Pubic hair shaving and waxing - Which is right for you?

Should I wax or shave my bikini line? That's the question many women are asking themselves around this time of year. Here's an overview of each method to help you make up your mind.

Pubic hair shaving

Shaving is a cheap quick method of removing hair from the bikini line. It's also a very common method. The best way to find out if it's right for you is to try it. Common problems include skin irritations, razor burns, razor bumps and ingrown hairs but these can all usually be minimized with a bit practice and care. Another thing to think about is the itching you may experience between pubic hair shaves.

If you're not very hairy and your hair is fine, pubic hair shaving might be for you. Many women get into the routine of giving themselves a quick pubic hair shave in the shower each morning and find it's no bother at all.

Waxing bikini lines

Waxing hurts, but if you're willing to endure the pain, it's a better long-term solution than pubic hair shaving, especially if you are very hairy. Getting it done is also more of a hassle than shaving but once it's done, hair won't grow back for four weeks.

Potential problems include ingrown hairs and allergic reactions to the wax. Worst-case scenario is you'll get a rash from the chemicals in the wax and a lot of ingrown hairs, which you'll have to tease out. Ingrown hairs are more of a problem with waxing than with shaving. If you decide to opt for waxing, get it done at a salon or spa the first time. Waxing bikini lines is their business so they'll make a better job of it than you ever could. They'll also be able to give you some tips, should you decide to do it yourself in future.

The approach many women take is a mixture of waxing and shaving, perhaps waxing for a holiday and then shaving in between waxes.