In some cultures, armpit hair is considered unattractive. That's the reason why many women want smooth and hair-free armpits. Some methods for removing armpit hair such as shaving and the use of wax (waxing) are well known and widely practiced, but other methods such as the use of hair removal creams and lasers may not be widely known by some women who desire hair-free armpits.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Shaving the Armpits
Step 1. Use a sharp shaver
Shaving with a dull razor can cause scratches or cuts on the skin because you press harder to get a more effective shave. A dull razor rubs against the skin harder and irritates it. Use a sharp, new, good quality shaver. A single-blade disposable razor may not be the best option. Try a shaver with at least 3 blades.
Look for a razor that will allow you to change the blade range. Usually the prices offered on the internet are cheaper than the prices in drug stores. This option is much more profitable for those who need a new razor sharp every week
Step 2. Apply a layer of shaving cream or soap
You need to lubricate the razor so that when the blade moves over the skin it doesn't scratch or cut. Use shaving cream or soap to help you. However, soap or shaving cream will build up on the blades, so you'll need to rinse them every single stroke. Thus, the blade is not clogged and works less effectively.
- You can also try a little hair conditioner instead of shaving cream or soap. Conditioner can also work effectively.
- If your underarm hair is low, you'll need to apply more cream, soap, or conditioner to protect your skin. However, one thin layer is usually sufficient.
Step 3. Shave from all directions
Unlike shaving other parts of the body, shaving the armpits needs to be done from all directions. Shave from top, bottom, side to side to remove unwanted hair. Shaving cream or soap will help you see where you've shaved so you don't miss any.
Be careful when shaving, and don't press too hard. Gently grip the shaver to prevent scratches and cuts
Step 4. Apply moisturizer after shaving
Some deodorants and antiperspirants contain moisturizers that can help soothe the skin after shaving. Use one of them. Or, you can apply a thin layer of moisturizing cream or light lotion. Try products made especially for sensitive skin as they are more suitable for underarms.
You may have to try a few different routines after shaving until you find a method that works best for you. For example, if deodorant or antiperspirant isn't enough to make your skin feel good, try applying a moisturizer. Or, if moisturizer irritates your skin, try using an antiperspirant or deodorant instead
Step 5. Consider shaving your armpits in the shower
Some people prefer to shave their armpits in the sink rather than in the bathroom, while others do it while showering. Actually, it's just a matter of choice and convenience. However, shaving the armpits in the shower has its advantages. Underarm hair that is wet in warm water for a while will become softer and easier for you to shave without causing irritation.
If you prefer to shave your underarms in the sink, try soaking your underarm hair with warm water and letting it sit for a while before applying shaving cream or soap. This step is better than wetting your armpits and then immediately applying cream or soap
Method 2 of 4: Removing Armpit Hair with Waxing
Step 1. Make sure the length of the armpit hair is at least 0.5 cm
In order for the wax to stick to all the hair in the armpits, the length of the hair must be at least 0.5 cm so that you can remove all the hair with the waxing method perfectly. If the hair is too short, wait a few days before trying waxing methods. Trim hair that is more than 2.5 cm long so that there are no complications or difficulties when waxing.
If the armpit hair is very long, the hair removal process will be more painful. Trimming armpit hair that is too long before waxing can help reduce pain
Step 2. Exfoliate before waxing
Use a gentle exfoliating scrub, or use a washcloth to exfoliate your underarms. This will remove pore-clogging dirt and help prevent ingrown hairs when you're ready to wax.
Try making your own exfoliating scrub by mixing a tablespoon of baking soda and enough mineral water to make a runny paste. Use your fingertips or a washcloth to gently rub the paste on your underarms, then rinse with warm water
Step 3. Make sure the armpits are dry
Wax will not work optimally if applied to wet skin. Before applying the wax, make sure the armpits are completely dry. Do not let there be remnants of water from the exfoliation process, or sweat. You can even sprinkle a little baby powder on your armpits to make sure your armpits are completely dry.
A little baby powder or talcum powder can also help reduce some of the pain from waxing. So, even if your armpits are dry, consider sprinkling the powder lightly for your convenience
Step 4. Follow the instructions on the waxing product you choose
Some waxing products can be applied cold or at room temperature, while others must be warmed before use. Whatever product you use, follow all the directions on the bottle or box. That way, the product can work optimally.
You should stretch your arms above your head so that the skin in your armpits is pulled as tight as possible. This movement will help you apply the waxing cloth evenly over the entire surface of the armpit, and ensure that all the hair is removed
Step 5. Apply lotion or gel after waxing
After the waxing process is complete, you should make the underarm skin feel comfortable. You can use a regular moisturizer, if you can choose a product with soothing ingredients like aloe vera. Or, you can use a product made specifically to apply after waxing. Such products can be purchased at drug stores. This product not only makes the skin feel comfortable after waxing, but also helps protect the follicles that have just undergone the waxing process from infection or irritation.
After the waxing process is complete or before applying any cream or gel, you can also apply an ice cube to your freshly shaved skin. Ice can numb the skin and make it feel comfortable as soon as the waxing process is complete you don't have to experience unnecessary pain
Method 3 of 4: Using Hair Removal Cream
Step 1. Make sure you are not allergic to the cream
Some people with sensitive skin may experience an allergic reaction to the chemicals in depilatory creams, or hair removal creams. To make sure the cream doesn't cause you any allergies, apply a small amount on the skin. Try rubbing it on your ankles or arms. If you don't get any reaction after a while you apply the product to your skin, it means you are safe to use it.
- Skin redness, rash, or intense itching are signs of an allergic reaction.
- Always check the warning labels and ingredient lists on any leather products before using them.
Step 2. Use a depilatory cream made especially for sensitive skin
Because underarm skin is very sensitive, choose a product that is specifically labeled and made for sensitive skin. Several brands of hair removal creams offer creams specifically for the underarms and bikini area. You can try one of these creams. This kind of cream will reduce the risk of skin irritation when used.
Even if you choose a product specifically for sensitive skin, it never hurts to do an allergy test before using it
Step 3. Wash and dry the skin before applying the cream
Make sure your skin is free of lotion, deodorant, antiperspirant or natural skin oils when you apply the cream. This step ensures that there is no barrier between the cream and the skin. Use a mild soap when washing your underarms to ensure that your skin is free of all skin products and natural skin oils.
You also need to make sure there are no cuts to the skin where the cream will be applied. The wound can cause pain so it is very uncomfortable
Step 4. Apply the cream so that it forms a thick layer
Do not rub the cream into the skin. Instead, apply the cream to your skin and make sure all the hair you want to remove is covered in cream. Apply a thick enough layer of cream to cover the entire area. Cream packaging is usually equipped with a special spatula to spread and lift the cream. Use it. Alternatively, you can use a wooden tongue depressor or put on plastic gloves and use your hands.
You can spread the cream out with your bare hands, but you should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water once you're done applying it
Step 5. Follow all the instructions on the label
The label will indicate how long you need to let the cream sit on your skin before removing it, and you must follow the instructions carefully. Don't keep track of the time using memory, use a clock or timer to make sure you're sticking to the timeframe you're told. Leaving the cream on the skin longer can cause irritation.
Step 6. Remove the cream from the skin
Use the spatula that came with the cream, or a washcloth, to wipe and remove the cream from the skin. Use a downward motion. Make sure you apply a little pressure as you wipe the cream off your skin, as this will wash the cream and hair off at the same time. Rubbing the skin too hard can cause unnecessary irritation.
If you feel a negative reaction when applying the cream to your skin, wash it off immediately. A burning sensation, intense or painful itching, or a rash are signs of an allergic reaction. Even if you've done a patch test on other parts of your skin and haven't had any reactions, it's a good idea to wash off the cream if it causes a reaction when you use it
Step 7. Rinse and dry the skin
Use warm water and rinse the excess cream off the skin. Make sure all the cream is lifted from the skin. Make sure there are no residues of the cream that will cause skin irritation or a burning sensation from being left on for too long. You don't need to use soap, but if you feel you need to, go ahead. Or, if the directions on the label tell you to use soap when cleaning the cream, follow those directions.
Be careful not to rub the skin too vigorously with a washcloth or bath towel when rinsing off the cream. The skin may become a little more sensitive after applying the cream, and rubbing it can cause irritation
Step 8. Apply lotion after using hair removal cream
Some hair removal creams include a lotion to apply after applying the cream. If the cream you bought comes with a lotion, use it and apply generously. If the depilatory cream doesn't come with a lotion to use after application, you can use the light moisturizing lotion that comes with it. Consider using an unscented lotion to prevent unnecessary chemical additives from being applied to the skin.
Method 4 of 4: Consider Laser Hair Removal
Step 1. Remember that insurance will not cover this treatment
Since laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure, most (if not all) insurance companies will not cover this treatment under any policy. So, you have to spend your own money for this treatment. Laser hair removal can cost up to IDR 1 million per visit, or more, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Look for a hair removal specialist/clinic that offers installment facilities to pay for treatments over time. However, keep in mind that these installment facilities often come with additional interest and fees, and that late payments can affect your credit score
Step 2. Choose a reputable dermatologist/dermatologist
Laser hair removal must be performed by a certified dermatologist. You can check the Association of Dermatologists and Venereologists website to find a dermatologist near you. Consult a doctor before performing the procedure to find out the costs, possible negative side effects, and post-procedure care. Use the information you can to make sure that laser hair removal is the right choice for you.
Step 3. Please keep in mind that this treatment will take some time
For most people, it may take several sessions of laser treatment to remove hair for perfect results. Each treatment will cost money, it may take several months to get the desired results. If you want a faster method of removing hair, then shaving, waxing, and depilatory creams may be the best options for you.
Most people need 2-6 treatments, depending on how thick and rough the hair is to treat
Step 4. Consider possible side effects
Although the most likely side effects are redness and swelling, other side effects are possible. The skin may experience discoloration, for example lighter or darker, in the treated area. This discoloration is usually temporary, and will fade over time. There is also the possibility of scarring or even minor changes in skin texture.
