Here's What You Need To Know About Waxing Vs. Shaving

When it comes to hair removal, most people opt for the least painful option available to them. However, if you're looking for longer-lasting, smoother results, waxing could be your best bet. For most people, their preferred method of hair removal comes down to a variety of factors.

Obviously, waxing penetrates the hair follicle at a much deeper level than shaving. Byrdie cites waxing's longer preparation time as one of the main differences between the treatments, especially since you need to let the area grow out before your treatment. Allowing for about a quarter of an inch of hair gives enough surface area for the wax to fully grasp the follicles. The outlet also notes that you'll need an appointment with a technician if you prefer a professional treatment, giving you a longer planning period.

But, with all of the extra care specifications, your treatment can last much longer than your casual shower shave. It reportedly takes about four weeks for your hair to become visible again, the outlet notes. This depends on the area of the body where you waxed (your bikini line and underarm hair tend to grow faster than hairs on your legs and arms), but the long term results are a part of the benefit to the sometimes-painful wax.

Waxing causes more pain, however, and many experts recommend taking between 200 and 400 mg of ibuprofen before your appointment.

If you're shaving at home, you'll know how often you have to hit the shower. However, a lesser known rule of thumb involves the frequency at which you switch out your razor blade. Allure suggests replacing your razor head every two to three shaves to keep the closest, most effective shave. One of the main benefits of waxing, on the other hand, is the infrequency in which you need to do it. If you'd rather shave at home, you'll need a stash of new razors and the patience to shave a few times each week. But, during the summer, using wax on areas such as your legs leaves you stubble free for much longer than your typical shave. If you'd rather spend your time outdoors instead of shaving every other day, a wax may be right for you.

While shaving is more cost-effective at first glance, those refills of cartridges can add up. At-home waxing will likely cost you around the same amount as your razors, Byrdie reports, but a professional wax will leave a bigger dent in your wallet.

When waxing, it's important to know that some areas are more painful than others. The outlet explains that armpit and bikini-line hair tend to be the thickest, making it the most excruciating to remove with wax. For a hybrid approach, you might consider waxing your legs and shaving your armpits and bikini area.

People in both camps have their preferences — with good reason. Depending on your budget, pain tolerance and spare time, either option could be best for you.