Is Nair Better Than Shaving?

Last Updated on September 9, 2023 by Chase Reiner

Nair, a hair removal cream, can offer a longer-lasting solution than shaving, typically lasting up to a week. However, results may vary, and some may prefer shaving for its convenience and precision.

Is Nair Better Than Shaving?

Hair removal is a topic surrounded by many debates, especially when comparing different methods like Nair and shaving. Here’s a listicle suggesting how one might be more efficient or beneficial than the other:

1. Application

Nair: One applies Nair directly to the skin, where it dissolves the proteins in the hair. This process can take between 5 to 10 minutes.

Shaving: Shaving involves using a razor to cut the hair off at the skin’s surface. This process is usually quicker than using Nair.

2. Pain Level

Nair: Generally, the usage of Nair is painless unless one has sensitive skin, which might react to the chemicals.

Shaving: Shaving can lead to cuts and nicks if not done cautiously, causing minor pain.

3. Skin Smoothness

Nair: It leaves the skin smoother for longer, as it removes hair below the skin surface.

Shaving: Shaving gives an instantaneous smooth skin but regrowth can be prickly and ‘stubbly’ due to the sharp edges left by the razor.

4. Risks

Nair: It can cause serious skin irritations, burns, or allergic reactions in some individuals because it contains strong chemicals.

Shaving: Shaving can lead to razor burns, cuts, nicks, and ingrown hairs – hair that grows back into the skin.

5. Cost-Efficiency

Nair: While Nair might be more expensive upfront than a disposable razor, one bottle can last for multiple uses, so it might be more cost-efficient in the long run.

Shaving: Even though razors are cheaper initially, one needs to regularly replace disposable razors or razor heads which could raise cumulative cost.

Each hair removal method has positives and negatives, and what effects they can have can vary greatly from person to person. Ultimately, the best method comes down to personal preference, skin sensitivity, pain tolerance, and budget.

	Nair	Shaving
Application	Direct to skin	Razor cut
Pain Level	Low, unless sensitive skin	Moderate, potential for cuts
Skin Smoothness	Longer lasting	Immediate but stubbly regrowth
Risks	Possible skin irritations and burns	Razor burns, cuts, nicks, and ingrown hairs
Cost-Efficiency	More expensive initially, but one bottle lasts multiple uses	The initial cost is low but requires regular replacements

A conversation with the dermatologist can also be useful in understanding what method will best suit one’s individual needs in terms of skin type, hair thickness, and any other potential decider.

Nair: The Deets

In technical terms, Nair is a depilatory.

MenNStuff 101: A depilatory is a gel, lotion, or cream that removes hair from any body area.

How you use Nair and how it works

First, you spread some of it on your hairy skin. Then, once it touches your body, Nair starts dissolving the hair shaft. That is contrary to the common belief that it penetrates below the skin and breaks down your hair root.

1. Nair deals with keratin, which is the protein that makes up the hair. So, it breaks the keratin chemical bonds, thereby weakening the strands.

2. After 3 minutes of application, your skin may feel a little heated up. However, don’t wipe the cream away if the recommended time hasn’t passed. Instead, take the tiny pinch and only brush off the hair when your timer rings.

What Nair Is Made Of

Nair contains a base and an acidic salt. So, it could have sodium hydroxide plus calcium or potassium salt from thioglycolic acid.

Nothing important, just chemical.

On top of that, it may also contain:

1. Water

2. Fragrance (or perfume)

Where Nair Works

Most people use it for legs, but it can also clear facial hair, pubic hair, and stubble. But, ensure you check the specific purpose of the product you buy. If it is a leg-only product, may God help you if you use it on your head.

MenNStuff 101: Nair is not for your nose hair, and neither should it come near your eyebrows.

Does Nair Last Longer Than Shaving?

No.

They last the same time because they do the same thing: removing hair shafts and not the roots. So, creaming is just like shaving, except that no blade is involved.

MenNStuff 101: If you have been shaving every fortnight, you will likely be using Nair every fortnight too.

Is It Okay To Use Nair On Private Parts?

Yes.

Nair is okay for your pubes, but you should apply it with these ideas in mind:

1. If you have any abrasions or cuts, avoid using Nair.

2. Before you apply the hair removal cream, trim your hair down. If you spread Nair on long, thick hair, it will be difficult to remove it. Then, you will end up burning your skin and causing it to become red.

3. Before going all-in with Nair, test a small patch on the pubic area. That way, you will have an idea of how everything will eventually look.

4. To avoid developing any infections, keep the cream away from your rectal area or your vaginal canal. To do that effectively, rub some Vaseline in those sensitive areas, which will create a barrier for the Nair cream.

5. After the hair removal time passes, use a soft washcloth to wipe off the Nair cream. Using a spatula may render the experience painful for you.

6. If you get severe burns or itching, wash the area with cold, running water. If it persists, talk to a dermatologist for a pain-relieving ointment. 

Does Hair Grow Back Thicker After Nair?

No.

Nair products do not affect how your hair will turn out. Even though it uses chemical action to remove hair, it doesn’t affect growth. Your hair will still come up the same way, and it won’t be longer or shorter than usual.

Why Does Nair Smell So Bad?

The chemical components.

Some people may be thrown off by how strong Nair smells. That’s because it contains harsh chemicals that combine to dissolve hair.

But it all depends on the Nair product you buy. Some are scented, which helps mask the chemical smell. 

MenNStuff 101: When you go shopping, check if the Nair product you’re buying is perfumed.

Do You Use Nair Before Or After Shower?

After

That way, you will not risk rubbing the cream into other parts of your body. But, if you want to do it before, follow these tips:

1. After you have applied it for the recommended time, wait for at least a minute.

2. Then, wipe it off and hop into the shower.

3. Before you start your bath, wash your hands. That way, you won’t have to worry about the cream getting into your eyes.

How Often Should You Nair?

Every time your hair regrows

From Nair’s FAQ section, it should not be less than 72 hours between applications. So, every 1 or 2 weeks of a suitable frequency.

Will Nair Permanently Remove Hair?

No. Nair is not a long-term hair reduction method.

That also goes for other depilatory creams.

Hair removal creams work by dissolving your hair shaft. They do not go under the skin, meaning that they don’t affect growth. If you want permanent hair removal, you can try laser hair removal.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Hair Removal Cream?

After all the Nair talk, it is time to highlight some cons of using depilatory creams:

1. They make users feel uncomfortable, and they irritate the skin.

2. Because of their chemical components, they are susceptible to producing odors. That may be a turnoff for people who are sensitive to smell.

3. You risk developing ingrown hair.

4. It may burn your skin, mainly if you use it in particular areas like the pubes. 

Is Hair Removal Cream Bad For Private Parts?

Yes, if you apply the product close to the part.

If you want to use hair removal cream below your waist, you must be extra careful. The slightest contact with your intimate areas may backfire on your face, and you don’t want that to happen.

Is Nair Bad For You Long Term?

No.

As an alternative to shaving, Nair ensures that your skin does not develop bumps. That means your body will feel smoother, and it won’t have any razor cuts.

However, it may react aggressively with sensitive skin, which is why many beauticians vouch for shaving. If you leave Nair on such skin for too long, you may experience:

1. Vomiting

2. Fainting

3. Dizziness

4. And general body weakness.

Conclusion

To that point, you know everything about Nair. It is one of the best-selling hair removal cream brands, together with Veet and Nads. As a shaving alternative, it helps you get a smoother feel on your skin without the buzzing and trimming. So, if you can, shop for the cream and try it out.

References:

https://www.makeupmuddle.com/is-nair-better-than-shaving/
https://www.watsons.co.id/id/blog/en/skin-care/hair-removal-cream-is-it-better-than-shaving