How to Depilate
There are a number of methods available to depilate, or remove hair from the body. These include shaving, waxing, applying creams and powders, sugaring and tweezing. The right hair-removal method depends on your personal preference, hair type, skin sensitivity and the area of the body in need of hair removal. Hair can be removed at the surface of the skin or at the root, below the surface of the skin. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Razor and shaving cream or soap
- Chemical depilator
- Wax and waxing strips
- Tweezers
Instructions
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How to Depilate
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Use a razor and shaving cream to remove hair from the underarms and legs. This method is affordable, convenient and quick. Shave in the direction hair grows, using a moisturizing soap or commercial shaving cream to lubricate the razor and prevent skin irritation and razor burn. Replace your razor blades regularly to avoid cuts and scrapes. Expect to shave anywhere from every day to every three days to keep your skin smooth and hairless.
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Opt for waxing or tweezing for unwanted facial hair. If you have only a bit of grooming to do, tweezing an occasional stray eyebrow hair may work well. For many women, waxing facial hair is preferred. This method eliminates hair for several weeks, takes very little time, and can be done at home or in a salon. You may wish to opt for a wax that hardens and does not require the use of paper or cotton strips for home use. Be careful not to wax too much, and carefully follow the directions on the wax you purchase to avoid burns or irritation.
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Try a chemical depilatory cream for the bikini line. Choose a product especially for bikini-line depilation and be sure to test on a small area before using. While the specifics may vary depending on the product, in most cases, you will apply the product to the area with unwanted hair and allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Depilatory creams can be irritating and the smell is quite pungent. Scrape the cream off, removing the hair along with it, and rinse well.
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Consider waxing all unwanted body hair. While waxing is most commonly used for small amounts of facial hair, you can opt to wax your legs, underarms and bikini line. Consider visiting a salon if you want to wax your bikini line or other sensitive areas. Waxing allows you to forget about hair removal for four to six weeks at a time, as hair is removed from the root. If you are waxing at home, you will apply wax, allow it to sit briefly and press a strip of cloth to the wax. Pull firmly to remove the strip, the wax and the hair.
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Experiment with sugaring, mechanical epilators and other methods to remove unwanted hair. While unwanted body hair is an inconvenience for many women, if you find the right depilatory method, you can manage leg, underarm, bikini or facial hair without expending significant time or energy.
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Tips & Warnings
Opt for gentle methods if you have sensitive skin. Try postshaving lotions to prevent razor burn.
