There are several ways to do this. For example, you can have your assistant cut it with a pair of scissors and a comb or use a heavy-duty set of electric clippers.
The main benefit of this is that it reduces the chance of ingrown hairs. [1] X Research source However, it’s not strictly necessary, so you can skip this step if you’re in a hurry.
You don’t need to shave all the way down to the skin — just cut down on most of the “bulk. " When you shave with a razor in a few steps, your work will go quicker and there will be less hair to clog the razor.
Keep in mind that this will use a lot more lubricant than your typical face-shaving session. Make sure you have plenty before you start or you may need to make a trip to the store mid-shave.
To get a smooth shave without discomfort, shave your entire back once with the grain, then shave again against the grain. [2] X Research source Shaving against the grain first can cause minor pain and irritation.
To keep the skin smooth and supple, you may want to apply unscented lotion all over the back. Avoid scented lotions — the chemicals in these can irritate post-shave skin (especially if your assistant accidentally gave you tiny cuts or nicks).
Wash your hands after your have applied the cream. The cream can irritate your skin if it’s allowed to dry (not to mention that it will remove any hair on the backs of your hands it is allowed to work on).
After waiting, use a damp cloth or towel to wipe a small area of your back. If the hair does not come off easily, wait another couple of minutes.
There will probably be many different varieties of available. All other things being equal, hot waxing kits work tend to work best for the back because they can cover a larger area. [8] X Research source Note: Waxing will leave your back red and sensitive, so start this method at least 24 hours before you want to show it off.
After showering, be sure to dry your back thoroughly.
To reduce pain, do not pull straight up or up at an angle. Keep the strip close to the body as you pull in a direction parallel to the skin and pull as quickly as possible.
If the pain is ever unbearable, stop — burning or injuring yourself isn’t worth worrying about uneven back hair.
Exfoliate with water and a gentle abrasive or brush to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. Clean and dry your back if you are using an electric razor. Wet your back and apply shaving cream/gel if you are using a standard razor.
After you’re done, take a quick shower to wash off stray hair. Pat dry with a towel and, if desired, apply a gentle unscented lotion to keep the skin soft and smooth.
You don’t need to wash with soap yet — this will come later. Note: As with waxing, it’s best to do this method the day before you need to show off your back so any redness and irritation will have a chance to subside.
Optionally, you can apply some talc or baby powder after drying off with a towel. This will further dry the hair in addition to getting it to stand up, making epilation easier. [12] X Research source ptionally, you can apply some talc or baby powder after drying off with a towel. This will further dry the hair in addition to getting it to stand up, making epilation easier.
If the pain is too intense, dragging the epilator across the skin more quickly can reduce the amount of time you have to endure the pain. However, you may need to go back over the same patch multiple times if you miss hairs.
Back waxing fees will vary by location. $40-$70 for just the back is typical — costs will be higher if extra areas are waxed. [13] X Research source
This procedure tends to cost about $400-$500 per session. One advantage of laser treatments is that they allow the option of “thinning out” patches of hair, rather than removing all of it. [15] X Research source
This procedure costs about $40 per treatment, but a large area like your back may require many treatments. [16] X Research source
