Waxing Armpits: Your 101 Guide to Underarm Waxing

Waxing Armpits: Your 101 Guide to Underarm Waxing

Laura Laura
7 minute read

Listen to article
Audio generated by DropInBlog's Blog Voice AI™ may have slight pronunciation nuances. Learn more

We’ve all been there, standing in front of the mirror, contemplating another round in the never-ending battle against underarm hair. It’s time to take back your underarms and say goodbye to the prickly drama. Let’s talk options, and waxing looks like an obvious one.

Waxing isn’t just about hair removal; it’s about self-care and confidence. Whether you’re a waxing newbie or a pro, this is your backstage pass to the world of underarm smoothness. 

We’ll give you the lowdown on everything from prep to post-wax pampering so you can show off your fresh pits with pride. Let’s get started!

Knowing About Underarm Hair and Waxing

Underarm hair can be a tricky business. Unlike the relatively simple patterns on your legs, underarm hair grows in multiple directions, making removal a challenge. This is where waxing comes in.

When it comes to wax, you’ve got choices. Hard wax is like a magic self-adhesive sticker that grips the hair without sticking to the skin, perfect for sensitive areas. Soft wax requires cloth strips for removal and is used for larger areas. 

Wax strips are pre-waxed for convenience but might not be as effective for stubborn underarm hair. So, why wax? Well, unlike shaving, which only trims the hair at the surface, waxing pulls the hair out from the root, so you get smoother skin for longer. 

It can also lead to finer hair growth over time. And goodbye to razor burn and ingrown hairs! But let’s get one thing straight. Waxing isn’t torture. Yes, it might be a little uncomfortable, but it’s usually more bearable than you think. 

And no, waxing doesn’t make hair grow back thicker or darker – that’s just a myth. Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so what works for one person won’t work for another. Try out the waxing method that works best for your underarms.

Preparing for Your First Wax

Getting ready for your first wax can feel daunting, but with the right prep, you can minimize discomfort and maximize results. Let's break down the essential steps to ensure a smoother experience.

Hair Length

For best results, your underarm hair should be ¼ to ½ inch long. This is usually about 2 weeks of growth after shaving. Hair that’s too short won’t be caught by the wax, and hair that’s too long can be more painful to remove.

Skin Care

  • Moisturize: Keep your underarms moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer. This will help prevent dryness and discomfort during waxing.
  • Avoid Irritants: Don’t use deodorants, perfumes, or other harsh products in the area for at least 24 hours before your wax. These can irritate your skin and make the waxing process more uncomfortable.

Exfoliation

Exfoliating the day before your wax is key. It helps remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating gloves in circular motions. Don’t exfoliate the day of the wax, as it can irritate your skin.

Soothe Those Nerves

Waxing isn’t painless, but there are ways to minimize the discomfort:

  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen an hour before your appointment, and you’ll be less sensitive.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music will help you relax and distract yourself during the waxing process.

Everyone’s pain threshold is different. What’s a walk in the park for one person is a struggle for another. Take a break if you need to.

Waxing Your Way

You've got two main paths to choose from: the professional salon experience or the DIY route at home. Let's weigh the pros and cons of each.

DIY Waxing: If you’re feeling brave, at-home waxing is an option. Just make sure to follow the instructions and always prioritize safety. Start with a small area to test your technique.

Professional Waxing: For first-timers or those who want a more relaxing experience, a salon is the way to go. A professional knows how to handle the wax and the skin, so it’s a smoother, less painful process.

Waxing Wisdom

Here are a few key tips to master the art of waxing. Always apply the wax in the direction of hair growth for maximum coverage. When removing the wax, pull the strip quickly in the opposite direction of hair growth while holding the skin taut to minimize ouch. 

For best results, apply a thin, even layer of wax and work in small sections at a time. Remember, reusing wax can irritate your skin, so use fresh wax each time.

After Wax Routine

Aftercare is key for smooth, happy underarms. After waxing, cool the area with an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to reduce redness and inflammation. Keep the area clean and dry, and don’t touch it too much.

To prevent ingrown hairs gentle exfoliation a few days after waxing is a must. Moisturizing regularly also helps to keep skin hydrated and prevent ingrown hairs. For long-term smoothness continue with regular waxing and good skin hygiene. But it can happen. 

Look out for redness, swelling, pus, or fever. If you see any of these get to a dermatologist ASAP.

Waxing Tips and Tricks

  • Timing is Everything: It’s a myth that waxing during your period is more painful, but some women find their skin more sensitive during this time. Try it out and see what works for you.
  • Sensitive Skin Solutions: If you have sensitive skin, go for hard wax; it’s less likely to irritate. Always do a patch test before trying a new product and consider using a numbing cream before waxing.
  • Maintain Your Magic: To extend your wax results, exfoliate regularly to prevent ingrown hairs. Don’t wear tight clothing, and don’t sweat too much after waxing.
  • DIY or Buy?: If you choose a DIY waxing kit, look for one that has pre-waxed strips or hard wax beads. Check the ingredients for your skin type, and always read the instructions.

Waxing vs. IPL: Which is Right for You?

Waxing is a classic hair removal method that gives instant results. It’s effective in removing hair from the root, but it’s painful and time-consuming and the results are temporary.

On the other hand, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) technology like the INIA HAUTE IPL Hair Removal Device gives a longer term solution. By targeting the hair follicles with light energy, IPL reduces hair growth over time.

It may take several sessions to see the optimal results but it’s generally less painful than waxing. IPL devices like the INIA HAUTE and INIA FOND are convenient for home use, so you can treat unwanted hair at your own pace. 

These devices come with adjustable intensity levels and a focus on safety. They offers a user-friendly and effective solution for long-lasting hair reduction.

Ultimately, the best method depends on your pain tolerance, time commitment, and desired outcome.

Conclusion

Now, you’re all set to have a smooth and successful underarm waxing experience! From understanding hair growth and waxing techniques to post-wax care, you’re ready to have silky, confident underarms. Remember the key is preparation, proper technique, and aftercare. 

If you’re looking for a long-term solution with less maintenance consider looking into alternatives like the INIA HAUTE IPL Hair Removal Device. It’s a convenient and less painful way to reduce hair growth over time from the comfort of your own home.

INIA HAUTE IPL Hair Removal Device

INIA HAUTE IPL Hair Removal Device

$139.99 $269.99

Hair Root Elimination Salon smooth skin in 4 weeks. Our advanced IPL technology penetrates deep to permanently damage hair follicles for lasting smoothness. Experience up to 86.6% hair reduction after 12 weekly sessions. The ultimate at-home alternative to expensive laser… More Information

« Back to Blog