La waxing practice, and in particular that of the intimate area of the pubis, is anchored in manners. For reasons as hygienic as aesthetic, or for criteria of seduction, the hunting of pubic hair has become widespread! In summer, more than 8 French women out of 10 wax your armpits or legs and three quarters, the jersey (Ifop) (including 22% fully). While shaving or waxing are the most common methods of waxing, the laser is on the rise. According to Dr Jean-Marc Bohbot and journalist Rica Etienne, authors of the book: “Vaginal microbiota: the pink revolution”, interviewed on France Inter (in 13/02/2018), this practice is not without risk . When raw (shaving causes, for example, small cuts), the skin becomes vulnerable to the transmission of STDs or bacteria. This is also what many American studies reveal, including the one published in the journal “Sexually Transmitted Infections”.
Is pubic hair your allies?
Considered as unsightly by our society, pubic hairs yet have a key role in the functioning of the body. Real little shields, they spare the skin from inflammation linked to the friction of clothing and block all kinds of “intruders”. Their role is also to allow the body to regulate its temperature! Advantages that give food for thought … Because beyond the risk of transmission of sexual infections, hair removal can cause “ailments” that are not so harmless to health. Which ? The appearance of ingrown hairs (on regrowth) which can turn into painful cysts, skin infections and unsightly scars inherited from cuts caused by awkward shaving.
>>> To read also: 10 tips for keeping beautiful skin in winter
Best practices for safe hair removal
Still not a fan of the “hairy” style? In this case, revise your habits to limit the risks associated with hair removal.
Notice to shaving enthusiasts: reserve this method of hair removal for small touch-ups (summer) only. The blade should be disinfected with each use and changed regularly. And, before proceeding, make sure to soap your skin well under water or to apply a shaving cream in a thick layer on the targeted parts..
For waxing enthusiasts: Prepare the ground by performing a scrub before waxing. When applying the wax, pay attention to its temperature to avoid burns to the skin. At the end of your session, remember to hydrate your skin well. Some people can be particularly reactive.
For all : the safest way to remove hair safely is to go to a beautician and follow her advice. Laser hair removal, use of a depilatory cream, she will inform you about good practices and other techniques. If you have skin inflammation or a problem, ask your dermatologist, doctor or gynecologist for advice.
* Survey on the impulses and fantasies of the French in summer / Summer Show / TF1 2017