Alternative ways to get a hairless bikini line if laser isn't your thing

It’s that time of year again - the weather’s warming up, the sun is coming out, and women everywhere are feeling pressured to have the perfect bikini body in time for beach season.

Whether you subscribe to this or not, there’s no denying that summer can be a stressful time for women. And unfortunately the pressure extends far beyond flat stomachs and dimple-free butts. Achieving a hairless body (minus the hair on your head which should be thick, luscious and rival Rapuntzel’s at all times) has long been an expected part of a woman’s summer prep routine.

But luckily, times are changing. Many women are pushing back on these expectations and embracing their natural body hair. We couldn’t be happier about this shift and we’re all about you doing what you want to do with your own body hair. It’s your hair, your body, your rules. If you want to grow out your bikini line, do it! But if you still prefer some grooming down there, we’re here to help.

And while more and more Australians are opting for permanent options like IPL, there’s still a fair few of us who’d rather not shoot laser beams into our private parts just to feel bikini body ready.

So for those of us looking to give our downstairs a little spring cleaning, here are five alternative ways to get a hairless bikini line if laser isn’t your thing.

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Shaving

Shaving is probably the hair removal tactic we’re most familiar with. It involves using a razor or clippers to cut the hair at surface level.

Pros: Shaving is quick and easy so it’s a great option if you’re in a pinch. It’s painless (unless you nick yourself!) and is suitable for all hair types. It only requires a razor and soap or shaving cream, all of which you can find at most grocery stores and pharmacies. 

Cons: Though suitable for all hair types, shaving is not always suitable for all skin types. Those with sensitive skin may be more prone to issues like razor burn and ingrown hairs. Shaving is also a short-term fix, so expect stubble to appear within a few days.

Tips: To avoid nicking and razor burn, make sure the hair has a chance to soften by taking a warm shower or bath prior to shaving and allow enough time for the hair to grow back (3-6 days usually) before going in again. If you’re prone to ingrown hairs, try gently exfoliating the area a few days after shaving. 

bh recommends: Schick Hydro Silk Disposable Razor and Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Wax Strips

Wax strips are fabric material (usually some type of cotton-blend) used in combination with soft wax. To use, apply warm wax in the direction of hair growth, press the strips onto the wax, then pull them off in the opposite direction in one quick motion.

Pros: Waxing in general is a great way to achieve long-lasting results, as you’re pulling the hair out from the root. Strips are also easily accessible in grocery stores or pharmacies and easy to use, even for beginners.

Cons: Unfortunately, waxing has the reputation of being one of the most painful forms of hair removal. Wax strips, while easy to use, are not all made equally and using poor quality strips can result in tearing and ineffective hair removal. Cue: A patchy bikini line that’s far from cute.

Tips: It’s imperative to ensure the hair is long enough for waxing to be effective. You should also avoid sun exposure and using chemical exfoliants a few days before and after waxing, as the area will be very sensitive. 

bh recommends: Waxaway Wax Strips and Waxaway Warm Wax

Bead Wax

Bead wax has been gaining in online popularity recently, and not just because it looks cool on Instagram. This modern waxing technique involves heating up wax beads that melt into a hard wax formula. Which means you can just apply the wax, let it dry, and then let it rip. Yes - without strips! 

Pros: Many people find bead waxing slightly less painful than using wax strips, but with the same long-lasting benefits. The fact that it’s strip-less also means less waste.

Cons: Beaded wax is usually more expensive and is still considered one of the more painful ways to remove hair compared to non-waxing techniques.

Tips: Melting the beads into wax can be the most challenging part of the process. Ensure you leave the wax on long enough to turn into a honey consistency, but not too long that it becomes watery. It’s also important to be mindful when applying the wax. Try your best to smooth it on, going in the direction of hair growth (as you’ll be pulling it off against the grain).

bh recommends: Nads Charcoal Bead Wax

Sugaring

Sugaring is an ancient form of hair removal similar to waxing. It combines lemon juice, sugar, and water into a thick consistency, which is then pulled in the direction of the hair. 

Pros: Many claim it’s less painful than traditional waxing and there have been reports that on-going sugaring can actually lead to stunting hair growth. The sustainable concoction also acts as a natural exfoliant for the skin, leaving you hairless and glowing!

Cons: You need to leave about five weeks between sugaring appointments, which will leave you nice and fuzzy for a while. And yes, we do recommend booking appointments for your sugaring rather than trying it at home, as the practice is complex and results can be difficult to achieve at home.

bh recommends: Hitting the salon!

Depilatory Cream

Depilatory Creams are like a right of passage for teenage girls and are often the first form of hair removal many women experience. These creams are usually a lotion or foam consistency that, when lathered onto skin, have a chemical reaction breaking down the hair, which then washes away and leaves you with smooth, hairless skin.

Pros: The least painful method of hair removal, depilatory creams work similar to a chemical exfoliant and allow you to quite literally wipe your unwanted hair away. They’re most effective for areas that are hard to reach. 

Cons: They can smell. Bad. This is because of their strong chemical blend, which of course, may cause an allergic reaction or sensitivity. These creams also only break down hair at the surface, meaning the results usually only last a few days. 

Tips: We advise doing a patch test first to ensure you don’t experience a reaction to the formula. If all good, ensure you lather the area completely and follow the directions for timing and removal. 

Bh recommends: Nair Sensitive Hair Removal Cream Face and Body

Do you remove your body hair? What method do you use?

Main image via @sheamarie