Your underarms pose a problem when it comes to hair removal. Shaving is quick and easy, but it can leave your underarms looking stubbly. Plucking eradicates the hair, but it can be painful to pull each hair one-by-one. Underarm waxing may be a good alternative to other forms of hair removal for your underarms. While it can be slightly painful, it gives you smooth, long-lasting results for tank-top and swimsuit weather.
Ideal Hair Length
Before you consider waxing under your arms, make sure your hair is at the right length for waxing. If it is too short, the wax won't properly grip the hair and you won't get thorough results. If the hair is too long, it can be unnecessarily painful. KidsHealth, a division of the Nemours Foundation recommends trimming or allowing your hair to grow to 1/4 inch before you attempt waxing, for the best results.
Heat Preparation
Soaking your underarms in a hot bath before waxing can give you better results. The heat will soften the hair, making it easier to pull. The heat can also gently open your pores so that the hairs slide out more easily. If you don't want to get into the bath, wet a washcloth with hot water and apply to the area for two minutes before you begin waxing. Dry off well before you apply the wax.
Pain Relief
Waxing can be painful, especially on sensitive areas like armpits. To help reduce the pain, take two ibuprofen 30 minutes before your begin waxing. Then, keep a bowl of ice cubes on hand so that when you tear the fabric strip away from your skin, you can quickly apply an ice cube to the area to numb the pain.
The Right Process
The success of your underarm wax relies on using the right process. According to the ManageMyLife website, the first step to waxing under your arms is to determine in which direction your hair is growing, because you'll apply wax in the direction of hair growth and tear off in the opposite direction. Under your arms, hair growth direction is likely sporadic, which may require you to wax in small areas. Apply the wax with the hair growth and apply the fabric strip. Pull the strip against the hair growth before moving on to the next patch.
After Care
Apply a cooling moisturizer to the area after you've finished; something with aloe will be calming. Avoid wearing tight clothes that will rub and irritate the sensitive skin for the first few days, warns the DailyGlow website. After 24 hours, exfoliate under your arms with a scrub to ward off ingrown hairs. Waxing usually lasts up to six weeks, so repeat when your hair is 1/4 inch long again.
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