Many women choose to tidy up the feminine area by removing their hair. There are a variety of safe options to choose from, whether you want to prevent ingrown hairs, for cleaning, or for aesthetic reasons. For safe removal at home, try shaving, using a hair removal cream, or cold waxing. Or, if you want professional help, consider hot or laser waxing treatments.
Step
Method 1 of 5: Hair Removal by Shaving
Step 1. Decide what area you want to shave
You don't have to shave it all off. The choice is to shave only the bikini line (that is, the part that will show if you are wearing a bikini) or shave completely. Choose the right one according to you. For example, you may not want to shave the labia or the hair around the anus. Do whatever feels comfortable.
If you want, you can also create designs, such as triangles or rectangles
Step 2. Trim pubic hair before shaving
Don't cut too close to the skin as you could accidentally cut it. Use a small mirror to get a better view, and stop cutting when it gets too close to the skin. The goal is to shorten the long hair, not getting close to the roots.
Step 3. Take a warm bath for 5-10 minutes before shaving
Warm water can soften the skin and loosen the hair follicles, making shaving easier.
Step 4. Lightly exfoliate before shaving to prevent ingrown hairs
Choose a mild chemical exfoliant. Apply in small circular motions and rub gently for 30 seconds. Rinse with warm water.
Never exfoliate or shave if you have an open wound or if your skin is sunburned
Step 5. Apply shaving cream or gel
Be careful not to get the shaving cream into the vagina. Apply only on the outside of the labia, and repeat if necessary. Use a clear cream or gel to keep the hair visible.
- If you don't have cream, you can also use conditioner, though don't get used to it because conditioner doesn't have as much moisture as shaving cream.
- Do not use soap or shampoo in place of shaving cream.
Step 6. Use a sharp razor
Consider using a new blade head before shaving pubic hair. Choose a razor that is comfortable to use, and remember that the larger it is, the more difficult it is to maneuver.
For more comfort, consider using a razor with a moisturizing strip. The strips can make shaving easier and smoother
Step 7. Pull the skin with one hand
The hardest part about shaving pubic hair is the fact that the vaginal surface is not straight and flat. So, pull the skin flat with one hand, and then shave with your dominant hand.
Step 8. Move the razor in the direction of hair growth
This helps prevent ingrown hairs. Shave slowly and steadily, not in a hurry. Wash the razor to loosen the hair and make shaving easier.
Step 9. Wash skin when done
Wipe off the remaining shaving cream and hair that has come off. If you accidentally cut yourself while shaving, wipe off the blood too, and don't worry! A little wound is okay. However, seek medical help if seriously injured.
Step 10. Apply baby oil or aloe vera to moisturize the skin
Baby oil can also help keep the skin from breaking out, while aloe vera is better for sensitive skin. Apply a thin layer over the shaved area. Repeat if necessary.
Don't use aftershave or regular moisturizing lotion as they will sting
Method 2 of 5: Using Hair Removal Cream on Bikini Line
Step 1. Trim the pubic hair before applying the cream
Be careful when using the scissors and make sure you don't get hurt. Stop when the scissors feel close to the skin.
Step 2. Test a small amount of cream on the arm first
Before using a new substance or cream, it's a good idea to apply a small amount to an insensitive area. Use the skin on your arm or thigh to test if the cream causes excessive redness, pain, or other negative reactions. Do not use it on pubic hair if there is a negative reaction.
Wait 24 hours after the test, then apply the cream to the female area
Step 3. Do not apply cream on sensitive areas
If it doesn't cause a negative reaction, maybe the cream is safe to use for pubic hair. However, be careful not to get the cream into the vagina. Use the cream to remove the hair from the exterior of the vagina, and stay away from the labia area.
Step 4. Apply a thin layer of cream with the tool provided
Do it evenly, lest there are areas that are thicker. Follow the instructions on the package, and wash your hands afterward. Remember not to apply the cream on sensitive areas. For optimal effect, concentrate on the bikini line only.
If any cream gets into the labia, wash it off immediately
Step 5. Wait for the recommended time
The waiting time for each cream is different. Set an alarm and be ready to pick up the cream in time.
- Nair recommends removing the cream after 3–10 minutes.
- Veet recommends letting the cream sit for 5-10 minutes.
Step 6. Rinse in the shower
Turn on the faucet and wash the skin thoroughly. Use a towel or washcloth to clean. The hair will come off with the cream. If not, wait 24 hours and try again.
Method 3 of 5: Using a Cold Waxing Kit
Step 1. Purchase a home waxing kit
You can buy them online or in cosmetic stores. There is a single-use kit option and the pack contains multiple kits. Note that the kit for each body area is different. So make sure you buy a waxing kit for pubic hair.
The price of home waxing kits varies greatly, from 100 thousand to 500 thousand rupiah
Step 2. Cut the feathers first to about 0.5 cm
If the hair is too long, you may have a hard time plucking it out later, or you may be in pain from being pulled against the direction of its growth. If the bristles are too short, the waxing strip will not adhere properly and the process may fail.
You only need to cut the hair to be removed. Decide if you want to pluck the entire feminine area or just the bikini line
Step 3. Prevent ingrown hairs and reduce pain by exfoliating beforehand
Use a body scrub or exfoliating gloves to remove the layer of dead skin cells on the outside of the skin.
Step 4. Warm the strip between hands
Rub both hands on the strip to warm it with your body heat. This will help the strip to stick together more. Do not use the microwave or hot water, body heat is sufficient.
Step 5. Apply baby powder on the skin
Baby powder helps absorb moisture in the skin, and ensures the strips work properly.
Step 6. Pull the skin tight
This is very important because you will be pulling the strip off the skin. Use your non-dominant hand to stretch the skin as tightly as possible. You will feel a bit uncomfortable, but not too painful. Slowly if it really hurts.
Step 7. Stick the waxing strip in the direction of hair growth while pressing down
Make sure the strip is firmly attached. Rub a little to make sure all the corners are in place.
Step 8. Drag quickly
Don't be afraid of pain. Waxing is a pain, but if you pull too slowly, it won't be as efficient and you may have to do it again. Worse still, pulling slowly was even more painful. Imagine that you are removing a bandage, and pulling it off.
Try exhaling deeply to distract yourself from the pain
Step 9. Cool the skin with baby oil or aloe vera
If your skin is sensitive, aloe vera will be very soothing after waxing. Apply a thin layer and repeat if needed. Never use aftershave or regular moisturizer because it will sting and dry out the skin.
Method 4 of 5: Get Professional Waxing
Step 1. Do not shave three weeks before waxing
If you shave regularly and want to try professional waxing, skip three weeks of shaving for hair to grow. If you never shave, consider cutting it. The ideal length of the bristles for waxing is 0.5 cm.
Step 2. Decide what kind of waxing you want
There are two types of waxing, namely bikini (which removes hair from the top and sides of the vagina) and Brazilian (which removes hair all over the area). Decide how much hair you want to remove, and choose the right type of waxing.
If you are a beginner, don't start with Brazilian because it can be a pain. Instead, start with bikini waxing
Step 3. Find a salon you trust
Look for a beauty salon in your area. One of the easiest ways is to call the salon and ask if they provide waxing. Ask their practice, how they make sure all tools and materials are sterile and clean, and how much they cost.
Waxing prices vary depending on where you live, from 100 to 300 thousand rupiah
Step 4. Take painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs beforehand
Waxing is not a pain-free process although it is still bearable. Take a dose of painkiller in preparation. If you are unable to tolerate the pain, take another dose to take after the session. Do not exceed one standard dose before the process.
Step 5. Don't feel awkward
When waxing at a salon for the first time, you may be uncomfortable or nervous about having to undress from the waist down in front of strangers. However, there is nothing to worry about. The waxing therapist is very professional.
- If you still feel uncomfortable, try listening to music or audiobooks while the process is going on. It can help distract.
- If the therapist makes you uncomfortable or does something inappropriate, leave as soon as possible and report it to their manager or the police.
Step 6. Exhale as the waxing strip is withdrawn
Although still bearable, this process is painful. Try not to press on your teeth or tighten your muscles as this will increase the pain. Instead, focus on deep breathing and exhaling as the strip is pulled.
Some say that waxing after menstruation is not so painful
Step 7. Wear comfortable underwear and a loose skirt or pants
When finished, the area under there will be sore and the skin becomes sensitive. So, wear comfortable cotton underwear and a comfortable skirt or pants.
Avoid tight pants or underwear for a day afterward
Step 8. Exfoliate a week after the session
To keep the feminine area soft and prevent irritation or ingrown hairs, gently exfoliate one week after a loofah session.
Method 5 of 5: Laser Hair Removal
Step 1. Do not plan for the laser method if you have light-colored fur or dark skin
Laser is best used on light skin with dark hair. If the hair is too bright, the laser will not be able to find the hair follicle (which is how it works). If the skin is too dark, the laser may mistake the skin for hair follicles, and may injure or even burn the skin permanently.
Newer types of lasers, such as Nd:YAG, may work better for dark skin, but make sure you call the salon in question and confirm that they have an Nd:YAG laser
Step 2. Estimate the cost for the laser
The cost of laser hair removal depends on the bikini or Brazilian type. The cost of laser hair removal in the female area is an average of 500 thousand to 1 million rupiah.
Step 3. Do not wax 4 weeks before using the laser
The laser method requires that the hair follicles remain intact and within the skin, while waxing removes the hair follicles. Make sure your laser session is a success by refraining from waxing at least a month in advance.
Step 4. Shave (don't use cream) before the laser session
For a laser session to be successful, you will need to shave all the female hair the night before. Avoid using hair removal creams because the chemicals can interact and cause irritation or pain.
Step 5. Forget the awkwardness
You might be nervous or a little worried about having to undress from the waist down in front of strangers, but don't worry! Laser hair removal therapists are professionals. If you need to distract yourself from the awkwardness, focus on the sound of the laser being heard.
If the therapist does or says something inappropriate, end the session immediately and report it to his manager or the police
Step 6. Tell the therapist if you have intense pain
Laser hair removal methods generally feel like a gentle prick. If you experience intense pain or heat, ask the therapist to lower the laser intensity. Don't assume that lowering the intensity means lowering the value for your money. If you feel a prickling sensation, the device is working properly.
Step 7. Don't be surprised if the feathers fall out
The results of the laser method are not immediately visible. It will take about 2 weeks to see the effect, and before that, the hair will grow normally. After 2-3 weeks, the feathers will begin to shed. And at that point, you can shave.
Step 8. Get ready to do some maintenance
Laser hair removal methods require 1 to 10 treatments to get permanent results. The average treatment required is 6 times.
Warning
- If you are menstruating, be careful when shaving or removing pubic hair by waxing because at that time the female area is very sensitive.
- Always use clean tools and materials to avoid disease. Do not use old or rusty metal as it is dangerous for you.