When it comes to hair removal, waxing and shaving become the most popular options people rely on to get a smooth and clean skin. While both share the same goal of removing hair on the skin, there exist certain differences between them that mostly determine their longevity, skin reactions, and convenience.
So, are you new to hair removal and wondering to know which method, between shaving and waxing, and the one that is better for your skin, worth your time, and money? You’re in the right place. In this guide, are a breakdown of the differences, including how each works and their pros and cons.
- How each method works
- Pros and cons of waxing
- Pros and cons of shaving
- Side-by-side comparison of waxing and shaving
- Which one is for you?
How Each Method Works
Waxing
Waxing is a skin removal method that uses hot or cold wax to remove hair from the root. The wax is applied to the skin and sticks to the hair, and when pulled off, it removes the entire strand, including the follicle bulb. If done by a professional with the right tools and products, your skin would be smoother, and the result can last much longer.
Shaving
Shaving, on the other hand, involves cutting the hair at the surface of the skin using a razor or electric shaver. It doesn’t remove the hair from the root, so the hair grows back faster. However, it’s more convenient and faster.
Pros and Cons of Waxing
Pros
- Long-Lasting Results: It usually takes nothing less than 3-6 weeks for the hair to grow back because it is removed from the root.
- Smoother Finish: The skin mostly feels smoother because waxing not only removes hair from its root but also removes the dead skin cells.
- Finer Regrowth: Consistent waxing makes the regrowth softer, finer, and less dense.
- Reduces Ingrowth hairs over time: Waxing can decrease ingrown hairs compared to shaving, especially in sensitive areas.
- Suitable for Various Areas: Waxing is effective on any areas or parts of the body, whether small or large.
Cons
- Pain and Discomfort: Pulling the hair out from the root can cause pain and discomfort, especially for first-timers.
- Requires Hair Growth: Before you can engage in waxing, your hair needs to be about ¼ inch.
- Skin Sensitivity: Based on skin differences, some people may experience redness, bumps, or sensitivity after waxing.
- More Expensive: Compared to shaving, professional waxing is far more expensive than buying a razor. Most especially if you want to work on your legs.
Pros and Cons of Shaving
Pros
- Quick and Convenient: Shaving is faster and convenient to incorporate into your daily routine. You can easily shave anytime at home, even last minute.
- Pain-Free: Shaving is painless and comfortable when done correctly with a clean razor and shaving gel.
- Very Affordable: Razors and shaving creams are relatively inexpensive and are available in many stores.
- Safe for Most Skin Types: Shaving is more useful and safer for people with very sensitive skin that reacts to waxing.
- No Need to Wait for Regrowth: You can shave even when hair is short.
Cons
- Short-Lasting Results: Hair grows back within a short period of time, mostly 2-3 days, because it is cut at the surface.
- Razor Burn and Ingrown Hairs: Shaving can easily cause razor burns, redness, and ingrown hair. Most especially for those with sensitive skin.
- Higher Risk of Cuts: If you don’t know how to handle the razor very well, you might easily cut yourself.
- Maintenance: Shaving requires a lot of maintenance, most especially the razor. You have you make sure it’s properly preserved and maintained to prevent infections.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Waxing and Shaving
| Feature | Waxing | Shaving |
| Pain Level | High | Minimal |
| Duration | 3-6 weeks | 1-3 days |
| Smoothness | Very smooth | Smooth but short-lived |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Ingrown Hair Risk | Low | Higher |
| Skin Sensitivity | May irritate sensitive skin | Good for sensitive skin |
| Convenience | Requires appointment | Can be done quickly anytime |
Which One Is for You?
Whether you want to have a full body waxing at home or you want to engage in body shaving instead, below are some basic points to consider:
Choose Waxing if:
- You want long-lasting results.
- You can endure the pain and discomfort for better, smoother skin.
- You’re tired of shaving every few days.
- Your hair grows thick or fast.
- You want smoother skin with finer regrowth.
Choose Shaving if:
- You’re on a budget.
- You want something fast and painless.
- Your skin reacts strongly to wax.
- You don’t mind shaving every few days to maintain smooth skin.
Conclusion
Shaving and waxing are two distinct hair removal practices that offer different benefits based on individual preferences and needs. While shaving promises little to no discomfort, waxing offers a long-lasting result by removing hair from its root. Your decision ultimately depends on your skin type, how much time you want to spend, and the cost, among others.
If you are looking for at home body service or where you can get a comfortable, hygienic, and waxing therapy that is tailored to your skin in Dubai, get in touch with Nooora Beauty Concierge now and enjoy a perfect therapy session tailored just for you.



