Shaving Armpit Hair
Shaving armpit hair is one of the most common hair removal methods. But have you ever wondered what really happens if shaving becomes a regular habit? Is it actually good for the skin, and why does it seem that with frequent shaving, the hair grows back thicker and coarser?
Many people choose shaving because it is simple, convenient, affordable, and quick. It keeps the underarm area looking clean and helps boost confidence when wearing sleeveless clothes. However, it can also lead to skin irritation, dryness, ingrown hairs, itching, or even infection from small cuts caused by the razor.
For those who still rely on shaving as their main method of underarm hair removal, this article explains the pros and cons of shaving, why hair appears thicker and coarser after shaving, and introduces more effective hair removal options that deliver longer-lasting results.
Table of content : Shaving Armpit Hair
Is Shaving Armpit Hair a Good Idea?
Shaving armpit hair involves using a razor or other shaving tools to cut the hair at the surface of the skin. It is one of the easiest, most convenient, and quickest ways to remove underarm hair. It requires no special technique, can be done at home, and provides a high level of privacy.
So, is shaving armpit hair really a good choice? In reality, it has both advantages and disadvantages. The results depend on each individual’s skin type and personal preference. The next section explores the pros and cons of shaving armpit hair in more detail.
Pros and Cons of Shaving Armpit Hair
Pros of Shaving Armpit Hair
- Creates smoother-looking underarm skin, boosting confidence when wearing sleeveless tops or dresses
- Reduces unpleasant odor since underarm hair can trap sweat and bacteria, leading to bad smells
- Enhances the effectiveness of deodorants and antiperspirants by preventing hair from blocking product distribution
- Provides an inexpensive, quick, and convenient method that can be performed at home
Cons of Shaving Armpit Hair
- Causes itching, dryness, or flaking, especially when using dull or unhygienic razors
- Makes regrown hair appear thicker and feel coarser
- Increases the risk of ingrown hairs and folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles)
- Requires frequent shaving, as hair grows back quickly
- Darkens the underarm skin due to friction from the razor
- Carries a risk of cuts or scratches if shaving is not done carefully
- Irritates sensitive skin if foams or gels contain unsuitable chemicals
Important Note: If choosing to shave, it is best to use a high-quality razor and follow proper aftercare. Apply alcohol-free skincare products with soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera, to keep the skin moisturized and smooth.
How to Shave Armpit Hair Properly
Shaving armpit hair is straightforward. The following steps can help reduce irritation and achieve better results:
- Wash the underarm area with warm water to open the pores.
- Apply shaving foam or gel to reduce friction between the skin and the razor.
- Use a clean, sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth to minimize ingrown hairs.
- For a closer shave, shave against the grain carefully, but be aware of possible irritation.
- Rinse the underarms with cold water to close the pores.
- Apply a moisturizer or alcohol-free skincare product to prevent dryness.
While shaving is easy and convenient, the results are only temporary. For those who want more permanent solutions with fewer problems like ingrown hairs, laser technology such as Long Pulse ND YAG may be a better option. This method targets and weakens the hair roots directly, slowing regrowth and reducing the need for frequent shaving.
What Are the Methods for Shaving Armpit Hair?
There are several ways to remove armpit hair, such as razors, electric shavers, hair removal creams, waxing, plucking, and laser treatments. Here are the pros and cons of each method.
1. Using a Razor
Method: Shave in the direction of hair growth with a sharp, clean razor.
Pros: Quick, easy, inexpensive, and leaves the skin smooth.
Cons: Hair regrows quickly, appears thicker and coarser, and may cause irritation or ingrown hairs if not done carefully.
2. Using an Electric Shaver
Method: Use an electric shaver designed specifically for armpit hair removal.
Pros: Fast, safer than razors, and reduces the risk of cuts.
Cons: More expensive than razors and requires maintenance, such as charging batteries or replacing blades.
3. Waxing
Method: Apply wax to the underarm area, then pull the hair out with wax strips.
Pros: Slower regrowth compared to shaving, lasts 2–3 weeks, and provides smoother results.
Cons: Painful during the process and may cause ingrown hairs.
4. Using Hair Removal Cream
Method: Apply cream to the underarm area, leave it on as directed, then rinse with warm water.
Pros: Easy, convenient, painless, and longer-lasting than shaving with a razor.
Cons: Does not last as long as waxing and may irritate the skin if sensitive to chemicals in the cream.
5. Plucking
Method: Use tweezers or an epilator to remove hairs from the roots.
Pros: Simple, inexpensive, widely accessible, and provides results that last longer than shaving.
Cons: Painful, time-consuming, and may increase the risk of skin inflammation if done improperly or with unclean tools.
6. Laser Hair Removal
Method: Use laser energy to target and destroy hair follicles directly.
Pros: Precise underarm hair removal, long-lasting or permanent results, creates smoother skin, and reduces problems such as ingrown hairs or “chicken skin.”
Cons: May cause discomfort during treatment, usually requires 5–8 sessions, and involves a higher cost than other methods, though worthwhile for long-term benefits.
Summary: The best method for armpit hair removal depends on personal convenience, budget, and individual needs. For patients looking for the most effective and long-lasting option, permanent laser hair removal is recommended. Options include YAG laser and diode laser. Although more costly than other methods, the safety, convenience, and confidence it provides make it a valuable long-term solution.
At V Square Clinic, laser hair removal is performed using the Cool YAG 1064 program with the Long Pulse ND YAG 1064 laser (Light B EVO, imported from Italy), combined with the Cryo 7 cooling system from Germany. This combination ensures safe and comfortable treatment. All devices are FDA-approved in the United States, Europe, and Thailand, guaranteeing that patients receive the highest standard of care.
The Long Pulse ND YAG 1064 delivers energy deep into the hair follicles with precision and effectiveness. It is well-suited for Asian skin types, safe for all skin tones and hair thicknesses, and provides permanent hair reduction. The treatment can be applied to multiple areas, including YAG laser for underarms, Brazilian, facial hair, legs, and more. In addition, it helps reduce ingrown hairs and minimizes the risk of skin irritation, making it one of the most effective and reliable methods of hair removal.
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Why Does Shaving Make Armpit Hair Seem Thicker and Coarser?
Many people notice that after shaving, newly grown armpit hair appears thicker and coarser, which often causes concern.
In reality, shaving does not make hair grow back thicker or harder. Shaving simply cuts the hair at its thinnest point — the tapered tip. Once shaved, the new regrowth has a blunt edge instead of a fine tip. This blunt edge makes th
What to Do If You Feel Itchy After Shaving Armpit Hair?
Itching after shaving the underarms may indicate skin irritation or mild inflammation. Here are some doctor-recommended tips to relieve discomfort:
- Apply lotion or soothing cream after shaving: Use skincare products with calming ingredients, such as aloe vera, to reduce irritation.
- Avoid alcohol-based products: Alcohol can further dry and irritate the skin. Choose alcohol-free products instead.
- Cold compress: Apply a cold towel or ice pack to the underarms for 10–15 minutes to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation.
- Use anti-itch cream: If the itching is intense, hydrocortisone cream or other anti-itch formulas may help.
- Avoid scratching: Scratching can worsen irritation and even cause infection. Try to keep the area untouched.
- Use gentle soap: Wash the underarms with mild, fragrance-free, natural-based soap to avoid further irritation.
If the itching doesn’t improve or if redness and swelling occur, consult a doctor to check for underlying skin conditions that may require treatment.
Is Shaving Underarm Hair Really Effective?
Shaving underarm hair is quick and simple, but it also has drawbacks. Hair tends to grow back faster, often feeling coarser and thicker than before. It may also cause skin irritation and lead to ingrown hairs. For this reason, many people turn to underarm laser hair removal instead — a method that is more effective, convenient, and provides longer-lasting results. Regrown hair becomes finer, softer, and less noticeable, leaving the underarm skin smoother and reducing irritation.
For those considering permanent underarm hair removal, it’s best to choose a clinic with both expertise and advanced technology. At V Square Clinic, treatment is performed with the Light B Evo Long Pulse ND YAG laser, ensuring safety and delivering satisfying results. Patients can also book a free consultation for personalized advice and a skin assessment before starting the procedure.
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