As temperatures soar and fashion choices adapt, “to shave or not to shave” becomes an all-too-familiar conundrum. We’ve all been there, weighing the pros and cons of slick-as-a-dolphin skin against the liberating embrace of our natural body hair. Regardless of whether you prefer to be a smooth operator or a mane-tainer, one thing’s for certain: choices abound. And when it comes to types of body hair removal, we are certainly spoiled for options.
From lasers to creams to hot wax, hair removal methods vary in permanence, price, and, as you would expect, pain levels. Below, Vogue Singapore’s all-you-need-know on the types of hair removal available in the city.
1. Waxing
At the forefront of our list is a type of body hair removal often associated with the phrase, “beauty is pain”. Waxing involves spreading a thin layer of wax onto the skin, followed by the swift removal of a cloth strip in the opposite direction of hair growth. While seemingly “ouch”, it is a highly effective and long-lasting hair removal method, catering to various body parts like the legs, arms, underarms, and bikini area. By extracting the hair from its root, regrowth is notably slower, resulting in hair that tends to be softer and finer over time.
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According to the waxperts at Strip, waxing also acts as an excellent exfoliation technique, effectively eliminating dead skin cells for brighter, refreshed skin. Additionally, when executed correctly, it can be a near-painless experience.
Price: Around $20 to $80 per session.
Pain levels: 3 to 4/5 with sensitivity around the bikini area particularly before menstruation.
Before and after care: Prior to waxing, there is no need for trimming or shaving as the ideal hair length for waxing is 4 to 6mm. Afterwards, avoid hot showers, make-up, and excessive rubbing of the treated area.
Frequency: Every 3 weeks, depending on the rate of hair growth.
2. Sugaring
Similar to waxing, sugaring involves the use of an organic, water-soluble sugar paste that is directly applied to the skin and then flicked off, effectively removing hair from the roots. This process results in slower regrowth of hair that is finer, softer, and lighter in colour, leading to quick hair refinement and reduced hair growth. However, unlike waxing methods, sugaring is also known for being less painful and is applied at body temperature, minimising the risk of scalding.
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Jasmine Yong, founder of Singapore’s first and only body sugaring studio, highlights that this hair removal method is a safer alternative for individuals with skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or spider veins.
Price: Around $20 to $80 per session.
Pain levels: 3/5
Before and after care: Three days prior to sugaring, hold off on any exfoliation to prevent thinning of the skin’s barrier, and leave hair at least 3mm long. Reinforce your skin’s barrier with moisturiser and sunscreen afterwards.
Frequency: Every two to five weeks, depending on the rate of hair growth.
3. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, is one of the most popular long-term hair reduction treatments. The genius of IPL lies in its ability to utilise multiple wavelengths of light radiation to address larger areas of the skin in less time compared to other laser treatments. During treatment, a specialist uses a handheld device to target the melanin in the hair follicles, heating and impairing them with pulses of light, and inducing a “resting phase” for the follicles. This leads to natural hair shedding and significantly slower regrowth.
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There are also IPL home devices available, but it’s vital to examine your skin tone and hair colour before making a purchase. Due to lower melanin levels, such treatments are futile for blonde, white, grey, or red shades of hair. On the contrary, darker skin tones should avoid IPL therapy since the light may react with skin melanin rather than hair roots.
Price: Around $50 to $500 per session.
Pain levels: 2/5
Before and after care: IPL therapy requires only the hair bulb in the follicle, thus shaving before your session is advised. After the treatment, keep your skin as cool and calm as possible by avoiding hot showers, strenuous exercise, and scented sprays for three days.
Frequency: Every two weeks for two months or more.
4. Shaving
It’s no surprise that razors are a staple in every travel grooming kit. Cost-effective, time-saving, and idiot-proof, shaving is the go-to solution for busy bodies seeking a quick-fix for unwanted fuzz. While shaving can be performed anywhere, there are certain things to consider depending on each area of the body. Long, crisp strokes work well on the legs since the skin is taut, but it’s best to follow up with moisturiser as the epidermis can dry up quickly. In contrast, the underarm area is naturally more moist, making hair removal theoretically easier. Just remember to be mindful of using rusty razors and replace blades after 10 uses to maintain a hygienic routine.
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Price: Around $5 to $50
Pain levels: 1/5
Before and after care: Wet shaving is generally recommended for longer-lasting results, so it’s advisable to take a hot shower before running razor over skin. Reinforce your skin’s barrier with moisturiser and sunscreen afterwards.
Frequency: Every two to three days, depending on the rate of hair growth.
5. Depilatory cream
Depilatory creams are by far the most painless way of hair removal. Great for removing hair in big regions or in difficult-to-reach areas, these creams are an excellent starting point for people who are just getting into hair removal. Apply the formula freely on the targeted region, making sure every strand is nicely coated. After the recommended time has elapsed, you may either scrape off the disintegrated hair with a plastic utensil or rinse it all off in the shower. As the process can get a little dirty, it’s best to do it in the bathroom for easy cleanup.
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Price: Around $5 to $20
Pain levels: 0/5
Before and after care: Reinforce your skin’s barrier with moisturiser and sunscreen afterwards.
Frequency: Every two to three days, depending on the rate of hair growth.
6. Epilating
What sets epilation apart from other methods of hair removal is its ability to eliminate hair from the root, resulting in slower regrowth and a notably smoother finish. Unlike shaving, which simply cuts hair at the surface, or depilatory creams, which dissolve hair beneath the skin, epilation effectively targets hair growth at its source. Imagine an electric device that mechanically tweezes your hairs, leaving behind silky, naked skin that remains hair-free for an extended period. For those with a higher pain tolerance, investing in an epilator is certainly worthwhile. Beginners should start off with an area they find least painful (i.e. the calves or forearms), and ensure that hair is at least 0.5mm in length.
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Price: Around $20 to $200
Pain levels: 5/5
Before and after care: Before epilating, take a warm shower to loosen the hair follicles and exfoliate thoroughly to prevent ingrown hairs. Afterwards, apply a lightweight moisturiser with soothing ingredients to calm the skin.
Frequency: Every three to four weeks.
