Getting a Brazilian wax can be an intense experience. The process removes all hair from the bikini area, leaving you feeling smooth and bare down there. While the results can be amazing, regrowth in between regular waxes can cause irritation, ingrown hairs, and an itchy sensation. This leads many to wonder – what happens if you shave in between Brazilian waxes? Is it okay, or will it mess up your waxing schedule?
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at shaving between Brazilians. We’ll cover what experts say about the safety and effects of shaving, how it impacts waxing results, timing issues, proper techniques to reduce irritation, and aftercare recommendations. Read on for the complete guide to shaving between Brazilian waxes!
Table of Contents
Is It Okay to Shave Between Brazilian Wax Appointments?
The first question many have is simply – can you shave between regular Brazilian waxes? Or will it somehow sabotage the hair removal process?
The short answer is yes – it is perfectly safe to shave between Brazilian wax appointments. Estheticians and dermatologists agree that there are no negative effects or risks from properly shaving between waxes. It will not impact the efficacy of waxing or cause problems down the line.
However, there are some caveats. Proper shaving techniques and aftercare must be followed to prevent issues like ingrown hairs and razor bumps. Timing around when you shave versus your next wax is also important to get the best results.
But overall – shaving between Brazilians is A-okay as long as some basic guidelines are followed!
Expert Opinions
Dermatologists and estheticians agree that shaving between waxes is generally fine:
- Shaving does not “disturb the hair growth cycle” or alter waxing effectiveness in the future. Hair regrows at the same rate whether you shave or not.
- The abrasive nature of shaving does not damage hair follicles or pores in a way that prevents waxing.
- As long as proper techniques are followed, shaving should not increase irritation or ingrown hairs.
The key according to experts is to take a gentle approach – don’t aggressively over-shave, use a high quality razor, shave in the direction of hair growth, and properly care for skin afterwards.
Some also recommend avoiding shaving 2-3 days pre and post-wax to allow time for irritation to settle. As long as you shave judiciously in between, it should not pose any problems.
How Shaving Impacts Your Brazilian Wax Results
While shaving is okay on its own, it can impact the results you see from your Brazilian wax if done too soon before an appointment. Here’s a look at how shaving may affect waxing outcomes:
Length
Wax adheres best to hair that is at least 1/4 inch long. If you shave too soon before a wax, the remaining stubble may be too short for the wax to grip effectively. This can cause the wax to be less successful at pulling hair from the root.
Efficiency
Longer hair comes out easier and in one go with waxing. Very short, freshly shaven stubble may require going over the same area multiple times to fully remove it. This can lead to more skin irritation.
Sensation
Waxing shorter hairs can be more painful and cause more inflammation. With longer hair the pain sensation is focused more around the follicle. Shorter stubble puts all sensation directly on the skin, increasing discomfort.
Regrowth
Shaving cuts hair bluntly at the skin’s surface. Waxing pulls it from the root for longer-lasting results. Shaving too soon before can reduce how long waxing results last.
So in summary – shaving can make waxing less efficient, more painful, and shorter lasting if not timed properly!
How Long to Wait Between Shaving and a Brazilian Wax
To avoid the issues above, you’ll want to strategize when to shave versus wax:
Ideally:
- Shave 3-4 days after a wax, when hair is still mostly smooth and minimal regrowth has occurred.
- Allow at least 1 week of hair growth before your next wax appointment.
This allows enough time for the shaved hair to grow in adequately for your next wax, but prevents having to deal with excessive length right after a wax.
At minimum:
- Wait at least 3 days after waxing to shave.
- Wait at least 3-4 days of growth after shaving before your next wax.
This tighter timeline can work, but may produce less ideal results. Speak to your esthetician about what they recommend for timing between hair removal sessions.
Pro Tips for Shaving Between Brazilian Waxes
Once you know it’s safe to shave between waxes, how do you go about it? Follow these pro tips for the best results:
Use a fresh, high-quality razor.
Dull razors cause more irritation, tugging, and nicks. spring for a top of the line razor and replace the blades frequently.
Take a warm shower first.
The heat and moisture will soften skin and hair for easier, safer shaving.
Use a shaving cream or gel.
Lathering up protects skin and allows the blade to glide smoothly. Apply to wet skin and reapply as needed.
Shave in the direction of hair growth.
Shaving against the grain increases ingrown hairs. Gently shave in the same direction as hair growth.
Rinse blade frequently.
Prevent buildup of shaving cream, hair, and dead skin on the razor for a closer shave.
Moisturize after.
Soothe freshly shaved skin with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer post-shave.
Avoid tight clothing.
Tight clothes can chafe freshly shaven skin. Opt for loose cotton underwear and clothes.
Wait to apply products with actives.
Hold off on products like benzoyl peroxide or alpha hydroxy acids until skin calms, as they can sting.
Watch for signs of irritation.
Discontinue shaving if you see redness, bumps, rash, or itching. Allow skin to heal before attempting again.
Aftercare Tips for Shaving Between Brazilians
Post-shave care is crucial for avoiding problems like ingrown hairs and razor bumps:
Exfoliate regularly.
Use a gentle scrub or brush to remove dead skin and free trapped hairs. Just don’t overdo it.
Use Tend Skin or witch hazel.
These products contain anti-inflammatories that can prevent ingrowns. Apply to clean skin daily.
Try a salicylic acid body wash.
The BHA helps keep pores clear of debris to reduce ingrowns. Use a few times per week.
Apply hydrocortisone cream to itchy spots.
The OTC anti-itch cream soothingly reduces inflammation. Dab onto affected areas.
Use a benzoyl peroxide acne spot treatment.
The antimicrobial properties help bumps and pimples. Dot onto breakouts as needed.
Try an ingrown hair serum with glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant that unblocks follicles. Massage into problem areas daily.
Wear loose, breathable fabrics.
Avoid clothes that rub or constrict freshly shaven skin. Cotton underwear is best.
See a dermatologist if issues persist.
For chronic or severe cases of ingrown hairs/razor bumps, see your dermatologist.
With diligent aftercare, you can safely shave between Brazilian waxing and enjoy smooth, stubble-free skin!
Precautions When Shaving Between Waxes
While shaving between waxes is generally fine, take these precautions:
- Avoid if you have sensitive skin prone to shaving irritation.
- Do not shave over moles or raised lesions.
- Stop if you experience skin irritation, rashes, or injury.
- See a doctor for painful lumps, oozing pustules, or signs of infection.
- Carefully shave around the labia as the skin is delicate.
- Do not share razors to prevent transmission of infections.
- Discontinue if hair removal causes you emotional distress.
It’s okay to forego shaving if it does not work for your body. Other options like trimming or depilatory creams can tide you over between waxes instead.
Which Shaving Techniques Cause the Most Irritation?
While shaving between waxes is generally low risk, certain techniques provoke more irritation:
Aggressive Pressure
Pressing too firmly with the razor aggravates skin and causes nicks and cuts. Allow the blade to glide lightly over the skin.
Too Frequent Shaving
Over-shaving does not allow skin to recover, leading to redness and bumps. Limit to a few times per week maximum.
Dull Blades
A dull razor requires more passes and pressure, irritating skin. Replace cartridge blades frequently for a close, smooth shave.
Harsh Products
Foams and gels with dyes, fragrance, and alcohol can provoke stinging and breakouts. Use sensitive skin formulations.
Acne Actives
Products with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide can burn freshly shaved skin. Avoid until skin calms.
Shaving Against The Grain
This causes hairs to be cut off below skin level, resulting in painful ingrown hairs. Always shave in the direction of hair growth.
Alternative Hair Removal Options Between Brazilians
If shaving proves too irritating between regular waxes, consider alternatives like:
Depilatory Creams
These work similarly to shaving, but use chemicals instead of a blade to dissolve hair. Results last about the same amount of time as shaving.
Epilation Devices
Epilators remove hair by mechanically grasping and pulling it out. Results can last up to 3-4 weeks because hair is removed at the root.
Laser Hair Removal
This permanent method uses laser energy to destroy hair follicles. Multiple treatments are needed, but can provide long-term hair reduction between waxes.
Professional Body Sugaring
Sugaring pastes cling to hair, not skin, resulting in less irritation for sensitive areas. Results last about the same as waxing.
Chemical Depilatories
This clinical treatment applies a hair removal product, often containing calcium hydroxide. It dissolves hair just below the skin’s surface.
Bleaching Creams
While not true hair removal, bleaching dark bikini hairs can make them less noticeable between waxes or shaves.
Trimming
Using a bikini trimmer or small scissors to snip hairs down can tidy up between waxes if hair removal irritates.
FAQs About Shaving Between Brazilians
Still have questions about shaving between Brazilian waxes? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Does shaving make waxing less effective?
No, shaving does not alter the hair growth cycle or make waxing less effective. As long as there is enough regrowth for wax to adhere to, shaving in between is fine.
How soon after waxing can I shave?
Wait 2-3 days after waxing to allow any irritation to settle before shaving. Shaving too soon after can be painful.
Should I shave right before a wax?
No, hair needs to be at least 1/4 inch long for waxing. Shave too soon before and the wax will not adhere well.
Is shaving or waxing better?
Waxing lasts longer (3-6 weeks), but shaving between waxes can keep you smooth. Do whatever causes you the least irritation.
Why do I get ingrown hairs after shaving?
Cutting hair at the skin level can cause it to curl back and get trapped beneath the surface, resulting in red, painful ingrowns.
How can I prevent razor bumps?
Exfoliating regularly, shaving gently in the direction of hair growth, and using aftercare products like Tend Skin helps prevent bumps and ingrowns.
Can I use a male razor for shaving my bikini area?
Yes, men’s razors often provide a closer shave suitable for the bikini line. Just replace the blade frequently.
The Takeaway
Shaving between regular Brazilian waxes is safe and effective when done properly. Allow enough regrowth after shaving for optimal waxing results. Use high quality razors, shave gently in the direction of hair growth, and care for skin afterwards to prevent irritation. While waxing lasts longer, strategic shaving in between keeps bikini hair at bay!
