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Every week, we put out a call for your redhead questions. This gives you a chance to get advice or input from our team of redheads. From beauty and fashion to lifestyle, redheads are in a unique boat, and we want to help make this community a place where you can turn for all your redhead needs.
This week, we are answering a question from Instagram that reads: “Best hair removal for ingrown prone skin/sensitive skin to prep for swimsuit season?” Getting rid of unwanted hair can be challenging for sensitive-skinned redheads, but we’ve learned a few tricks over the years. Here are tips and tricks for getting your skin swimsuit ready and saying goodbye to unwanted hairs:
Tip #1: Prep your skin
You want to ensure your skin is nice and prepped for at-home hair removal. This includes cleansing the skin and exfoliating beforehand. Exfoliating freshly treated skin can lead to irritation, but it can also help ensure all your hair is accessible.
Prepping the skin properly is essential for at-home hair removal, especially for redheads with sensitive skin. Here are some tips:
- Exfoliation: Before any hair removal method (like shaving, waxing, or using depilatory creams), exfoliate your skin gently. This helps remove dead skin cells and prevents ingrown hairs.
- Choose the Right Method: Different hair removal methods suit different skin types. For example:
- Shaving: Use a sharp razor and a moisturizing shaving cream to avoid irritation.
- Waxing: Opt for a wax specifically formulated for sensitive skin to minimize redness and discomfort.
- Depilatory Creams: Conduct a patch test first to ensure it doesn’t cause a reaction, and choose a cream for sensitive skin if possible.
- Moisturize: Hydrated skin is less prone to irritation and redness. To soothe the skin after hair removal, use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: If you plan to expose the treated area to sunlight, use sunscreen to prevent sunburn and further irritation.
- Test for Sensitivity: Always perform a patch test before using a new product or method to check for allergic reactions or skin sensitivity.
- Post-Hair Removal Care: After hair removal, treat your skin gently. Avoid hot baths, tight clothing, or other irritants aggravating the skin.
- Consult a Dermatologist: If you have susceptible skin or are unsure about the best method for your skin type, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.
By following these steps, redheads can help minimize the risk of irritation and achieve smoother skin after at-home hair removal.
Tip #2: Use the right tools & techniques
Shaving is usually the easiest and most accessible option. Shaving leaves much room for irritation and the risk of ingrown hairs, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be a good option. Ensure you use a nickel-free razor (many redheads are sensitive or allergic to nickel), always use enough shaving cream, gel, or oil, and replace your razor blade every 4-6 shaves. You can reduce shaving irritation with the hair instead of against it, although this won’t get you the closest shave.
For treatments like waxing, sugaring, and threading, you should head to a professional unless you’re experienced, as there can be a lot of room for error and irritation. These techniques may cause skin irritation, depending on how sensitive your skin is, but generally run a lower risk of ingrown hairs. You will also need a grow-out period between treatments, which may not be ideal if you want to be hairless the entire summer. If you opt for these treatments, let your professional know you have sensitive skin, which may change how they perform the service.
Hair removal creams can be a good option for redheads who struggle with irritation from other methods. Could you patch-test the product before applying it and never leave it on longer than the packaging says? It’s also essential to ensure you get cream specifically for the part of your body you want to remove hair.
Tip #3: Know how to care for the skin post hair removal
Keeping the skin hydrated and clean after shaving is essential. To help reduce irritation, apply an unscented moisturizer or a post-shave product. If you have had a hair removal treatment, follow the professional’s guidelines for post-treatment care.
After hair removal, whether shaving, waxing, or using depilatory creams, it’s essential to care for your skin properly to prevent irritation, ingrown hairs, and other issues. Here are some post-hair removal tips:
- Moisturize: Apply a gentle, alcohol-free moisturizer immediately after hair removal to soothe the skin and replenish moisture. This helps prevent dryness and irritation.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Newly treated skin is often more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid sun exposure for at least 24 hours after hair removal. If going outside is necessary, apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect the skin.
- Avoid Hot Baths and Showers: Hot water can irritate freshly treated skin. Opt for lukewarm water when bathing or showering, and avoid using harsh soaps or exfoliants immediately after hair removal.
- Loose Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid friction and irritation against the treated skin. Tight clothing can exacerbate irritation and even cause ingrown hairs.
- Skip Heavy Exercise: Refrain from intense physical activities or exercise immediately after hair removal, as sweat and friction can irritate the skin.
- Exfoliate Gently: After a few days, gently exfoliate the treated area to prevent ingrown hairs. Use a mild exfoliant or a soft washcloth to remove dead skin cells.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within. Hydration is crucial for maintaining skin health and promoting healing.
- Avoid Scratching: Itching is common after hair removal, especially if the skin is dry. Avoid scratching the area to prevent further irritation or potential infection.
- Use Aloe Vera: If you experience redness or irritation, applying aloe vera gel can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
- Please follow instructions: If you used a specific hair removal product or method, please follow any additional instructions to ensure optimal results and minimize potential side effects.
Following these post-hair removal tips can help keep your skin smooth, healthy, and free from irritation after your at-home hair removal session.
Would you like your redhead question answered? Find us @howtobearedhead on Instagram and Facebook, and look for the Ask a Redhead question box.
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