Edited: June 15, 2021
The most stressful part of getting bathing suit ready is hair removal — especially for redheads! Those with red hair can be allergic to razors, unable to get laser hair removal and are commonly sensitive to products. It can get complicated. And, let’s admit it; just when you think you’ve gotten rid of all that unwanted hair, there’s a missed spot. Grrr!
Luckily, redheads do have many options when getting rid of unwanted hair. Let’s look your best this season by the pool or beach:
1. Shaving:
Of course, the most com mon way is to shave. Thanks to inventions like Finishing Touch, and even regular razors, we have an easy way to get rid of the unwanted hair on many areas on the body. Just make sure to always fully hydrate the skin after shaving so that razor bumps do not occur.
In a previous article titled Signs You’re Allergic to Nickel in Razorblades, Dr. Vermen Verallo-Rowell, dermatologist, dermatopathologist and founder of VMV Hypoallergenics confirms that women, especially those with sensitivities, can be allergic to certain razors with nickel in its make up. “Nickel is one of the most allergic metals and in many studies is the most common allergy,” says Verallo-Rowell. “Symptoms include dryness, redness, scaling, itching, darkening or other abnormal symptoms on areas that might come in contact with the metal parts of the razor.”
She also shares that in razor blade studies, it has been proven that those with small skin irritations due to the nickel in the blade have increased reactions if one is sensitive and/or allergic to the fragrance in the shaving products. And, the nickel release in the razors, if allergic, can worsen reaction to shaving cream and/or shaving products. This proves that sensitive skin can be equally affected by fragrance and nickel, both of which redheads should avoid if experiencing the symptoms above.
Remember to use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free shaving products & opt for waxing.
READ: How Redheads Can Get The Best Shave
2. Laser treatment:
Also, keep in mind that most redheads cannot get laser treatments because the hair is too light. The laser light simply cannot pick up the hair to extract it. It’s important to find a laser hair removal center that will work on redheads. Typically, laser experts will not works with a redhead because their hair is too light; but if you find the right center with the right technology (and money to splurge), you may have luck. If you keep hearing “no,” begin researching the electrolysis process.
READ: Can Redheads Get Laser Hair Removal?
3. Creams:
There are certain prescription creams that can stop hair growth. These creams will have to be prescribed by either a doctor or a dermatologist; in most instances, a product like NAIR will greatly irritate a redhead’s skin. It’s not recommended. Try asking about prescription hair removal creams at your next doctor’s visit.
4. Sugar Scrubs:
If you’re more into DIY projects, especially beauty related ones, then a sugar scrub may be for you! Sugar scrubs are very similar to waxing when it comes to the hair removal process but they are a little bit more gentle on the skin and hurt a bit less when removing. Here is more redhead-specific information about the process.
5. Waxing:
Waxing can be a great alternative to shaving because it pulls the hair from the root leaving less stubble. Although, if you are a virgin waxer it might take a couple of treatments before your redhead skin is silky smooth. And, since most redheads are very sensitive, you might not be able to do waxing at all.
Waxing doesn’t have to be painful. A lot of the pain can come from poor technique and poor pre-care. Always make sure skin is well hydrated and moisturized. Think of your hair as a weed. It is much easier to pull the weed out from the roots when you water the ground before you pull. Also do not over exfoliate the skin before your appointment. Wax has the ability to remove up to 5 layers of dead skin. If you exfoliate right before your treatment the wax will remove too much. There are also numbing creams and sprays that can be used.
The trick is to find the right professional to wax your redhead skin. Call around and do research!
Read more here.
6. Threading
This technique can only be done with facial hair and eyebrow hair, but it’s one to mention because it’s a great hair removal alternative for redheads with sensitive skin. Threading doesn’t remove a layer of skin (like waxing does) and you have the ability to have a better shape.
Don’t forget to follow up the process with the Finally Have Brows eyebrow gel:
Do you have a hair removal technique you love? Comment below.
Rock it like a Redhead!
