With so many products and techniques on the market these days, it’s easier than before to achieve your hair goals. Whether you’re interested in adding or removing hair or simply taking better care of what you naturally have, we’ve got the insight and pro tips you need.

Shaving
Still the most utilized option for hair removal, shaving is basically painless because it simply removes hair at skin level. It is a quick and easy way to get smooth skin, but also requires the most upkeep since results don’t usually last nearly as long as other options—on average, only one to three days.

Pro tip: Having a fresh, sharp blade makes all the difference in getting the closest shave possible. It’s also your best defense against razor burn, ingrown hair or even skin infections! If your shaving routine results in ingrown hairs, make sure you gently exfoliate on non-shave days and moisturize EVERY day.

Waxing and sugaring
Waxing and sugaring provide results that usually last about a month by pulling hair from the follicle. Though arguably the most painful methods, they are popular for their long-lasting results, as well as avoiding common shaving issues such as razor burn and ingrown hairs. Over time, you’ll also notice that hair grows back more sparsely.

Pro tip: For best results, allow your hair to grow for about six weeks before your appointment. Want the smoothest finish possible? Once skin has recovered from the process, give it a quick and light shave to remove any last traces of stubble.

Laser hair removal
Laser hair removal is a procedure using pulses of laser light that damage the hair follicle enough to prevent hair from growing back. It takes multiple sessions but can permanently stop growth up to about 90%. Most clients note the pain level as being on par with a light rubber band snap

Pro tip: Your skin will be sensitive and vulnerable for at least 24 hours after your session, so you’ll need to avoid sun exposure. Consider your summer lifestyle before scheduling and be sure to amp up your sunscreen routine!

Extensions and weaves
If you’re looking to add length and/or volume to your hairstyle, extensions and weaves require little more maintenance than a standard haircut. There are more than a handful of products and application types—taped, sewn and braided, just to name a few. Reach out to a professional, who will compare your current hair and scalp against your style goals to recommend best options.

Pro tip: Your new hair may not be the same texture as your natural hair. For instance, my tape-in extensions are wavier than my own hair. Because of this, you may need to update your product lineup and everyday routine to make the most of your fresh locks.

Wigs
Wigs cover your hair and scalp and are a great option for anyone with fragile, damaged hair or hair loss. Wigs require a slightly higher level of ongoing home maintenance, as they need to be taken off for showers, sleep, etc. You can buy fun and inexpensive wigs for any occasion online; however, you’ll want to invest a little more into any piece you plan to wear daily.

Pro Tip: Always wear a wig cap liner to create a barrier between your natural hair or scalp to provide protection for both your head and wig, while keeping it more secure. Another tool potentially new to your hair styling arsenal will be a wide tooth comb to detangle your wig without adding frizz.

Microblading and powdered brows
Brows are back! If you’re feeling sparse from having over plucked in the 90s, permanent cosmetics are a great option for reclaiming your brows. Microblading mimics realistic hair-like strokes, while powdered brows give the effect of a soft makeup-filled look. You can even get a combination of the two techniques for a brow style that is 100% complimentary to your face shape, skin type and desired look.

Pro tip: Both options require some downtime from makeup and a follow-up session about six weeks after the initial procedure. Be sure to check your schedule so that you don’t overlap your recovery time with an important event you may want to wear makeup for.


Au naturel
If all of this simply sounds like too much time and energy, join the growing number of women choosing to go au naturel! Many women of color have embraced their natural hair as a way of expressing their self-love and empowerment. Beauty trends and standards continue to become more inclusive, allowing us to explore what makes us feel our very best. For many, that has meant embracing our natural body hair (or lack thereof) to avoid tedious routines and problematic results. Try skipping the razor or forgo your normal brow penciling routine a couple of times to see how it feels. Though sometimes uncomfortable at first, it can be very freeing to know that we can be confident in our skin exactly as it is.

Pro tip: If you’re choosing to allow hair growth in areas you’d normally remove from, you may need to change up your moisturizing products and routine. A body oil designed for both bare skin and hair can help keep pores clean and hair soft in even your most sensitive areas.