When it comes to hair removal, waxing is one of the most popular methods out there. It can leave your skin smoother for longer periods than shaving, and it’s more effective at removing hair from the root. However, even the most skilled waxing professionals can miss a spot here and there. If this happens, you might be wondering whether it’s okay to shave those missed hairs after waxing. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about the topic.
Can you shave missed hairs after waxing?
The short answer is: it depends. There are a few things to consider before you grab your razor and start shaving away.
How long after waxing can you shave missed hairs?
It’s recommended that you wait at least 24 to 48 hours after waxing before you attempt to shave any missed hairs. This is because waxing can leave your skin irritated and sensitive, and you want to give it time to calm down before you introduce another hair removal method.
What kind of hair can you shave after waxing?
If you’ve only recently started waxing, you might be surprised to learn that not all hairs are created equal when it comes to waxing. Coarse, thick hair is more difficult for wax to remove, which means it’s also more likely to be missed. Fine hair, on the other hand, is more easily removed by wax and less likely to be left behind. If you have coarse hair, you might find that you need to wait longer before shaving any missed hairs.
What happens if you shave too soon after waxing?
If you shave too soon after waxing, you risk irritating your skin even further. This can cause redness, bumps, and even ingrown hairs. Additionally, if you’re using a razor, you’re essentially introducing bacteria to your freshly-waxed skin, which can lead to infection.
What to do if you’ve missed hairs after waxing
If you’ve waited the appropriate amount of time after waxing and you’ve decided that you want to shave any missed hairs, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk of irritation.
Exfoliate first
Before you shave, it’s a good idea to exfoliate the area first. This will help to remove dead skin cells and any buildup of wax residue, which can make it easier for your razor to glide over your skin. Just be gentle and don’t use anything too abrasive, as your skin may still be sensitive from the waxing.
Apply a shaving cream or gel
When shaving after waxing, it’s important to use a shaving cream or gel to create a barrier between your skin and the razor. This will help to reduce the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs. Choose one that’s designed for sensitive skin and apply it generously to the area you want to shave.
Use a clean, sharp razor
Make sure that you’re using a clean, sharp razor when you shave after waxing. A dull razor will drag over your skin and increase the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs. Additionally, using a razor that’s been used before could introduce bacteria to your skin, which can lead to infection.
Be gentle
When shaving after waxing, it’s important to be gentle and not apply too much pressure. This will reduce the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs. Use slow, short strokes and don’t go over the same area more than once.
The bottom line
If you’ve missed hairs after waxing, it’s generally okay to shave them, as long as you follow the appropriate precautions. Be sure to wait at least 24 to 48 hours after waxing, exfoliate first, use a shaving cream or gel, and be gentle when shaving. Additionally, it’s important to note that shaving after waxing is not recommended for those with sensitive skin or a history of ingrown hairs.
FAQs
- Is it safe to shave the same day after waxing?
- No, it’s not recommended to shave the same day after waxing. It’s best to wait at least 24 to 48 hours to allow your skin to calm down after waxing.
- Can I use an electric razor instead of a manual razor to shave missed hairs after waxing?
- Yes, you can use an electric razor to shave missed hairs after waxing. However, like with a manual razor, it’s important to wait at least 24 to 48 hours after waxing before using the electric razor.
- What should you do if you experience irritation or ingrown hairs after shaving missed hairs after waxing?
- If you experience irritation or ingrown hairs after shaving missed hairs, it’s important to give your skin a break and avoid using any further hair removal methods until it has healed. You can also apply a soothing lotion or cream to the area to reduce redness and irritation.
References
- “How Long After Waxing Can I Shave? Tips to Avoid Irritation” Healthline.
- “How to Safely Shave After Waxing” Elle.
- “Everything You Need To Know About Shaving After Waxing” Huffington Post.