Should I Be Concerned About Belly Hair?

Woman holding stomach
Veronique Beranger / Getty Images

Body hair shaming is a thing, but people everywhere are openly embracing body hair, including underarm and belly hair. Whether you elect to keep your body hair or remove it, there is no right or wrong solution. To each their own, right? If you're on team hair removal, you have options.

Since belly hair is relatively easy to remove at home, you can stick to a DIY method. But if you'd prefer to say goodbye for good, you have a few professional options as well. Depending on your skin tone, sensitivity, and hair thickness, however, you may have to be careful of some alternatives to prevent scarring and allergic reactions. 

If you have any questions, be sure to talk with a dermatologist before testing any new hair removal treatment on your skin. Now, let's talk options. 

01 of 06

Shaving

Using a razor—multi-bladed, straight, or electric—is one of the oldest forms of hair removal. Using one is quick, easy, painless (as long as you don't nick yourself), and can be done in or outside of the shower. Shaving is accessible, but you will have to shave often to keep skin smooth. If you have coarse hair, you may feel some itchiness as the hair starts to grow back. Keep a body scrub in the shower and gently exfoliate a few times a week to keep ingrown hairs at bay.

02 of 06

Depilatories (Hair Removal Creams)

Many depilatory products come in cream form, but they also come in gels, lotions, and sprays. They're pretty simple to use and relatively inexpensive. Some can work in a matter of minutes, breaking down the hair so that it can be easily wiped away. Like shaving, though, they remove hair at-or-slightly-below the level of the skin. Therefore, they're a temporary method that will only last a couple of days at best.

​They're also made very strong to break down the hair follicle, so be careful, because improper use often results in chemical burns—even with no allergy to the ingredients. Whether you have sensitive skin or not, start with a formula made for sensitive skin types, and spot test before applying it.

03 of 06

Waxing

Waxing is found on most salon and spa menus. The wax (typically resin-based) is spread over hair, and then quickly ripped off in order to remove hair from the root. Waxing removes the entire hair, providing longer results than shaving or depilatory creams. However, there is a downside: It can be painful, and for some, it can even cause allergic reactions.

While we can't make the process less painful, there are a couple of things you can try to minimize waxing discomfort. Don't wax five days before or during your period, since the body may be more sensitive during that time. You might also want to try a topical numbing cream prior to waxing.

04 of 06

Sugaring

Sugaring comes in two forms: paste and gel. The paste removes hair in the direction of growth, and gel removes in the opposite direction of hair's growth. While it also removes the hair follicle from the root like waxing, it's less painful and gentler to the skin.

The traditional method, which is the sugaring paste, is one of the oldest methods of hair removal. Because it's so similar to waxing, it can give you the same side effects—although they're generally less severe. Sugaring was once a difficult service to find, but many salons now offer it as an alternative to waxing. Just be prepared to pay more since sugaring can be a more time-intensive process.

05 of 06

Electrolysis

If you want your stomach hair gone forever, the best way to go is generally electrolysis. It's the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal. Unlike some forms of laser hair removal, all hair colors can safely receive electrolysis. Be warned though, it takes multiple sessions and may be painful.

Byrdie Tip

Apply a topical anesthetic, like topical lidocaine cream, prior to treatment to help with pain and discomfort.

06 of 06

Laser Hair Removal

Laser and other light-based technologies like IPL (intense pulsed light) work to impair the hair follicle and are FDA-approved for permanent hair reduction. There was a time when lasers only worked on dark hair and light skin for results, but the technology has come a long way.

While laser and light-based technology can work for everyone, those with darker skin tones will want to work with a board-certified dermatologist with experience using lasers on deep skin tones. Laser hair removal can require up to six and eight sessions to see results, so be prepared to make an investment.

FAQ
  • What is the best way to prevent ingrown hairs while shaving belly hair?

    Make sure you are using a multi-blade razor, such as the Gillette Venus Deluxe Smooth Platinum Razor and replace the blade after five or six uses. An old and rusty blade can often cause ingrown hairs. Also, always use shaving gel or cream and shave gently in the direction of the hair growth. Lastly, pat on Fur Oil to prevent and treat any existing ingrown hairs.

  • What causes women to have belly hair?

    Thanks to genetics, some women just naturally have more hair on their body than others. If you suddenly start growing belly hair, it could be caused by hormone changes, including menopause. Belly hair during pregnancy is common and often goes away six months after giving birth. Other causes that can be discussed with your doctor include polycystic ovary syndrome, insulin resistance or disorders of the pituitary, adrenal or thyroid gland.

  • How much is laser hair removal on my stomach?

    The price will vary depending on the size of the area that needs to be lasered. For example, a small area around your belly button will cost less than your full abdomen. Depending on where you live, some cities have higher prices on these types of services as well. Also keep in mind you will need six to eight treatments. In general, you can expect to pay around $600-$1000 for laser hair removal on your stomach.

Article Sources
Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
  1. American Academy of Dermatology Assocation. 7 Ways to Remove Unwanted Hair. Updated September 13, 2021.

  2. Falcone D, Richters RJ, Uzunbajakava NE, Van Erp PE, Van De Kerkhof PC. Sensitive skin and the influence of female hormone fluctuations: results from a cross-sectional digital survey in the Dutch populationEur J Dermatol. 2017;27(1):42-48. doi:10.1684/ejd.2016.2913

  3. Cleveland Clinic. Electrolysis. Updated January 5, 2021.

  4. Gold MH, Biron JA, Thompson B. Clinical Evaluation of a Novel Intense Pulsed Light Source for Facial Skin Hair Removal for Home Use. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2015 Jul;8(7):30-5.

  5. Cedars-Sinai. Hirsutism in Women (Excess Body Hair Growth).

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