Summertime prep questions that we should start considering: to shave or subject oneself to the medieval torture device known as the Brazilian wax? One promises instant results (and instant regret when you miss a spot), while the other tests your pain tolerance in ways you never imagined. If you’re trying to decide how to care for those private parts before swimsuit season, let’s break it down in a way that’s both informative and—because we need to laugh a little more—entertaining. Let’s break it down: shaving vs. brazilian wax.

SHAVING vs. WAXING: WHICH HAIR REMOVAL METHOD IS BEST?

Shaving: The Quick Fix (For Those Who Love a Daily Struggle)

Pros of Shaving:
✔ Fast and easy (in theory).
✔ Affordable (unless you’re buying those fancy razors with moisture strips that cost as much as rent).
✔ DIY-friendly. No awkward spa visits required.

Cons of Shaving:
✘ Razor burn—because who doesn’t love a good sting in their most delicate areas?
✘ Stubble shows up faster than an Amazon Prime delivery.
✘ Ingrown hairs—tiny little betrayals from your own body.

The Reality:
Shaving is like renting an apartment—you have to maintain it constantly, and just when you think everything is smooth, BOOM, unexpected rough patches. Also, let’s not forget the fear of nicking yourself mid-shave. There’s no pain quite like the betrayal of a tiny razor slip.

Brazilian Wax: The Bold Choice (For Those Who Can Handle the Drama)

Pros of Waxing:
✔ Lasts longer (three to four weeks of smoothness—like a vacation from body hair).
✔ No daily maintenance, so you can live your best life.
✔ Fewer ingrown hairs over time.

Cons of Waxing:
✘ Costs more (because smooth skin is apparently a luxury).
✘ Hurts like a bad breakup.
✘ Requires a stranger to get way too familiar with your personal space.

The Reality:
A Brazilian wax is the equivalent of ripping off a Band-Aid, except the Band-Aid is attached to your soul. The first time is the worst (and yes, you may question every life decision that led you here), but the results are long-lasting. Plus, if you find a great waxer, they’ll distract you with conversation while pretending your discomfort isn’t happening. Bless them.

MY PERSONAL OPINION: SHAVING vs. WAXING

Holy moly, I started waxing over a year ago, and let me tell you—I have zero desire to go back to shaving. Now, don’t get me wrong, there’s a time and place for both. For instance, I simply do not have the patience (or the emotional stamina) to wax my legs. I do wax my armpits. And, here’s the kicker—I do my own waxing.

Can you wax your own body, too?

You absolutely can.
Necessity brings out the best—and the worst—in us.

Some unexpected life circumstances led me to even consider a Brazilian wax in the first place. The first 49 years of my life? Pretty conservative. Call it a mid-life crisis if you want, but I decided to give the Brazilian a go. The catch? My financial situation made professional waxing a no-go (not that I was particularly excited about a stranger getting up close and personal with my nether regions anyway). So, I made the investment—bought a wax warmer, bags of wax, and dove in headfirst.

That first experience? Worse than any dental appointment I’ve ever had. Worse than childbirth. My eyes watered the entire way through. I regretted everything. I seriously considered starting a new trend—half-waxed, half-fuzzy. But then, in a moment of pure determination (or maybe insanity), I powered through. Grit and bear it, right?

THOSE HARD TO REACH PLACES

I will tell you, the first two waxes are hard, position-wise and logistically. If you decide to give it a whirl, press through the first couple of times and don’t give up. You will find your groove, eventually; and, the whole process will just come a lot easier with every wax. Too, the pain turns to mild discomfort after that first wax, I promise.

And, for those hard to reach places (because there are a few places that are just a bit out of reach), I call in my boyfriend to do the heavy-lifting (he doesn’t seem to mind. wink. wink.). So, if you have a trusted friend or partner that can lend you a helping hand, it’s cheaper than an $80 salon wax!

As for inflicting that kind of pain on yourself, I didn’t find it painful at all after the first couple of waxes. So, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

What if I take a break between waxing?

BUT, ooooooh mannnnnn…if you ever take a break from waxing and shave again. The torture starts all over, I assure you. I don’t know the science behind this, but I know what I saw and felt. While I was waxing, my pubic hair grew in soft, light and laid in a different way (flat-ish, kind of). I shaved one time and those suckers grew back in dark, coarse and “stubbly” standing at itchy attention. I itched with every stride as I walked. It was miserable! I could not wait for Amazon to get that new bag of wax to the house so that I could put myself out of my misery. And, the pain of ripping those suckers out? It was worth it to have my downstairs soft and maintenance free again.

Shaving vs. Waxing: FAQs & Common Myths

“Does waxing really get easier over time?”
Yes, but that first time? Whew. Be brave, soldier. Seriously. Plan on that first wax making you want to cuss at your grandmother; but, it is worth it!

“Will I ever recover from razor burn?”
Maybe. Hydration, exfoliation, and silent prayers help.

“Is there a ‘right’ way to do either?”
Absolutely.

• For shaving: Use a sharp razor, go with the grain, and use an alcohol-free moisturizer.
• For waxing: Exfoliate beforehand, take a pain reliever if needed, and don’t chicken out once you’ve started. I used baby powder to lessen the pull on my skin when I wax, to ease some of the initial pain, as well.

Final Verdict: Should You Shave or Wax?

At the end of the day, whether you choose the quick slice-and-dice method or the ‘scream once, stay smooth for weeks’ approach, the choice is yours. If you want convenience, stick with shaving. If you want longevity and can handle the temporary suffering, go for the wax. Or, just go full blown eau natureal. It doesn’t matter to me. Just do you and rock that summer swim suit with confidence.

Whatever you decide, just remember: you’re a queen (or King)—furry or bare!