Psst! Before you dive in… I just wanted to make sure that you didn’t miss my epic guide to hair removal for men!
Much like chest hair, the trend of removing stomach hair has become much more mainstream recently. That’s probably why there are lots of men are trying to find out a good way on how to get rid of stomach hair without shaving.
Many say it makes them feel cleaner and more groomed, while others do so because it can make abs look more defined. It’s also a common practice for sportspeople.
Is it Normal to Grow Stomach Hair?
For many people, the idea of growing hair on their stomach is an unappealing prospect. In fact, some may even find it downright repulsive. However, it’s pretty normal to have hair on your stomach, even if it’s not something you necessarily want.
There are a few reasons why you might have hair on your stomach. One is simply due to genetics. For example, you would have a good chance if your parents or grandparents had hairy stomachs. Another reason is because of hormones. Both men and women have testosterone in their bodies, which can cause hair growth, including on the stomach.
If you’re not fond of the hair on your stomach, there are several ways to remove this unwanted hair and get that smooth skin you’ve always wanted. Generally, the same goes for removing stomach hair as it does for chest hair, so I’ll keep this brief.
How to Get Rid of Stomach Hair without Shaving: the Do’s
1. Waxing
If you want to totally remove your stomach hair, waxing either with strips or a hot wax kit is a good way to go.
Why?
Long-lasting results and finer regrowth make it a favorable choice over shaving, and you can treat a large area like the stomach in a relatively short amount of time (half an hour on average).
2. Hair removal cream
Another total hair removal method that will serve to effectively clear away unwanted stomach hair is depilation. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a cream to help you remove stomach hair. These creams work by dissolving the hair shaft to remove it quickly. Unfortunately, they don’t always work as well as we’d like them to and can be quite expensive. But, if nothing else has worked, it may be worth giving them a try. Of course, nothing is guaranteed, but it’s always worth trying something new.
Here’s why:
Depilatory cream will quickly melt away your stomach hairs with zero pain, and because the skin on your stomach isn’t hugely sensitive (when compared with other parts of the body) you should be able to use it there without any adverse effects (as long as you follow the instructions).
Below is a short video about how to remove stomach hair using hair removal cream:
3. Epilation
Not going to lie:
It’s going to hurt on the stomach area. But if you can put up with the pain, you’ll set yourself up for a hair free stomach area for several weeks. Make sure you use a good quality epilator with multiple speed functions (it may seem counter-intuitive but the higher the speed the less it will hurt).
4. Laser hair removal
Whether it’s total body hair removal or just ‘thinning’ that you’re going for, laser hair removal is the most permanent at-home option for stomach hair removal.
Once you’re happy to fork out the initial investment for a good quality machine and take the time to learn to use it, it’s the most effective long-term method for stomach hair removal you can find.
You probably know what I’m going to say next, just make sure that your skin and hair are within the suitable category for laser treatment first.
5. Electric trimmers
If you’re not too concerned about being totally hairless, electric trimmers are a fool-proof way to tame your stomach hair without completely removing it.
The best part is this:
You also spare your skin from irritation as the blades won’t come into direct contact with it, so no rashes, bumps, or ingrown hairs afterward.
6. Bleaching
You can always bleach it if you’re not looking to eradicate your stomach hair. This will make the hair less visible and easier to manage. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the bleach carefully to avoid skin irritation. Before you bleach, clean the area with soap and warm water. Then, apply the bleach evenly to the hair using a cotton ball or Q-tip. Leave it on for the indicated amount before rinsing it off with water.
7. Sugaring
Sugaring is a type of hair removal that’s similar to waxing. It involves applying a sugary paste to the skin, which then hardens and is removed along with the hair. This method can be painful, but it’s generally very effective.
To sugar, your belly hair, start by mixing equal parts sugar, lemon water juice, and water. Then, heat the mixture until it forms a syrup-like consistency. Once it’s cool enough to touch, apply it to the area you want to remove hair from in the direction of hair growth. Cover the area with a cloth or waxing strip, and then pull it off in the opposite direction of hair growth.
8. Electrolysis
Electrolysis is an option if you’re looking for a more permanent solution to remove stomach hair. This method uses electrical current to damage the hair follicle and prevent regrowth. It can be painful and time-consuming, but it’s generally effective. To do this, follow these steps:
- Grow stomach hair out long enough to be able to grip with tweezers. This is generally about ¼ inch. If hair is much longer, trim it down using scissors.
- Disinfect the area you’ll be working on and your tweezers with rubbing alcohol.
- Insert the needle into each individual hair follicle. You may need to do this at a slight angle to ensure the needle hits the right spot.
- Apply the electrical current for a split second. You may need to experiment to find the right amount of time – too little won’t work, but too much can cause summer skin damage.
- Remove the needle and move on to the next hair follicle.
You’ll likely need to undergo multiple sessions to eradicate all belly button hair. And, there’s always a chance that some hair will eventually grow back. But electrolysis is an option worth considering if you’re looking for a more permanent solution.
Best Way to Remove Stomach Hair: the Don’ts
1. Shaving
While there are many ways to remove stomach hair, you should also avoid some methods. For example, a closer shave is generally not a good idea. This is because the hair will grow back, which can irritate the skin due to allergic reactions. The results tend to be fleeting and not worth the time and effort you put in. Moreover, there is the risk of getting razor bumps or a razor burn.
2. Tweezing
Unless you’ve only got a couple of hairs on your belly (in which case, tweeze away), you’d probably read Ulysses faster than the time it would take you to pluck all the hairs from your stomach area.
3. Depilatory Creams
Depilatory creams may seem like an easy solution, but they often don’t work as well as we’d like them to. Plus, they can be harsh on the skin. So, while they may be tempting, they’re generally not worth it.
When Do You Need to See a doctor?
In most cases, hair on the stomach is nothing to worry about and can be removed using one of the above-mentioned methods. However, there are a few instances where you should see a doctor. For example, if you notice sudden or unusual hair growth, it could signify a hormonal imbalance. This is especially true if you have dark, coarse hair that makes you uncomfortable. In addition, if you notice any other changes like rushes or pimples, please see your doctor as soon as possible.
Another instance where you should see a doctor is if hair removal is difficult. For example, if you’re struggling to shave or wax the hair off, it could signify an underlying condition known as hirsutism. This condition causes excess hair growth, specifically in women, and can be caused by things like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or certain medications. If you think you may have hirsutism, please see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
The Bottom Line
So… how to get rid of stomach hair without shaving? Which way is the best? Well… there’s really no “best” overall answer – but based on this post, you should be able to find the right solution for your own individual needs.
Got a question? An intimate issue? A crazy-ass stomach waxing story? Be sure to share with me in the comments below!
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About the author Dave Levitt
Dave is a Brooklyn-based editor with a specific interest in the recent trend of men adopting beauty and self-care routines. It’s not all about the ultra-masculine-packaged, strongly-scented all-purpose shower gels anymore! Modern men are seeking the quality resources to turn to when it comes to skincare, haircare and fashion. Dave’s hard and passionate work is dedicated to building up more resources like that on the web.
