When it comes to hair removal methods, there are quite a few to choose from, each one with its advantages and disadvantages.
Some last longer, others need to be done on a more regular basis, and there is everything in between.
Pain is something to consider, as well as which area of the body each method is suitable for.
The two most common hair removal methods are waxing and shaving. While waxing lasts a lot longer, it’s known to be a bit painful.
And while shaving needs to be done often, it’s easy and fast. But which one is best? Is waxing better than shaving?
Well, ultimately, it will depend on your own personal opinion and preference, as it is not the same for everybody. You need to consider what works best for you, and which pros and cons matter.
But just to get a general idea of the differences, pros, and cons, and the overall verdict…let’s take a more in-depth look at both!
What is the difference between waxing and shaving?
With waxing, hot wax is laid onto the hair that you want to be removed, left to dry for a few seconds, and then pulled off, bringing the hair with it. It essentially pulls the hair out from the roots.
With shaving, on the other hand, a small razor blade is used to go over the hair, trimming it as close to the skin as possible. So it essentially removes the hair on the surface of the skin but leaves the roots intact.
But let’s take a look at some of the other main differences between both methods:
1. The tools needed:
- Waxing:
Waxing requires some wax and some strips. Most often, people that wax will either buy pre-waxed straps or they will go to a beauty salon to get waxed by a professional. However, you can also make your own wax at home.
- Shaving:
Shaving is done with the use of razors. Most are pretty much the same, but you can get reusable ones, in which you simply change the blades every now and then, or single-use ones.
2. The process:
- Waxing:
Waxing is a longer process, and it depends on the type of wax you are using. But you have to warm the wax up, place it on the area of skin where there is hair you want to be removed, and then wait until it cools down before removing it.
It’s a little more complicated than shaving.
- Shaving:
Shaving is a far easier and simpler process, which is why it is also one of the most common in day-to-day life.
Some choose to use a shaving cream or gel to make the process smoother, and then it’s all about simply scraping your skin with the razor to remove the hair.
3. Suitable areas and pain levels:
- Waxing:
Waxing can be done in any area of the body. As for pain, it is moderate to high. (Some areas are more painful than others).
- Shaving:
Shaving can be done in large areas of the body, like for example legs or armpits. As for pain, it is minimal to none.
4. Side effects:
- Waxing:
Waxing has a few more side effects, as you are removing the hair from the root, which is a more aggressive method.
Some of the main side effects are pain, redness, irritation, bumps, rash, infection, ingrown hair, allergic reaction to the wax, burns, or scarring.
- Shaving:
Shaving does not have as many side effects, as it is a gentler method. And any side effects can also be reduced with the use of shaving cream. But the main side effects are itching, cuts, razor burn, folliculitis, and ingrown hairs.
5. How long it lasts for:
The amount of time that the results last can vary from person to person, and how fast your hair grows. But on average:
- Waxing:
Waxing, on average, will last between 3 to 4 weeks.
- Shaving:
Shaving, on average, will last between 3 to 7 days.
6. The average cost:
- Waxing:
On average, waxing will cost between $50 and $70 when done via an appointment. And it will cost between $20 and $30 for at-home waxing kits to do it yourself.
- Shaving:
On average, disposable razors will cost less than $10. However, an electric razor will cost around $50 or more, and it can then be reused many times.
Pros and cons of waxing:
Waxing has advantages and disadvantages, here are some of the main few to consider:
PROS:
- The results last a good amount of time
- As it removes hair from the root, it leaves the skin feeling smoother
- Over time, hair grows back weaker and weaker, making waxing easier
- It exfoliates the skin, as it also removes any dead cells with the wax
CONS:
- It takes effort and time
- It is more expensive than other methods
- It is one of the most painful methods of hair removal
Pros and cons of shaving:
Shaving has advantages and disadvantages, here are some of the main few to consider:
PROS:
- It is fast and easy
- Very accessible and cheap
- Minimal pain
- Fewer side effects than with other hair removal methods
CONS:
- Hair grows back stronger
- The results don’t last very long
- Frequent shaving leads to skin irritation
Is waxing better than shaving?
Now that we’ve taken a look at all of the main differences, along with the different advantages and disadvantages of both waxing and shaving, which one is better?
As we said at the beginning, the answer depends on your own individual preferences and necessities.
Not everyone has the same experience, and factors such as the amount of pain can vary significantly from person to person.
Waxing is more expensive but lasts longer. Some people find it very painful, others don’t mind it at all. The main pro is that hair will grow back weaker every time, so the process should get easier and easier.
Shaving is the go-to method for most people, as it is easy and fast, highly convenient, and cheap.
However, the results only last a week or less, and if done frequently it can lead to skin irritation.
