Can underarm hair be removed?

Oct 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Generally speaking, underarm hair can be removed. However, it is not recommended for individuals with sensitive skin, those suffering from skin conditions, those who sweat excessively, or those undergoing special treatments. For people with sensitive skin, removing underarm hair may easily trigger allergic reactions and worsen skin discomfort. For individuals with skin diseases, hair removal may cause skin damage, potentially exacerbating existing infections.

In general, underarm hair can be removed. However, individuals with sensitive skin, skin conditions, excessive sweating, or those undergoing special medical treatments are advised against removing underarm hair. For people with sensitive skin, hair removal may easily trigger allergic reactions and worsen skin discomfort. Those with existing skin diseases may experience skin damage from hair removal, potentially exacerbating infections. Individuals who sweat heavily may be more prone to bacterial and fungal growth when underarm hair is removed, as the exposed skin comes into direct contact with air and moisture from perspiration. For those undergoing specific treatments—such as cancer patients receiving radiation therapy—radiation can make the skin fragile and sensitive. Hair removal in such cases may cause skin injuries that are harder to heal due to the effects of radiation.

Under normal circumstances, underarm hair removal only removes hair from the skin's surface and does not cause substantial harm to overall health. It can enhance one’s appearance by making the underarms look neater and feel fresher. However, hair removal may irritate the delicate underarm skin. If performed improperly—for example, using a dull tool or applying excessive pressure—skin damage such as cuts, redness, or swelling may occur. Additionally, if proper hygiene is not maintained after hair removal, bacteria may enter through minor wounds and lead to infections such as folliculitis.

If you choose to remove underarm hair, several methods are available, including depilatory creams, waxing, shaving, phototherapy (light-based hair removal), and cryo-laser hair removal (ice-point hair removal). It is recommended to consult a professional at a reputable medical facility and select the most suitable method under medical guidance.

Hair Removal Method Analysis:

Method	Depilatory Cream	Waxing	Razor Shaving	Phototherapy (Light-Based)	Cryo-Laser (Ice-Point)
Example Image
Principle	Uses chemical agents to dissolve the hair structure for removal	Uses the adhesive property of wax to pull hair out from the follicle	Physically shaves off hair at the skin surface	Based on photothermal theory: melanin in hair follicles absorbs light energy and converts it to heat, destroying follicles to inhibit hair growth	Uses semiconductor laser combined with cooling technology to deactivate hair follicles for long-term hair reduction
Advantages	1. Gentle on skin 2. Low cost	1. Easy to use 2. Low cost	1. Simple operation 2. Inexpensive	1. Painless 2. Improves skin texture	1. Safe and effective 2. Reduces pain and skin damage caused by heat
Potential Risks	1. Inflammation 2. Enlarged pores	1. Redness and swelling 2. Allergic reactions	1. Irritation 2. Pain	1. Infection 2. Skin irritation	1. Swelling 2. Stinging sensation
Duration of Effect	2–5 days	7–15 days	15–30 days	3–5 years	3–5 years
Reference Price	20–100 CNY per session	200–1500 CNY per session	20–300 CNY per session	2000–3500 CNY per session	2000–3000 CNY per session

After hair removal, proper care of the underarm skin is essential. Sun protection should be applied, and strenuous activities such as running, swimming, or jumping rope should be avoided to prevent inflammation. Avoid using irritating skincare products and consuming spicy or stimulating foods such as chili peppers, garlic, and Sichuan pepper.

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How to completely eliminate body odor (bromhidrosis)

Under normal circumstances, axillary bromhidrosis may be caused by genetic factors, excessive sweat secretion, local bacterial infection, hyperhidrosis, hyperthyroidism, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and then proceed with treatment under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medication, physical therapy, or surgical intervention. Daily care should include regular trimming of underarm hair to reduce bacterial adhesion.

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Will shaving underarm hair cause body odor?

Under normal circumstances, shaving underarm hair does not directly cause body odor. When shaving underarm hair, use clean and sharp tools to avoid skin injuries that may lead to infection. After shaving, you can apply a mild moisturizing product to protect the skin. If noticeable odor develops in the underarm area after shaving, it is important to maintain good local hygiene and change clothes frequently. If the odor persists, prompt medical consultation is recommended for further evaluation.

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Does shaving underarm hair cause body odor?

Shaving underarm hair generally does not cause body odor. Before shaving, ensure the tools and underarm skin are clean, and avoid using dull instruments that may damage the skin. After shaving, if the underarm skin feels dry and tight, a non-irritating moisturizer may be applied. If noticeable and persistent odor occurs after shaving, maintain good underarm hygiene and choose breathable clothing. If the odor does not improve, medical consultation is recommended.

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Can underarm hair removal cause body odor?

Underarm hair removal only affects the hair and hair follicles, and does not damage or alter the structure or secretory function of the apocrine sweat glands in the underarm area. The development of body odor (bromhidrosis) is related to the bacterial breakdown of the unique sweat secreted by the apocrine sweat glands. As long as the apocrine sweat glands are functioning normally, the process of sweat secretion and bacterial decomposition will not be affected by hair removal alone, and therefore will not cause body odor.