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Shower power with PhilosophyWarm days are back, and so is the reemergence of bare skin and bikinis. Hiding fuzz under long sleeves and pants is no longer an option, so get your skin beach ready by choosing a method of hair removal that works for you…no matter your preference or price range!
ShavingShaving is quick, inexpensive and pain-free. Start by softening hair in warm water and lathering on a moisturizing shave gel or cream (Bet bet is to shave in shower, near the end to allow time for the water and steam to open pores and soften hair completely). Use a sharp blade and avoid shaving the same area repeatedly to avoid irritation.
Tip: Exfoliate beforehand to loosen trapped hair and dead skin cells for the smoothest shave.
Try: EOS Ultra Moisturizing Shave Cream, $3.50.Available at evolutionofsmooth.com, Target and Wal-Mart stores. It’s so moisturizing, it can be used wet or dry.
Tweezing/Threading
Depilatories
These methods are best for areas of the face like brows and upper lip. Both involve hair being pulled from the root, resulting in finer regrowth. Threading involves a long piece of thin cotton thread that is twisted and then repeatedly run along an area, pulling out a line of hairs at a time,for a more precise shape. Both are great alternatives for those who get irritations from waxing, but can be painful to some people.
Tip: Apply a numbing cream before hand to minimize pain.
Try: Tweezerman Slant Tweezers, $20; Threading at most local salons, call for details.
Tip: Apply a numbing cream before hand to minimize pain.
Try: Tweezerman Slant Tweezers, $20; Threading at most local salons, call for details.
DepilatoriesDepilatory creams melt hair with chemicals that break down proteins that make up hair. They’re just as simple as shaving, and just as effortless. The newer formulations are designed for use in the shower, which makes using them even easier. Apply the depilatory in a generous, smooth thick layer, without rubbing in. After the recommended time, remove and viola! After using a depilatory, apply sunscreen to areas that will be exposed to the sun.
Tip: Test the product on a patch of skin first to determine skin’s sensitivity. Chemical burns are not a good look!
Try: Nair ShowerPower Hair Remover, $7.50
Tip: Test the product on a patch of skin first to determine skin’s sensitivity. Chemical burns are not a good look!
Try: Nair ShowerPower Hair Remover, $7.50
Waxing
Waxing is convenient to those who cant be bothered to shave every day, as the smoothing effects last up to 4 weeks. Although you can buy a DIY kit, leave major hair removal *ahem* bikini *ahem*) to the professionals. Wax is spread over a patch of hair and covered with strips of cloth. Once the wax cools, the strip is quickly pulled away to remove the entire hair - root included.
Tip: Waxing does hurt a bit, but popping an ibuprofen about 45 minutes before helps dull pain and lessen swelling.
Try: At home- Bliss Poetic Waxing At Home Waxing Kit, $45 ; In salon- call your local salon/spa for details.
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