In some cultures, women consider armpit hair unsightly. As a result, they try to keep this area smooth and hairless. Some hair removal methods, such as shaving and waxing, are known and widely used, while other options, such as hair removal creams and laser removal, are less well known.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Shave the Armpits with the Razor
Step 1. Use a sharp razor
Blunt razors can cause scratches or cuts during hair removal, as more pressure is put on them to do their job. They can therefore attack and irritate the skin. Use a sharp, new, good quality razor. Avoid disposable ones with a single blade. Instead, prefer one that has at least three blades.
You can find replacement blades online at a much lower price than in the supermarket. It is ideal for those who want to use a new, sharp razor every week
Step 2. Apply a layer of hair removal cream or soap
To prevent the razor from causing scratches or cuts, the skin should be lubricated before shaving, so use hair removal cream or soap to do this. Since the product will accumulate on the blade, you must rinse it after each stroke to prevent it from clogging and losing its effectiveness.
- You can also try using some hair conditioner instead of hair removal cream or soap. It is just as effective.
- The less hair you have in your armpits, the more cream, soap, or conditioner you'll need to apply to protect your skin. However, usually even a thin, but even layer is enough.
Step 3. Shave your armpits from all angles
Contrary to what happens with other parts of the body, to shave the armpits it is often necessary to pass the razor in all directions rather than just one. Shave them up, down and side to side to get rid of all unwanted hair. The depilatory cream or soap will help you see where you have already been razor sharp and not skip any parts.
Try not to exert too much pressure during hair removal. To avoid nicks and cuts, proceed gently
Step 4. Next, apply a moisturizer
Some antiperspirants and deodorants contain moisturizing ingredients that can soothe the skin after hair removal, so you can try one of these products. Alternatively, apply a thin layer of gentle moisturizer. Look for a specific one for sensitive skin, it would be preferable for the armpits.
It may be necessary to try different post-hair removal treatments to find the most suitable one. For example, if deodorants or antiperspirants aren't enough to soothe your skin, try applying a moisturizer. If the cream itself is too irritating, try using only an antiperspirant or deodorant
Step 5. Try to shave your armpits only in the shower
Some people shave them in the sink, others in the shower. It all depends on your preferences and needs. However, shaving in the shower has its advantages. After a few minutes, the hot water can soften the hair and facilitate hair removal, without irritation.
If you want to shave on the sink instead of in the shower, try to moisten your hair with hot water for a few minutes before applying the hair removal cream or soap, don't get it wet right away
Method 2 of 4: Waxing
Step 1. Make sure the hair is at least six millimeters long
Since the wax must adhere well to the hair, it needs to be long enough to use this method. If they are too short, wait a few more days before giving it a try. Trim any hair longer than three centimeters to prevent complications or difficulties when waxing.
If the hair is very long, waxing may be more painful than expected. Trimming extra long hair before shaving can help relieve the discomfort
Step 2. Before waxing, exfoliate your armpits with a scrub or simple sponge
It will get rid of the dirt nestled in the pores and help prevent ingrown hairs from appearing in preparation for hair removal.
Make a gentle scrub by mixing a tablespoon of baking soda and enough mineral water to make a smooth, even paste. Gently massage it into your armpits with your fingers or a sponge, then rinse with warm water
Step 3. Make sure your armpits are dry
If you apply the wax to damp skin, it will not be effective. Before proceeding with the application, the armpits should be completely dry, therefore without traces of water or sweat. You can also try applying baby powder.
Baby powder can also help slightly relieve the pain typically associated with waxing; therefore, although your armpits are dry, you can still apply a veil to proceed with greater comfort
Step 4. Follow the instructions on the product you have chosen for waxing
Some can be applied cold or at room temperature, others must be warmed up before use. In any case, follow all the instructions you find on the package, this way it will work at its best.
Raise your arm above your head and keep your armpit skin as taut as possible. This way, you will apply the strip evenly over the entire armpit and will be able to pull out all the hair
Step 5. Use a post-hair removal lotion or gel
Once you have waxed, you need to soothe the skin. You can use a normal moisturizer, perhaps one containing soothing ingredients like aloe. Alternatively, use a specific product. You can find them all in the supermarket. Not only do they soothe the skin, they also help protect the follicles from infection or further irritation.
Right after shaving and just before applying any creams or gels, try putting an ice cube on your skin. It will numb and soothe her instantly, so you don't feel any further pain
Method 3 of 4: Using Hair Removal Creams
Step 1. Make sure you are not allergic to the cream
Some sensitive skinned people may have allergic reactions to the chemicals found in hair removal creams. To make sure you don't have any problems, pat a small amount on your skin, for example on an ankle or arm. If you don't see any reaction after a few minutes, you should be able to use it safely.
- Redness, rash or intense itching are all symptoms of an allergic reaction.
- Always check the warnings and ingredient lists of any product before using it on the skin.
Step 2. Use a specific depilatory cream for sensitive skin
Since the armpits are particularly so, choose a product designed specifically for this type of skin. Some brands offer creams designed for underarms and bikini lines, so try one of these. You will reduce the risk of suffering from skin irritation when using the product.
While choosing a product for sensitive skin, it is still good to do a test before using it, in order to discard any allergies
Step 3. Wash and dry your skin before using the cream
Before proceeding with the application, you must make sure that you have no residues of creams, deodorants, antiperspirants or oily products. You will therefore be sure that there is no barrier between the product and the skin. Use a mild soap to remove all products and oils from the skin.
You also need to make sure that you don't have any cuts on the area where you will apply the cream. They can be extremely annoying and cause a burning sensation
Step 4. Apply the cream creating a thick layer
Make sure you don't rub it. Instead, pat it on your skin and make sure you cover any hair you want to remove. Use a layer thick enough to completely cover the area. The package may have a special spatula for application and removal, so use it. Alternatively, you can use a wooden tongue depressor or put on a plastic glove and apply it with your hand.
You can apply the cream with your bare hands, but you must wash them well with soap and water immediately after you are done
Step 5. Follow all instructions on the package
The label specifies how long to leave the cream on before removing it, so you should carefully follow all directions. Do not calculate the waiting time in mind: use a clock or a stopwatch, so as to leave it on for the necessary time. Prolonging the application could cause irritation.
Step 6. Remove the cream
Using the spatula you found in the package or a sponge, remove the cream by exerting a good pressure. Follow a downward motion. When removing the product, be sure to apply even pressure, so that both the cream and the hair are removed in one motion. Scrubbing could cause unnecessary irritation.
If you have an adverse reaction during the installation, remove the cream. Burning sensations, excessive itching or pain, and erythema are symptomatic of an allergic reaction. If the cream causes problems at the time of use, it is still good to remove it, despite having tested positive results on other points of the skin
Step 7. Rinse and dry the skin
Wipe off all excess with hot water and make sure you don't leave any residue. If it remains in contact with the skin for too long, you risk persistent irritation or burning. You don't need soap, but you can use it if you think that's the case. If the product instructions indicate that it is essential to eliminate the cream, use it as well.
When removing the cream using a sponge, try not to rub the skin too much. It is possible that the skin has become somewhat sensitized after using the product, so you risk irritating it
Step 8. Apply post-hair removal lotion
Some creams are sold together with a lotion that is put on at the end of the procedure. If you found this product in the package, apply a generous amount. If, on the other hand, you haven't found any lotion, you can use any one you have at home, the important thing is that it is gentle and moisturizing. Choose a fragrance-free one to avoid unnecessarily applying additional chemicals.
Method 4 of 4: Consider Laser Removal
Step 1. Remember that laser removal is not cheap
Since this is a cosmetic procedure, it is not covered by any health insurance or program, so you will have to pay for it out of your own pocket. It can cost up to 100 euros per session, if not more, depending on the area to be treated.
Some centers allow you to pay for the treatment in installments. Just remember that these financing options often come with interest rates and additional costs, so skipping a payment can have negative consequences
Step 2. Choose a good dermatologist
Laser removal should always be performed by a qualified professional. Be well informed to find a good one in your area. Before the procedure, have a visit to learn more about costs, possible side effects and post-hair removal care. Take advantage of this preliminary meeting to make sure laser hair removal is the right choice for you.
Step 3. Remember that this treatment takes some time
In most cases, it is necessary to undergo multiple sessions to get good results. Each session has to be paid for, not to mention that it could take months to reach your goal. If you are looking for a quicker solution, it is best to continue shaving with a razor, wax or cream.
Most people need two to six treatments, depending on the thickness and hardness of the coat
Step 4. Consider the possible side effects
The most likely are redness and swelling, but others may also occur. The skin in the affected area may undergo pigmentation changes, for example lightening or darkening. This is usually a temporary effect and the situation will resolve itself. It is also possible that scars or slight changes in the texture of the skin may occur.
