How to Remove Perianal Hair

The perianal area is located around the anus and may include the perineum, the strip of skin between the anus and genitals. Hair growth in this area is natural but may be removed for cosmetic reasons. Shaving the perianal is not recommended due to the risk of cuts and infection. Waxing is the easiest and safest method of removing hair around the anus at home, and the results of waxing typically last three to six weeks, according to the Nemours Foundation 2.

Wash your perianal area thoroughly with warm water and a gentle soap. A large number of bacteria tend to reside in the area, which makes the chance of infection from broken or irritated skin high.

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Lie down on your back with a mirror positioned near your feet, or squat over a mirror to improve your ability to see the area. You will need to see the entire region to apply the wax properly.

Trim your perianal hair to about 1/4 inch with scissors if it is longer than 1/2 inch. This will make hair removal easier and may decrease your discomfort during waxing. According to the Nemours Foundation, waxing is most effective on hair that is at least 1/4 inch as shorter hairs may not adhere to the wax for removal 2.

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Use your left hand to pull the skin on one side of your anus taut, and then spread no-heat wax on the area using your right hand and the stick or applicator included with the product.

Press the cloth strip against the wax and rub your hand back and forth across the strip until it securely adheres to your hair and skin. If no cloth strips were included with your waxing kit, you can purchase them at most pharmacies and beauty supply stores.

Grab one end of the cloth strip and quickly pull it toward the opposite end of the strip. Keep the strip as close to your body as possible at all times. Pulling the strip away from your body, such as at a 90-degree angle, will increase pain and inflammation.

Repeat this process on the other side of your anus and on any remaining hair. Do not wax over the same area twice in the same day.

Remove any remaining wax by soaking a cotton ball in baby oil and wiping it across your skin. The wax should come away easily.

Apply a waxing gel or moisturizing ointment to your skin to help prevent dryness and ingrown hairs. Aloe vera gel is also useful for soothing the skin and preventing razor burn, explains the Palo Alto Medical Foundation 3.

Tips

Electrolysis and laser hair removal offer more permanent methods of removing perianal hair. However, these procedures may be expensive and painful.