8 Signs You’re Removing Hair Incorrectly
We spend more than $10,000 on hair removal during our lifetime. And it’s sad when we don’t get good results after spending so much money on this rather annoying, and sometimes even painful process. Hair that sappears even after shaving, leftover wax, and redness can make anyone crazy. And the reasons for this can vary, from shaving in the hot bath to not using enough powder.
We at Bright Side have created a list of signs for you that are indicators that you’re doing it wrong. These mistakes are preventing you from enjoying the smoothness of your skin and are making you constantly struggle with irritation.
1. You choose the wrong removal method.
It’s no secret that there are many ways to remove hair these days. But not all of them are suitable for each of us. Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to the reaction of your skin to each of the methods used. Irritation is the main signal that you’re using the wrong method for hair removal.
It’s also worth keeping in mind that you may be allergic. And therefore, you always need to check a new product before using it.
How can you do this: Apply a small portion of depilation cream, wax, or sugar paste to a small area of the skin. Wait for 5 minutes. And only if there is no itching, redness, or irritation do we suggest trying your chosen method on the rest of your body.
2. You shave while taking a hot bath.
This may not seem logical to you. Because first, it’s convenient. And, well, secondly, many of you know that it’s better to shave your hair when the skin has been steamed. And that is the truth.
But if you steam the skin too much by lying for a long time in the hot bath. It swells and the hair becomes less noticeable and it’s more difficult to remove it completely. That’s why you may not get the desired results and have some hair left over after shaving.
Solution: Don’t soak your skin too long. You can also try shaving after the bath, but only if you wait a little while the swelling subsides.
3. You remove hair incorrectly.
If we’re talking about hair removal with a razor, then this can be done both in terms of hair growth and against it. But the direction is crucial for sugaring and waxing. So, it’s important to remember how to apply the product and remove hair. These simple rules will help you get rid of hair
Waxing: Apply wax strictly according to the hair growth. And remove against growth.
Sugaring: Apply the paste against hair growth, and remove in the direction of the hair growth.
4. You don’t scrub your skin.
Before removing excess hair, it’s better to exfoliate the skin. This will help remove dead skin particles. Afterward, you can get closer to the base of the hair and it will be easier for you to remove it to the maximum available length.
You can use a purchased scrub or make your own. For example, based on coffee or sugar. Apply the mixture to the area you’re about to shave and gently massage your skin. A hard washcloth is also suitable.
Important: Do not scrub the skin immediately before removing hair. This procedure is best done in advance, the day before. And be sure to moisturize your skin with a cream or a lotion after scrubbing.
5. You don’t prepare your skin.
If you decide to do sugaring or waxing, you should degrease the areas that you will be removing the hair from. This will help you to remove the bacteria that accumulate on the skin and protect it against any possible infection or irritation. Plus, this will improve the quality of depilation, since there will be no layer of sebum between the skin and the mixture itself.
For this, you can use special professional lotions or lotions that contain alcohol. Simply apply liquid to a cotton pad and wipe your skin where you want to get rid of the hair.
Important: If you plan to do sugaring, use talcum powder before starting the procedure. So the mixture will stick less to the skin and will only grab the hair well without injuring the skin.
6. You remove hair too early.
You need to understand that it’s easier to remove hair if it’s not too short. If you shave off small stubble every day, then it’s likely that there will be irritation. The length also affects the quality of hair depilation.
Therefore, it’s better to do it when the hair length is about 1/4 of an inch. Otherwise, the procedure will not bring the desired effect, since it will be difficult to grab the hair. You risk injuring the skin, and most of the hair will still be there afterward. Hair can be shorter if you use sugar paste.
Important: Do not try to grow hair for weeks for the best hair removal results. Because it also has a negative effect on the procedure. The mixture can get tangled in the hair and remain on them. So, if you missed the moment of the proper length, it’s better to trim hair a little where needed.
7. You take care of the skin improperly after hair removal.
The end of the hair removal procedure is no less important than the preparation before it. First, you need to moisturize your skin well. Using oil seems like a great idea, but it’s not. Some types of oil can clog the pores and increase irritation.
Therefore, it’s better to use aloe vera gel or special cream after depilation to soothe the skin. Also, you shouldn’t take a hot bath or swim in a pool for 1-2 days after depilation. You should also not sunbathe or use deodorants and other cosmetics during those days. This can all cause itching, irritation, or inflammation.
Important: Don’t scratch or rub the processed areas because it can cause infection.
8. Ingrown hair
Many of us are familiar with ingrown hair, which is also a sign of improper hair removal. The thing is that the hair gets weaker and it’s harder for it to get out. As a result, it curls and begins to grow inward.
There are many causes of hair ingrowth and many of them we have already listed above. It can be the use of oil after depilation, shaving against the grain, and the absence of a proper scrub before the procedure. Also, frequent shaving, a dulled blade, and using a razor several times in the same place can lead to ingrown hair.
Solution: Follow all the rules for preparing for the hair removal procedure. Also before shaving, be sure to use a special foam or gel. And use a sharp razor going over the place only once. After each procedure, take care of the skin, and moisturize it so that it doesn’t coarsen. Don’t wear synthetic or tight clothing.
Do you have problems after removing hair? Do you know of any other ways to prevent the unpleasant consequences of hair removal? We would like to hear your tips and tricks in the comments.
Preview photo credit Depositphotos.com