How To Clean Underarms Hair?

Underarm hair is a natural part of the human body, but keeping this area clean and hair-free is essential for personal hygiene and comfort.

While it’s a matter of personal preference whether you choose to remove underarm hair, many people opt for a smooth, hair-free look.

This guide explores various methods to clean underarm hair effectively, along with tips for maintaining healthy skin in this sensitive area.

Why Clean Underarm Hair?

Cleaning underarm hair has several benefits beyond aesthetics. Hair-free underarms can reduce body odor since sweat tends to cling to hair, leading to bacterial growth.

Additionally, removing underarm hair can make applying deodorants and antiperspirants more effective, ensuring a fresh feeling throughout the day.

Some people also find that hair-free underarms are more comfortable, especially in hot weather or during physical activity.

Methods to Clean Underarm Hair

1. Shaving

Overview: Shaving is one of the most popular and convenient methods for removing underarm hair. It’s quick, cost-effective, and can be done at home with minimal equipment.

How to Do It:

  1. Preparation: Start by wetting your underarms with warm water to soften the hair. You can shave during or after a shower when the hair is the softest.
  2. Apply Shaving Gel: Use a shaving gel or cream to create a protective layer between the razor and your skin. This helps to prevent cuts and irritation.
  3. Shave: Use a sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. Make gentle, short strokes, and avoid pressing too hard.
  4. Rinse and Moisturize: Rinse the area with cold water to close the pores and apply a moisturizer or aloe vera to soothe the skin.

Pros:

  • Quick and easy
  • Inexpensive

Cons:

  • Hair grows back quickly, typically within a few days
  • Risk of cuts, razor burn, and ingrown hairs

2. Waxing

Overview: Waxing removes hair from the root, resulting in smoother skin that lasts longer compared to shaving. It can be done at home or by a professional at a salon.

How to Do It:

  1. Preparation: Ensure your underarm hair is at least 1/4 inch long for the wax to grip effectively. Clean the area and dry it thoroughly.
  2. Apply Wax: Warm the wax as per the instructions and apply a thin layer to your underarms in the direction of hair growth.
  3. Remove Wax: Place a cloth strip over the wax, press it firmly, and quickly pull it off in the opposite direction of hair growth. Repeat if necessary.
  4. Soothe the Skin: After waxing, apply a soothing lotion or aloe vera to reduce redness and irritation.

Pros:

  • Longer-lasting results (up to 4 weeks)
  • Fewer chances of ingrown hairs

Cons:

  • Can be painful, especially for first-timers
  • Risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions

3. Depilatory Creams

Overview: Depilatory creams chemically dissolve hair, making it easy to wipe away. These creams offer a painless way to remove underarm hair.

How to Do It:

  1. Patch Test: Before using the cream, perform a patch test on a small skin area to check for any adverse reactions.
  2. Apply the Cream: Apply a generous layer of the cream to your underarms, covering all the hair.
  3. Wait and Wipe: Leave the cream on for the recommended time (usually 5-10 minutes). Then, use a damp cloth to wipe the cream and hair away.
  4. Rinse: Rinse the area thoroughly with water and apply a gentle moisturizer.

Pros:

  • Painless and quick
  • Easy to do at home

Cons:

  • Hair grows back within a few days
  • Possible skin irritation or allergic reactions

4. Laser Hair Removal

Overview: Laser hair removal is a more permanent solution that uses laser light to target and destroy hair follicles, reducing hair growth over time.

How to Do It:

  1. Consult a Professional: Laser hair removal should be done by a licensed professional. A consultation will determine if you’re a good candidate based on your skin tone and hair color.
  2. Prepare for the Session: Avoid sun exposure and stop any hair removal methods that remove the root (like waxing) a few weeks before the session.
  3. The Procedure: During the session, a laser device will be used to target the hair follicles. Multiple sessions are usually required for optimal results.
  4. Post-Care: After each session, avoid sun exposure and use a gentle moisturizer. You may experience some redness or swelling.

Pros:

  • Long-lasting results (hair may never grow back)
  • Reduces the thickness and amount of hair over time

Cons:

  • Expensive and requires multiple sessions
  • Not effective for everyone (works best on people with light skin and dark hair)

5. Sugaring

Overview: Sugaring is an ancient hair removal method similar to waxing but uses a natural paste made from sugar, lemon, and water.

How to Do It:

  1. Prepare the Paste: Heat the sugar mixture until it forms a thick, sticky paste. Let it cool to a comfortable temperature.
  2. Apply the Paste: Spread the paste on your underarms against the direction of hair growth.
  3. Remove the Paste: Quickly pull the paste off in the direction of hair growth. You can reuse the same paste until it’s no longer sticky.
  4. Soothe the Skin: Apply a gentle lotion or aloe vera after sugaring to soothe the skin.

Pros:

  • Natural ingredients
  • Less painful than waxing

Cons:

  • Can be messy and time-consuming
  • Requires some skill to perform correctly

Tips for Healthy Underarm Skin

  • Exfoliate Regularly: Gently exfoliate your underarms once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs.
  • Keep the Area Dry: Moisture can lead to bacterial growth, so keep your underarms dry, especially after hair removal.
  • Use a Mild Deodorant: Opt for a mild, alcohol-free deodorant to avoid irritation, especially after hair removal.
  • Moisturize: Keep your underarms moisturized to prevent dryness and irritation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right method for cleaning underarm hair depends on your preferences, pain tolerance, and skin type.

Whether you prefer the quick convenience of shaving, the longer-lasting results of waxing, or the permanent solution of laser hair removal, it’s essential to care for your underarm skin properly.

By following the methods and tips outlined in this guide, you can achieve smooth, healthy underarms that look and feel great.

Also Read: How To Remove Hair From Underarms Permanently at Home?

Back to blog