Hair Removal for Sensitive Skin

Many women live with sensitive skin. It can effect dozens of day-to-day decisions in life, from what fabrics to wear, to what kind of shower gel to use. The same goes for choosing the right hair removal method. You may be worried about reactions such as itching or redness, which are more prevalent with sensitive skin types.[1] But the good news is that there are actually many options for hair removal that can be suitable for sensitive skin. Here are some tips that might help with your decision.

Sensitive Areas

Certain areas of the body can be more sensitive than others, and it’s different for every individual. For instance, the skin on your bikini line, underarms, and face can be more sensitive than wider areas such as your legs.[2] The good news is that Veet have a wide selection of waxes and creams which are specifically designed for sensitive areas. These contain natural ingredients, such as Aloe Vera, which are known to soothe irritation. The Veet Face Precision Wax and Care kit even contains a specially designed applicator to focus on smaller areas, making it easier to wax.

Hair Removal Tips

A small amount of sensitivity is normal when removing unwanted hair. But with any method, there are certain steps you can take to minimise this. Before waxing, for instance, it’s important to make sure the skin is both clean and dry. This lessens the skin’s exposure to any possible bacteria, and gives the wax better access to the hairs, reducing pulling on the skin[3]. After removing hair from your bikini line or underarms, it’s a good idea to avoid synthetic fabrics to allow your skin to breathe.[4] If you follow your hair removal routine by moisturising, it’s also good to stick to neutral products with no perfumes or colourings, which can be harmful to sensitive skin.[5]

Managing Sensitive Skin

Hair removal aside, there are lots of steps you can take to manage your sensitive skin, making looking your best that much easier. Physical exercise is fantastic for your health and wellbeing, but sweating and chafing usually comes with the territory. It’s good to stick to loose fitting clothing during exercise, and to wash thoroughly afterwards lessening the skin’s contact with bacteria[6]. Sensitive skin can also be effected by exposure to heat.[7] Taking long, hot showers and baths can leave the skin dehydrated and more prone to dryness, so it’s a good idea to keep these to a minimum and reduce the temperature by a few degrees. Any abrasive activity can be likely to irritate sensitive skin. For instance, after a shower or swimming, you might want to avoid using coarse towels, and try patting dry instead of rubbing[8].

Sensitive skin is a very common complaint with men and women alike, but it needn’t get in the way of looking and feeling your best. Though it might require a little extra care, you could be flaunting smooth, hairless skin in no time.