If you’ve ever used a razor, you’re more likely than not familiar with the dreaded razor burn, which refers to little bumps that develop on your skin after you’ve finished shaving.

While not a serious medical condition, it can nonetheless be very irritating, leading to side effects like tenderness, itchiness, and even a burning sensation. In best case scenarios, razor burn is a temporary condition that will eventually go away on its own, but there are measures you can take to treat razor burn if you want to deal with it quickly or you’re having persistent issues.

So if you’re wondering how to soothe razor burn quickly and easily, we’re letting you know the best methods and ingredients to give you relief.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a great way to treat razor burn as it contains anti-inflammatory agents that can lessen inflammation, tame any itching, and safeguard against infection. In order to make the perfect apple cider vinegar ointment, do the following:

• Dip a cotton ball into some apple cider vinegar and treat the area affected by razor burn
• Permit it to dry and then use water to wash off the apple cider
• Repeat this process two or three times daily until  you get rid of the burning feeling.

If your skin is sensitive, be sure to dilute the apple cider vinegar using water before applying it on your skin.

2. Aspirin

You probably already have a bottle in your medicine cabinet, but you can easily pick some up at your neighborhood drugstore if you don’t have any on hand. With aspirin, you can treat your razor burn fast and effectively due to the anti-inflammatory agents. Follow these steps:

• Place a couple of aspirins into a single teaspoon of warm water and allow them to dissolve into paste.
• Apply the paste to the razor burn area and let it sit there for 10 minutes before using lukewarm water to wash it off.
• Repeat the process a couple of times a day.

  

3. Aloe Vera

You can easily pick up some aloe vera at your neighborhood supermarket. It will help to sooth the irritated area due to the cooling nature of the plant. As well, it will moisturize your skin and facilitate healing. In order to make the most of aloe vera as a treatment, follow these steps:

• Get an aloe vera leaf and obtain aloe vera gel from it.
• Apply the gel to the razor burn area, allow it to dry on, and then use cold water to rinse it away.
• Repeat this process two or three times daily for two or three days.

4. Honey

Honey contains antibacterial agents that can be used to treat your razor burn problem by lessening inflammation and swelling. The process as follows is simple:

• Put some honey on your razor burn area, permit it to dry.
• Use cold water to wash it off.

5. Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is great for soothing skin irritation, and there are a couple of ways that you can use lavender essential oil to treat your razor burn. The two methods are:

• First Option: Add 10 drops of lavender essential oil to half a cup of cold water. Dip a cotton ball into the mixture, apply it to the razor burn area, allow it to dry, and repeat this process two times a day.

• Second Option: Put eight drops of lavender essential oil to a quarter of a cup of carrier oil such as almond oil or olive oil, and then rub the mixture on the affected area.

If you’ve been wondering how to soothe razor burn, these home remedy tips will provide you with ways to get the relief you’re looking for. So the next time you encounter this problem, you’ll know exactly what to do to gain the relief you want.

However, if the problem persists–be sure to look for products that can be more effective in treating razor burn.  Sometimes home remedies are just not enough!

Some beauty purists only shop for organic ingredients or vegan-only products. But it’s the cruelty-free mark that is the do or die for many cosmetics enthusiasts. Beauty doesn’t have to come at the cost of an animal’s life or welfare, and more buyers are demanding and actively seeking out the bunny emblem that represents the mark of cruelty free products.

In the past, choices were limited for cruelty-free cosmetics, and the search was often grueling or budget breaking. In today’s ethically-driven market, though, more and more companies are going cruelty-free. Finding the best ethical products on the market can be a matter of opinion, however, because what works for one person might be a miss on another individual’s skin.

Cruelty Free International holds the mark of the Leaping Bunny that is associated with their cruelty free certification. On the organization’s site, buyers can search for brands that are cruelty-free as well as vegan or vegetarian brands. You can narrow your search by product type or just type in a company name to see if it is Leaping Bunny approved.

Besides the Leaping Bunny, buyers may see another bunny on noted cruelty-free brands. The bunny face with heart-shaped ears belongs to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). When buyers see this label, they also can be assured that the item was not tested on animals. PETA allows consumers to download an app to search for all the companies that bear their bunny symbol.

The beauty of cruelty-free products is that many of them are often reasonably priced for the value as well as ethical. Many major brands feature a bunny label denoting cruelty-free. However, many major brands still haven’t made the switch. For more information about cruelty-free products and animal testing in the beauty industry, check out the infographic below:

Ingrown hairs develop when hair becomes trapped underneath the skin or grows back into the skin after shaving.

Did you know that when a hair is under the skin, your body doesn’t see a difference between that hair and a splinter? Your body will fight it like a foreign object, which can lead to infection, resulting in painful and inflamed skin.

If the problem is left untreated, you can even end up with unsightly scar tissue! For those who suffer from ingrown hairs, the experience can cause discomfort and even a decline in self-confidence.

However, there are ways to prevent ingrown hairs and they are related to two very important personal shaving practices: using sharp blades and proper lubrication. Here is the rundown on how to improve your shaving techniques if you want to prevent ingrown hairs.

Avoid Dull Blades While Shaving

If we had to choose the #1 rule for safe shaving to prevent ingrown hairs, we’d say avoid using dull blades at ALL costs. Unfortunately, most blades are not made from good quality steel, which is why so many become dull even after one or two uses. The general rule of thumb is if the blade’s appearance changes and it no longer looks new, it is time to replace it!

If you really want to prevent ingrown hairs, never EVER use a dull blade. Since dull blades take more pressure for the same shave, they drag against the skin, causing irritation, and irritated skin is the perfect environment for ingrown hairs and infection. Indeed, as the skin swells from the irritation, it is more likely to trap individual hairs below its surface.

Dull blades also tend to cut the hairs unevenly, resulting in jagged edges, which poke back into skin and become ingrown.By now it should be clear you need to throw out those dull razors and buy some fresh ones if you want to prevent ingrown hairs!

Properly Lubricate to Prevent Ingrown Hairs

The 2nd most important rule of safe shaving is to lubricate properly!  A lubricating product will soften and moisturize the skin, making it much easier to shave. For the best results, avoid harsh, soap-based lubricants like shaving foams. Often, these soap-based products remove the skin’s natural oils, which results in a more difficult shave as the blade struggles and scrapes against the skin.

For a healthier shaving experience, try a silicone-based lubricant instead. A silicon-based product helps the razor glide smoothly across the skin, working with it and not against it. That way you cut the hair and not your delicate skin!

When it comes to personal shaving practices, using sharp blades in addition to silicone-based products can help to prevent ingrown hairs. Yes, these simple changes will make all the difference!

So, you’ve got an ingrown hair. It’s painful, scratchy, inflamed, and downright annoying. While they can be irritating and at times embarrassing, know that there is always a solution to the problem of how to stop ingrown hairs before they get infected. In fact, this solution should be sought as soon as the ingrown hair is observed, because if you let it linger, the site could become infected and lead to further complications.

Recognizing an infection is quite simple. If you have any of the following symptoms, treat the ingrown hair immediately:

• Red, pimple-like appearance
• Swelling
• Itching
• A bump that grows larger or fills with pus

An infected ingrown hair can be serious business. Besides being unsightly, an infected ingrown hair is a painful experience and can cause permanent scarring. In extreme cases, an ingrown hair may even become a cyst, a white or yellow fluid-filled sac! That’s enough of a reason to take care of ingrown hairs before they get infected.

How to Stop Ingrown Hairs

To avoid ingrown hairs in the first place, reevaluate your shaving routine. Always exfoliate the area to be shaved prior to actually shaving, so that the hairs that might have gotten caught under the skin will be brought to the surface. Use as few strokes as possible to avoid irritation. This will also lower the likelihood of the hair being caught under the skin, or hairs that were already cut working their way back into any miniscule holes or tears in the skin. Be sure to rinse the razor blade after every stroke to minimize this risk.

Most importantly, never shave with a dull blade and remember never to use a quality silicone shave gel, which helps the razor to glide over skin without creating irritation. After shaving, place a cool towel or washcloth on the skin to reduce any immediate inflammation. Due to the temperature difference, this action will also tighten the skin and close the pores, preventing any dirt or bacteria from entering into the skin and infecting it.

Soothe Ingrown Hairs

Even following these tips when shaving, it is still possible to develop ingrown hairs. It’s not your fault, you did your best! But people with coarse or curly hair are more likely to experience this problem, as the hair doesn’t always grow straight out of the follicle. Our tips will help reduce the amount of ingrown hairs, but they may not eliminate them completely.

So when ingrown do appear it’s important to take steps to prevent infections. Keep the area clean and never try to dig out an ingrown hair with tweezers! Doing so may increase the chances of infection and could lead to permanent scarring.

Remember to stop shaving the affected area until the ingrown hair has completely healed. Soak the ingrown hair with a warm, wet cloth daily and be patient. If the ingrown hairs persist, consider investing in a specialty product.

Take care when you shave to prevent ingrown hairs, and if ingrown hairs do occur, take good care of them. If you follow the tips above then you may just stop ingrown hairs before they get infected!

During pregnancy your body goes through many different changes, and your skin is no exception. From weight retention to stretch marks to other changes in appearance, your body responds in many ways as you await the arrival of your new bundle of joy. This is why it is so important for pregnant women to take extra steps when it comes to their skincare routines while pregnant. Here are some of the top ways in which expectant mothers can take care of their skin for the healthiest, most radiant glow throughout the duration of their pregnancy.

#1 Reduce Stress

Stress can leave many damaging effects on the skin including fine lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet. What’s worse is that stress can even be harmful for the growing baby. One useful way to remedy stress levels is through meditation. Meditation helps to clear your mind and organize your thoughts. Remaining calm will help to relax your facial muscles so that stress-induced skin conditions are halted in their tracks.

#2 Increase Water Intake

Drinking plenty of water during pregnancy is a very important step towards keeping your skin hydrated and supple. Doctors recommended expectant mothers drink at least two liters of water per day. Drinking enough water will not only hydrate the skin, it will remove harmful toxins from the body and keep amniotic fluid levels high for a healthy growing environment for your little one.

#3 Get a Good Night’s Rest

A full night’s sleep will do wonders for your skin. Medical professionals recommend expectant mothers get a full 8-10 hours of sleep per night. Ample sleep will reduce the likelihood of dark circles and bags under your eyes, and it will leave you feeling energized and ready to conquer the day!

#4 Eat Healthy Foods

When you eat the wrong foods, your skin will show it.  Unhealthy foods, junk foods, and fast foods should be avoided whenever possible. The right balance of nutrients and vitamins will leave your skin looking and feeling its best throughout the pregnancy.

#5 Use Sunscreen

Direct sunlight can be detrimental to the skin. This is why pregnant mothers should always use sunscreen before going outside. The sun’s harmful UV rays can result in painful sunburn, which increases the chance of skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend using an SPF of 30 or higher for the best skin protection while outdoors.

#6 Be Careful With Hair Removal

Maintaining the bikini area, with an ever-expanding belly is a big challenge for any mother-to-be. You definitely should not just shave blind, since any activity down there with a sharp razor needs to be supervised! Try using a hand mirror or asking your partner for help. Though in the end, maybe letting it go for nine months isn’t the worst thing in the world. You can always trim it up once the baby’s here!

#7 The Right Soap Matters

Do not underestimate the power of the right soap for your skin. For the best results, avoid harsh soaps that leave your face and body feeling dry. Such soaps are notorious for removing the natural oil secretions your skin produces. Instead, use soaps that have added moisturizing compounds. Such soaps will not only clean your skin, they will also leave it looking and feeling its best.

#8 Use Reputable Beauty Products

Many pregnant mothers do not consider the brands of the products they apply to their skin. Some less than reputable brands are full of harsh chemicals that damage the skin and can even harm the baby. Consider specialty, branded products that have proven results along with a strong reputation to match.

#9 Remove Makeup Before Bedtime

Remember to remove makeup prior to bedtime. Sleeping in makeup can cause skin irritations such as rashes or acne and it can even lead to infections if it gets into your eyes. Always remove makeup prior to falling asleep for the night.

Remember, take care of your skin during pregnancy. By following these simple eight steps, your skin will look and feel radiant and glowing for your entire pregnancy.

While perhaps not the longest lasting form of hair removal, shaving is so popular because it is cost effective, quick, and easy for most of us who are always on the run.   It won’t cost you much to buy razors, shaving cream, and any post shaving treatments you decide to use, while it could set you back $50 to $80 per hour for hair removal via electrolysis. While low-tech and cheap, shaving is nonetheless effective.

Despite the positives of shaving, though, there are some bizarre, head-scratching, eyebrow-raising myths that have been so often repeated that they have almost become fact to some people. But a myth, no matter how often repeated or widely spread, is still a myth.

In order to shed some light on the matter, here are 10 shaving myths you need to stop believing:

Shaving Causes Hair to Grow Back Quicker & Darker

While this statement has been made many times over the years, there simply isn’t an ounce of truth to it. Your hair, when it does finally grow back after shaving it, will be the same color that it was before. It might appear as though it is a bit darker in hue, however, since it will obviously be shorter as it starts to grow back. This may contribute to the illusion that it’s darker. However, you will notice that it really is the same color as before if you allow your hair to grow back.

Shaving Causes Ingrown Hairs

This one might catch you by surprise, but shaving itself is not the root cause of ingrown hairs. What really leads to ingrown hairs is the state of the skin and the blade. You can reduce, if not eliminate the chances of, ingrown hairs if you exfoliate and regularly replace your razor blades. So if you plan to shave with a razor, exfoliate first so that hair does not poke back down into your skin as it begins to grow back.

Hair Becomes More Coarse When it Grows Back

Even though your hair will feel coarser than per usual as it starts to grow back, it will be back to its normal texture as it gets back to the length it was before you cut it.

There’s Nothing Wrong with Dry Shaving

Even if you’re pressed for time, it’s never a good idea to dry shave — which refers to putting razor to skin without the benefit of some sort of lubricating agent like shaving cream. If you do dry shave, you will have to deal with problems like skin irritation and possibly cuts that can lead to infection. So take the time to provide your skin with the proper moisture before you begin shaving.

New Razors Nick More than Used Razors

It goes without saying that a new razor will be sharper than a used one, but instances where people cut themselves with a new razor are usually a function of them putting too much downward pressure on the razor. So simply don’t press down too hard. Also consider that a cut from an older razor is actually worse than a cut from a new razor since the latter can lead to infections on account of the bacteria that is on the razor. Also, a new razor’s sharper blades will scrape your skin less, which will help you avoid razor burns and ingrown hairs.

It’s Okay to Put On Deodorant Right After You Shave Your Armpits

It’s a good idea to avoid using deodorant right after you shave your armpits. While it might possibly be okay if your deodorant is has no fragrance or alcohol, why take the chance? It’s better to wait at least one hour after you shave your armpits to apply deodorant. That way, you’ll be able to avoid any irritation that might otherwise occur.

It’s Alright to Keep Razors in the Shower

This is a no-no. While the razor will obviously get wet when in use, you will still need to wash it off, dry it, and store it in a dry place between uses. If your razor is kept in a wet place like the shower, it can become home to bacteria and rust. So store it in a dry place to avoid these complications.

You Should Shave Right After Getting into the Shower

For best results, you should allow the hot or warm water to soften your hair before you use your razor. So you can take your usual shower or bath and then end things by shaving.

More Pressure Means a Better Shave

While it might seem logical that pressing down harder will result in a closer shave, the truth is that this not only untrue, but also potentially dangerous. The way that the razor blades are positioned is already designed to provide a close shave with good contact with the skin. If you press down too hard, you could be left with cuts, and these cuts could go on to become infected.

You Can Head to the Beach Right After Shaving

Actually, you shouldn’t go to the beach or swimming right after shaving, particularly if you have sensitive skin. If your skin is sensitive and not properly hydrated, it can become dried out. Then you could potentially be susceptible to rashes if your dry skin comes into contact with salt water or sand from the beach. Instead, shave at least one day prior to going down to the sea shore.

These 10 shaving myths have been repeated so often over the years and decades that they’ve almost gained the status of common knowledge. The problem with this, of course, is that common knowledge is sometimes very wrong. And this is definitely the case when it comes to shaving myths that have made the rounds. Understanding what’s true and what’s false can help you to get the best results and to avoid problems. So stop holding on to fables that might be compromising your shaving experience. Happy shaving!

Both men and women are susceptible to unsightly razor bumps that appear after shaving, waxing, or plucking the hair. Razor bumps, which manifest as red, irritated, and even itchy areas of inflammation on the skin, are a direct result of the hair removal process.

While razor bumps are a common condition that many people experience, there are still many people who do not fully understand the causes or how to properly treat them. If you have ever asked, “What are razor bumps and how do I stop them?” Here are a few quick tips on how to effectively prevent them for a smoother appearance.

So, What are Razor Bumps Really?

Razor bumps, also referred to as pseudofolliculitis barbae or razor burn, are painful bumps that can appear on the skin after shaving. These bumps can show up almost immediately or they can take a few days to develop.

There are two types of razor bumps. The first, extrafollicular, occurs when the individual hair follicle curls back into the skin after shaving. When the skin heals, the hair becomes trapped underneath the skin, resulting in unpleasant pimple-like bumps, soreness, and inflammation.

The second type of razor bump, transfollicular, occurs when the hair grows out of the skin but then reenters it, leaving a portion of the hair exposed. Overtime, if the razor bumps are not given the proper care and attention they need, you may end up with permanent scars!

What Causes Razor Bumps?

While anyone can get razor bumps, those with curly or tightly coiled hair are more prone to developing them. Razor bumps can also be the direct result of poor hair removal techniques. . Not properly preparing the skin prior to shaving can also cause these bumps.

Dry shaving is a culprit as well, so properly moisturizing the skin and hairs is a crucial first step prior to shaving. Also, using a thick shaving gel helps the blade glide along the face, for a much smoother shave. High-quality shavers (whether disposable or electric) can also help to reduce the likelihood of razor bumps. Replace blades often and according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best outcome.

Solutions for Razor Bumps

One of the best ways to get rid of razor bumps is to improve your personal shaving techniques.  Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Properly moisturize the skin prior to shaving. Always use a quality silicone-based shave gel to moisturize the area that is to be shaved.
• Replace razor blades often. Old, dull blades will only irritate and scrape against the skin, increasing the likelihood of ingrown hairs and bumps.
• Follow-up shaving by rinsing with cool water, as this closes the pores. For aftercare, use a moisturizing cream or other skincare product to keep the skin soft, reducing the likelihood and appearance of razor bumps.
• Lastly, hold off on shaving if razor bumps are currently present. This is important because it will give the skin the necessary time it needs to properly heal itself.

Rest assured that with the proper skin care routine, razor bumps can be a concern of the past!

Ingrown hairs, those that have curled back into the skin instead of growing away from it, can be a painful nuisance. This condition can impact men and women alike. When trying to remove hair, there are approaches that make people more susceptible to ingrown hairs.

Ingrown hairs look like a small bump or group of bumps on the skin. They can become red and irritated and itch or feel otherwise uncomfortable. In men, ingrown hairs are most common on the chin, cheeks, or neck. Ladies suffer from this condition generally on their legs, pubic areas, or armpits.

If you want to avoid ingrown hairs, then here are four ways of removing hair that you should stay away from.

Shaving with Dull or Clogged Razors

Shaving is one of the most common hair removal techniques that both men and women use on a regular basis. While a simple process, overlooking certain key issues can lead to painful ingrown hairs. Using a dull or unclean razor is one way that causes hairs to curl back into the skin.

Dull razors can scrape the skin causing irritation, which leads to ingrown hairs. Sharp, new blade razors should be used in conjunction with a thick shaving gel. Discard razors after 6-8 uses to best avoid developing razor bumps.

Shaving without Shaving Gels

Shaving gels protect the skin from being tugged and scraped by the blade. Without shaving gels, both men and women are more prone to experience cuts and nicks during the process. Shaving gel will help to keep your skin hydrated and make the hair easier to cut.

Failure to Exfoliate Before Waxing

Waxing can lead to ingrown hairs if it’s not carefully done.In fact, waxing is one of the worst culprits for causing ingrown hairs. To guard against this condition in waxed areas, exfoliating is a vital tool. It buffs away dead skin cells that build up and prevent new hair growth from emerging from the clogged pores!

Using Depilatory Creams

Depilatory creams contain chemicals that dissolve the hair at the skin’s surface. They offer an inexpensive alternative to shaving. They are also less painful than waxing. In this case, the hair is dissolved rather than being cut which does reduce the risk. However, ingrown hairs can still result from the use the depilatory creams. To minimize irritation that can lead to ingrown hairs, it’s best to use the creams according to the directions and not leave them on longer than suggested – no longer than 5 minutes.

While these creams are less painful, they can be harsh for those with very sensitive skin. They also posses a strong odor that can be a problem.

Hair removal is an essential part of the grooming process. Paying attention to key issues associated with your technique of choice will help you avoid irritation and the ingrown hairs that  make the hair removal process a pain.

If you’re planning a trip to the spa, be careful. When it comes to waxing intimate parts of our body, there should be clear sets of needs and expectations in place. When exposing our skin and hair follicles to this type of an invasive treatment, we’re opening ourselves to all sorts of infection, so keeping an eye open for salon red flags is a must.

These treatments are given OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Association) protection practices, guidelines and laws that are put into place to avoid harming customers. But this doesn’t mean these establishments are following these rules and regulations to the letter of the law on a daily basis.

As smart consumers, we must open our eyes and be on the lookout for potential problems before we commit to using these services, especially when removing hair from our body. Let’s look at seven important salon red flags that could burn you as a customer:

1 – Forms First

Even when going to see our physician for a routine checkup, the office always give you a form to fill out, whether or not your information has changed. There needs to be some documentation (or at the very least an in depth conversation) about your vital information, new or existing allergies and other potentially problematic data to consider before your session.

2 – Garnishing Gloves

Your technician should always be wearing gloves, always! Again no matter how routine or regular the procedure or your familiarity with this individual, this is simply a must!

3 – Out of Pocket

Tools of the trade (like tweezers) should never be seen in the pockets of these workers, even if they’re simply carrying them away after your treatment. They should always be kept in a safe and sterile environment and not travelling around in someone’s pocket in between applications. You never know where they’ve been or where they’re going!

4 – Wax On – Wax Off

When getting a waxing, make sure the pots being used are for you and you alone. They should be clean, fresh and not leftover from a previous treatment. In the same light, keep an eye on the spatulas or other tools that are being used as they shouldn’t be laying around inside the waxing pots when not in use. Think of it this way, since the practice of “double-dipping” is unacceptable at parties, it shouldn’t be a part of your salon experience either.

5 – After Care

These skin-care professionals should always recommend detailed instructions and products for aftercare following their services instead of simply giving you an invoice at the end of this visit. These providers need to care about you and your ongoing health, not just when you’re paying the bill.

6 – Language Barriers

If you feel there is a language barrier with the staff, this could be a huge, potentially problematic situation. Confusion leads to chaos and communication is key with any type of service being rendered, especially when it comes to something being performed on your body. Trust your gut, especially when it comes to things happening with your skin in a salon where you may feel uncomfortable communicating.

7 – A Clean Environment

This almost goes without saying, but this entire environment should always be completely clean and pristine at all times, everywhere from the lobby to the restrooms. The only possible exception is that one of the staff is actively cleaning an area when you arrive that seems to be out of place or unclean.

Even though it may seem like a routine and regular visit, cleanliness, a completely sterile environment, safety practices, and legal measures are put into place for a reason – your overall health and safety. You never know where (or when) a little slip might cause a big problem for your body and health.

Body hair is rooted in two divided camps: those who have embraced their natural growth and others who try every means possible to remove those pesky tendrils. Bella Thorne posted a photo on Snapchat where she was shown licking her underarm hair. The message was a clear blast to anyone who tried to shame her for daring to grow out what we normally remove.

Love the furry look or hate it, we all have body hair. Whether we choose to embrace it, grow it out or remove it with every tool at our disposal, hairiness is our natural mammalian feature. For those that want to get rid of it, though, the means to remove the unwanted body hair can be downright painful…and dangerous. Plucking, waxing, laser removal, and tweezing all can harm our sensitive skin.

While, yes, we might want smooth, baby-soft skin, torturing those hair follicles is no way to achieve a silky smooth complexion. If you’re spending your summer nights with hot wax, a pair of tweezers, or hair-removal cream, you could be doing more harm than good in your plight for hairlessness.

Laser Hair Removal

The permanence of laser hair removal is its ultimate appeal, but what many don’t know is that those laser removal procedures can go horribly, horribly wrong.

The issues of laser hair removal don’t just deal with your skin, but your body as a whole. According to an article in Elle, a recent study by Gary S. Chuang, a dermatological surgeon, found that laser hair removal emits numerous harmful chemicals into the air. While the article in Elle pointed out that doctors are most at risk, the idea of anyone breathing in chemicals from the destruction of hair (and possible bacteria) is more than a little unsettling.

An article by Roni Caryn Rabin in The New York Times noted even more risk factors. When wielded by the wrong practitioner, a laser hair removal procedure can cause severe burns, injuries…and, in rare cases, death.

In her article, Rabin interviewed Dr. Tina Alster, who is the founding director of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery and also a clinical professor of dermatology at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

“There’s a perception by the public that anybody can do this,” Dr. Alster told the New York Times. “People need to remember, it’s not the laser doing the work, it’s the operator.”

While all cosmetic laser procedures carry a risk, patients should find a doctor with experience in dermatologic laser surgery. Be diligent and research practitioners. Don’t trust your face and body to just anyone.

Hair Removal Creams

While not as dangerous as a laser, hair removal creams (or depilatories) carry their own potential hazards. Yes, those creams are cheap and convenient, but, hair removal creams aren’t always effective at removing hair and they can damage or irritate your skin.

The Food and Drug Administration recommends testing a small area to see how skin reacts to the product. Be advised, though, the FDA reports that its “Office of Cosmetics and Colors has received reports of burns, blisters, stinging, itchy rashes, and skin peeling associated with depilatories and other types of cosmetic hair removers.”

Tweezing

In the 90’s, barely-there brows were all the rage. Armed with a sharp pair of tweezers, hairs were plucked one by one to create the perfect skinny brow. The caveat was that those hairs didn’t always grow back. And decades later, the tweezing trend has left bald spots in brows.

Tweezing removes the hair by the root. While tweezing is an effective form of hair removal, be very cautious when wielding tweezers. Not only does overzealous plucking leave permanent bald patches in brows (or other areas), but the procedure also may cause ingrown hairs and leave an area with bumpy, painful pimple-like blisters.

Use tweezers only for the occasional one-off hair removal…like the annoying long hair that sprouts in a random area. Invest in a good pair of tweezers when removing the hair, and be sure to disinfect skin and tweezers with witch hazel or rubbing alcohol before and after tweezing. Also, don’t forget to use something to soothe the area when you’re done.

Waxing

Waxing hurts. The procedure is enough to induce tears, and yet it remains an extremely popular way to remove those pesky hairs in the bikini area, brows, and upper lip.  However, it’s the bikini area that requires the most caution.

When entrusting anyone to smear hot wax on your most sensitive region, it’s important to be diligent in finding the right spa and the right professional. According to an article by Emma Kaywin over at Bustle, there are many risk factors to ridding the bikini line of hair with hot wax, and not all of these risks have to do with the procedure.

Hair protects the skin…it’s like a furry shield. And in the bikini area, hair works to keep away bacteria. Removing the hair also can cause irritation, which increases the risk factor for sexually transmitted diseases. Open wounds (however minute they may be) are open windows for viruses and bacteria to enter the body.

Kaywin’s article also explains that the waxing procedure isn’t without risk. Hot wax can lead to burns and even scarring, and ripping out those hairs may cause painful (and gross!) ingrown hairs.

Shaving

Most men and women still opt for the most tried and true form of hair removal: shaving. However, of all the hair removal options available, shaving is the least effective at keeping hair away. While tweezing and waxing removes hair by the root—and lasers remove it permanently—shaving just cuts off the hair at the base. Shaved hair will grow back pretty quickly, so within a day, those stubbles are back and need another pass with the razor.

While shaving is only a short term solution, at least it’s fairly safe. However, as with other hair removal techniques, there is still a risk for injury. With shaving, cuts are the most common injury…and sometimes those lacerations can be serious. To avoid cuts and irritation, make sure the blade is fresh, as dull blades cause more nicks. Use razors with more blades for a closer shave, and don’t try to save money by buying a cheap razor at the dollar store.

A close shave requires a lubricant. Coconut oil has become a favorite among beauty enthusiasts, but soap and shaving cream also works. Never dry shave, and be sure to shave with the hair…never against it. Always moisturize the skin after shaving to prevent irritation.

Every hair removal procedure has some degree of risk. Whether you wax, tweeze, opt for the permanence of lasers or DIY with creams, proceed with care. Always turn to a licensed professional when a laser is involved…or hot wax. Invest in your skin, and remove hair safely and under the care of a professional. Or channel Bella Thorne and go au natural.