Safe Hair Removal Options During Pregnancy

When you become pregnant, your body begins to change. However, not only will you see your tummy growing, you also may notice other changes. For example, products that you used for skincare, even for many years, suddenly are starting to irritate your skin. This may cause you to wonder what products and treatments can be safe for your body.

An often unclear topic is hair removal during pregnancy. Having smooth skin is something most women don’t want to give up while pregnant. Of course, they shouldn’t have to! However, during pregnancy, hair removal can prove challenging.

So what hair removal options are safe and effective when you’re pregnant? There are many misconceptions surrounding this topic. Let’s clear things up for you and talk about how to safely remove unwanted hair from your body while you’re expecting.

Let’s start with a classic–shaving

This usually isn’t the first method you may opt for, as its effects are fairly short-term. However, this is the safest form of hair removal during pregnancy. Shaving with specially contoured women’s razors can allow you to quickly and safely remove unwanted hair. There are a few things you’ll need to remember, for example, to change the razors regularly and to properly prepare parts of your body you’ll want to shave.

Another important thing to remember is to use a shaving foam, gel, or if you’re out of both, a hair conditioner. These products are formulated to moisturize the skin and soften the hair, allowing for a more efficient removal. For your comfort, it’ll probably be best to shave in the bathtub, but if you only have a shower, that’ll be great as well.

If an accident happens and you cut your skin, be sure to disinfect the wound. During pregnancy, the skin is more sensitive and delicate, so it’s more prone to irritation. However, if you shave properly, use dedicated products, and treat any cuts, your skin should be fine and hair-free.

Cut-free option–hair removal cream

Most hair removal creams are safe and tested products that can be used during pregnancy. However, with your skin being more sensitive during this time, some creams may cause an allergic reaction. Performing an allergy skin test prior is key. If no allergic reaction on a small patch of skin occurs after 24 hours, you can go ahead and use the cream.

This type of hair removal is painless and relatively quick. All you need to do is apply cream to the desired area and wait 3-5 minutes, then remove the cream with the included spatula or rinse it off by gently rubbing the skin with a sponge. Of course, here the method may vary depending on the company. Next, the treated area must be thoroughly washed with water and soap or shower gel. 

After using such a cream, hair usually grows back after a few days. You can also use a special cream that delays hair regrowth, which will also soothe your skin. However, during pregnancy, hair has a tendency to grow faster, which is why essentially all hair removal methods have a shorter-term effect.

How about waxing?

Waxing is a safe method even for expecting mothers. It’s upsides definitely include the more long-term effect waxing provides. Even with faster growing hair, you can enjoy smooth skin for up to a few weeks. However, there are more issues surrounding this method than in the case of classic shaving. 

As mentioned earlier, during pregnancy, your skin becomes more sensitive. This may cause you to feel more pain during the procedure and may lead to bruising. If you do opt for waxing, we recommend you visit a beauty salon. A professional will be able to better handle your needs during this exceptional time.

Absolute no-nos

Hair removal methods that include the use of electricity, lasers, or ultrasounds are strictly forbidden. Even if you’re still trying for a baby, you may want to give up the laser hair removal treatment. During the first few weeks you may not even know you’re pregnant, as symptoms may have yet to kick in. For your baby’s safety and your peace of mind opt for other methods of hair removal during that period.

Remember, if you still have any doubts, reach out to your doctor! They’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.