Comparing Waxing to Shaving: What Research Suggests for Skin Health

Hair removal has been practised for centuries, but the debate still goes on: is waxing better than shaving? Which one is gentler on your skin? And what does the research actually say about these two common methods?

Many people start shaving in their teens. It’s fast, cheap, and easy. Later on, some switch to waxing, hoping for smoother skin that lasts longer. But which method is really better for your skin’s long-term health?

In this blog, we’ll break it down in clear, simple terms. No fluff, just facts. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which option suits your body, skin, and budget best.

Why People Remove Body Hair 

People remove body hair for a variety of reasons:

• To feel cleaner
• For smoother skin
• Due to cultural or personal preferences
• For hygiene, particularly during sports or in warm weather

For many, hair removal is also a form of self-care. It can boost confidence and help individuals feel more comfortable in their own skin.

In some cultures, hair removal is tied to tradition and beauty standards. In others, it’s simply part of a regular grooming routine. Whatever the reason, it often influences how people perceive their appearance.

But the question remains: which method is actually better for your skin? 

What Happens to Your Skin When You Shave 

Shaving removes hair from the surface of the skin. While it might seem harmless, here’s what actually happens:

• The razor scrapes away part of the skin’s top layer
• Tiny nicks, cuts or razor burn can occur
• Hair grows back quickly, often within 1 to 3 days
• Ingrown hairs are common
• It can cause irritation, particularly in those with sensitive skin
• Dryness and redness may follow

Interesting fact: Dermatologists note that shaving removes around 0.1 mm of skin along with the hair.

Frequent shaving without proper technique can also lead to folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicles caused when bacteria enter through small cuts. Unclean shaving tools can increase the risk of skin infections. Using a sharp, clean razor and shaving in the direction of hair growth can help minimise these risks.

What Happens When You Wax 

Waxing removes hair from the root, making it a more intense method than shaving, but with longer-lasting results.

• Hair typically takes 3 to 6 weeks to grow back
• Skin feels smoother for longer
• Some redness or sensitivity is common immediately after
• With regular waxing, regrowth becomes finer and sparser
• Waxing acts as a form of exfoliation, removing dead skin cells
• Over time, it may reduce the likelihood of ingrown hairs

Did you know? Hair grows in three stages: anagen (active growth), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting/shedding). Waxing during the anagen stage may slow down regrowth and improve results over time.

Additionally, consistent waxing may stimulate collagen production in the upper layers of the skin, subtly improving skin tone and texture. Since waxing requires less frequent maintenance than shaving, it also reduces repeated friction and irritation, which can be beneficial for long-term skin health.

Key Differences Between Waxing and Shaving 

What Research Says About Skin Health 

Research and dermatologists tend to agree on several key points:

• Shaving is less painful but, when done frequently, can compromise the skin’s natural barrier.
• Waxing may cause short-term redness or sensitivity, but with regular use, it can improve skin texture.
• Ingrown hairs are more common with shaving, particularly in individuals with curly or coarse hair types.
• The exfoliation that naturally occurs during waxing can help keep the skin clearer and reduce congestion.

Understanding Hair Regrowth Speed:

Hair regrowth rate ≈

• 1.25 mm/week for shaving
• 0.33 mm/week for waxing

This indicates that waxing significantly slows the regrowth cycle, keeping the skin smoother for a longer period.

Skin health is closely tied to your hair removal habits. Frequent shaving can leave your skin with little time to recover, weakening its protective barrier and increasing dryness, irritation, and sensitivity.

In contrast, waxing gives the skin more time to heal between sessions, supporting better moisture retention and skin resilience over time.

Ultimately, choosing the method that best suits your skin type, lifestyle, and sensitivity can make a noticeable difference in how healthy and comfortable your skin feels.

Which One is More Hygienic?

While both hair removal methods can be hygienic when done properly, waxing is often regarded as the more hygienic option:

• It removes hair from the root, reducing the chance of residue or regrowth within days.
• There’s less frequent contact with the skin compared to shaving, which means fewer opportunities for bacteria to spread.
• Many professional waxes contain antibacterial ingredients, offering added protection during treatment.

That said, proper aftercare is essential for both methods. Be sure to:

• Gently cleanse the treated area after hair removal.
  Avoid scratching or touching the skin unnecessarily.
• Apply a suitable moisturiser to keep the skin hydrated and calm.

When it comes to shaving, maintaining hygiene requires additional care. Razors should be:

• Replaced frequently: a dull blade increases the risk of nicks, irritation, and infection.
• Stored in a dry area: to prevent bacterial growth from moisture exposure in bathrooms.

Visiting reputable salons or spas, using clean tools, and following proper technique will go a long way in keeping your skin safe, no matter which method you choose.

What Works Best for Sensitive Skin? 

For those with sensitive skin, waxing is often the preferred choice, even if it comes with a brief sting. Here’s why:

• Shaving every 2 to 3 days can lead to frequent irritation, razor burn, and dryness.
• Waxing allows the skin time to recover between sessions, as it’s typically done every 3 to 6 weeks.
• There’s no daily scraping of the skin’s surface with a razor, which can wear down the skin barrier over time.

That said, care is still needed. Sensitive skin may react to certain ingredients in waxing products. To stay safe:

• Patch test any new wax or aftercare product before full use.
• Choose fragrance-free moisturisers or cooling gels to soothe the skin post-treatment.
• Warm wax (rather than cold wax strips) is often gentler and more effective for sensitive skin.
• For best results, consider professional waxing; experienced therapists can minimise skin trauma and tailor treatment to your needs.

With the right technique and aftercare, waxing can be a skin-friendly option, even for those with delicate or easily irritated skin.

Pros and Cons at a Glance 

Other Things to Consider 

Your skin’s response to hair removal isn’t just about the method; factors like hormones, age, and even climate all play a role.

For instance, in humid environments, excess sweat can mix with irritation from shaving and lead to breakouts. In cold, dry weather, shaving may worsen flakiness and sensitivity. Waxing, although not entirely immune to climate effects, often delivers more consistent results across different conditions.

Age matters too. Teenagers might find that their skin tolerates shaving better, while mature skin may benefit more from waxing’s gentle exfoliation, which can improve texture over time.

Think about your lifestyle as well:

• Athletes often choose waxing for its longer-lasting smoothness.
• Those with hectic schedules may prefer the quick ease of shaving.

Planning a holiday or special event? Waxing in advance can give you weeks of smooth skin with no need for frequent touch-ups. On the other hand, for last-minute plans, shaving might be the more practical option.

Ready to Treat Your Skin to Something Better?

Book a professional waxing appointment at Meridian Spa and enjoy smooth, refreshed skin with confidence.
Our expert therapists are here to help you feel your best, comfortably, safely, and beautifully.