Best techniques for underarm & armpit hair removal

How (and why) we choose to remove armpit hair is an age-old discussion. There’s nothing wrong with growing things out — but if you want to keep things smooth, the question becomes: what’s the best way to remove armpit hair as comfortably as possible?

We’ve got some easy underarm waxing and cream tips to share. But first, let’s explore the science behind armpit hair and why you may or may not want it around.

WHY DO WE HAVE ARMPIT HAIR?

Though some people choose to go natural, armpit hair is still something many people decide they don’t want. But why do we all grow hair under our arms in the first place?

Amongst other theories, studies show that over time, armpit hair helped reduce the friction between our arm and body and also helped with temperature regulation.[1] That would make a lot of sense, especially back when humans lived more primitive lives.

Science is one thing. But there is also a long-held perception that femininity and athleticism are associated with a smooth underarm. We don’t think that’s fair, but it has caused a lot of people to make a routine out of shaving or waxing their armpits.

Let’s face it: when it comes to talking about unwanted hair, legs are an area that is talked about quite freely — but sometimes it can be seen as taboo to talk about more private parts of our body, like armpits. But no matter your choice, there’s absolutely nothing to be ashamed of.

UNDERARM SKIN SENSITIVITY

The underarms can be a sensitive area, which is why we should be careful when choosing how to remove hair from this area. Shaving is the most common form of hair removal. However, if you intend to have hair-free armpits, all day, every day, then shaving probably isn’t the best option for you. Shaving only cuts across the hair, giving short-term results of up to two days.[2] On top of that, repeated use of a razor could cause irritation.[3]

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR UNDERARM HAIR

A different short-term solution to shaving is our Veet depilatory creams. These hair removal creams are suitable for sensitive skin and are perfect for your pits. By dissolving the protein in the hair just below the surface of the skin, you are able to wash away the residue and hair easily. Although results may be short-term, they last longer than shaving. Just be sure to start with a patch-test on a smaller area of skin to determine your sensitivity^*.

Waxing is another effective form of epilation, which means it removes hair from the root. You can have smooth underarms for up to four weeks, pulling out the hair entirely with Veet wax. Choose Veet wax strips for an easy home hair removal solution, or warm wax for longer-lasting, professional results you can easily achieve on your own^*.

HOW TO ACHIEVE PERFECT UNDERARM HAIR REMOVAL RESULTS

It’s also worth keeping these tips in mind to achieve perfect results:

Before using, patch-test on a small area of your skin that you wish to treat*. Follow all the instructions for best results and if there isn’t an adverse reaction within 24 hours, you can continue to use the product.

Development times for our hair removal creams vary depending on the product variant. Cream for normal and dry skin takes 3 to 6 minutes to work, while our hair removal cream for sensitive skin takes 5 to 10 minutes. Be sure to follow the pack instructions carefully, making a note of the specific development time.

If you are using wax strips, you can even cut them to size for those harder to reach or more delicate areas. Hair grows in two different directions under your arms, so remember that you need to apply the product in two different stages for each direction of hair growth.

No one wants to deal with ingrown hairs! Exfoliate 24 hours before using Veet and wear loose clothing after to help avoid them from developing.

To maintain beautiful underarms and avoid irritation, don’t use scented products (like deodorants), go swimming, sunbathe or use a tanning bed for at least 24 hours after hair removal.

NO MATTER WHAT, ALWAYS LOVE YOUR PITS!

Attitudes are always changing when it comes to beauty and fashion trends, and the same is true of hair removal products. Whether you grow it, dye it, or go for the smooth and silky look, the healthiest thing you can do is to always love yourself and your body.

^*Read label before use

[1] http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2014/06/still-pubic-armpit-hair/

[2] http://www.veet.co.uk/

[3] http://fustany.com/en/beauty/skincare/pros-and-cons-of-shaving-body-hair