Unveiling the Truth: Brazilian Waxing, Hygiene, and Keeping Ingrown Hairs at Bay

Welcome to another engaging discussion at Relaxing On The Go (ROTG). We're more than a spa; we're your go-to place for debunking myths and delivering insight on wellness topics that matter to you. Today, we're stepping into an area of great debate – the role of Brazilian waxing in promoting hygiene and how to minimize the dreaded ingrown hairs.

Brazilian waxing, which refers to the process of complete hair removal from your bikini area, has both fans and skeptics. Does Brazilian waxing enhance hygiene? Let's turn to science for the answers.

Research indicates that Brazilian waxing can lead to an increased sense of cleanliness, especially during menstruation1. Additionally, a hair-free bikini area tends to stay drier, potentially reducing the risk of yeast and bacterial infections23. But let's not forget, maintaining good hygiene goes beyond hair removal. It's about a comprehensive routine of regular cleansing and drying, irrespective of whether you choose to wax or maintain your natural state.

With sugaring, waxing, or certainly shaving, comes the concern of ingrown hairs - hairs that grow back into the skin causing inflammation. But don't fret! Here's your quick guide to tackling this issue head-on.

First up, make exfoliation your best friend. Gently removing the layer of dead skin cells can pave the way for the hair to grow outwards instead of curling back into the skin4. A couple of times a week, incorporate a gentle body scrub or an exfoliating glove in your shower routine.

Next, keep your skin hydrated. Moisturized skin makes it easier for hair to grow out, lessening the chances of ingrown hairs5. Consider applying a light, non-comedogenic lotion daily.

Further, using products with salicylic acid or glycolic acid can help prevent the hair follicle from becoming blocked, another common cause of ingrown hairs6. And remember, as tempting as it might be, avoid picking or scratching the area to prevent infections and scarring7.

Finally, while there are benefits to Brazilian waxing, potential risks do exist8. Adhering to post-waxing care guidelines and entrusting your waxing to professionals, like us at ROTG, can help mitigate these risks.

Whether or not to go for Brazilian waxing comes down to personal preference. If you find that it enhances your sense of cleanliness and boosts your self-confidence, then it's a worthy option.

At ROTG, we're all about supporting your wellness journey and helping you make choices that resonate with you. You're never alone in this journey; we're just a phone call away.

To a confident you,

Best, ROTG

Footnotes

1. Rowen, T.S., Gaither, T.W., Awad, M.A., Osterberg, E.C., Shindel, A.W., & Breyer, B.N. (2016). Pubic Hair Grooming Prevalence and Motivation Among Women in the United States. JAMA Dermatology, 152(10), 1106–1113. ↩

2. Pirotta, M., & Garland, S. (2006). Genital Candida species detected in samples from women in Melbourne, Australia, before and after treatment with antibiotics. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 44(9), 3213-3217. ↩

3. Saxena, S., Wijnmaalen, J., & Zareie, M. (2014). Bacterial flora of the normal and itching vulva. Acta Dermatovenerol Alp Pannonica Adriat, 23(1), 15-19. ↩

4. American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). How to prevent and treat ingrown hairs. ↩

5. Rendon, M.I., Berson, D.S., Cohen, J.L., Roberts, W.E., Starker, I., & Wang, B. (2010). Evidence and Considerations in the Application of Chemical Peels in Skin Disorders and Aesthetic Resurfacing. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 3(7), 32–43. ↩

6. Coda, A.B., Hata, T., Miller, J., Audish, D., Kotol, P., Two, A., Shafiq, F., Yamasaki, K., Harper, J.C., Del Rosso, J.Q., & Gallo, R.L. (2014). Cathelicidin, kallikrein 5, and serine protease activity is inhibited during treatment of rosacea with azelaic acid 15% gel. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 71(3), 570–577. ↩

7. Draelos, Z.D. (2015). The Science Behind Skin Care: Cleansers. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 14(1), 35-38. ↩

8. Bessa, G.R., Miot, H.A., & Sanudo, A. (2018). Complications of male genital waxing. Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia, 93(3), 356-359. ↩