This month at Bellaboo, we are hoping to bridge together the traditional divide between waxing and shaving and the like, as we talk about all things 'Hair Removal.'

We were lucky enough to chat to Hannah Terrett; store manager at Benefit beauty boutique in Sydney, to get the low-down on the best products, methods and approaches to ridding yourself of unwanted body hair.

Please, put our minds to rest, which is better for you, waxing or shaving and why?
Waxing! Waxing removes hair from the root, meaning it takes longer to grow back. Plus it leaves a much smoother finish.

The biggest myths?
The most common myth is that facial hair grows back thicker once you start waxing. The answer is no. However, this depends on the individual. Facial hair can be stimulated by hormones, which can contribute to thicker growth. Waxing removes hair from the root thereby not creating any stimulation within the hormonal system.

What are your opinions on Laser hair removal?
Laser is a great option for someone who has dark hair with a fast growth cycle.

When it comes to waxing your legs, what are the most important things to keep in mind?
Exfoliate and moisturise the skin regularly. Wax no sooner than 3 to 4 weeks apart and no shaving in between waxing.

Is there such thing as pain-free waxing? What things can you do to reduce the pain?
Think of it as pulling off a band aid, nice and quick! A great tip is taking a paracetamol tablet ½ hour before your waxing treatment.

Underarms are a seemingly delicate area, what precautions should you take to avoid rashes, cuts etc when waxing and/or shaving?
Always keep the area clean and moisturised (the drier the skin the more irritated it can get). If waxing, let the hair grow to its full waxing length (3 to 4 weeks growth is ideal) to get maximum results. If shaving, do not apply deodorant directly after and always shave using a nourishing balm or shaving cream to minimise any irritation.

The eyebrow is the focal point for definition, what would you say to girls who over- pluck/wax their brows?
Step 1. Put down the tweezers! The best thing you can do is go to a brow specialist who can shape and create the perfect arches to suit your features. At Benefit we offer a brow program, whereby our specialist gives great brow advice, helping to shape and maintain.

Similarly, those who do not groom regularly enough?
Once per month keeps the ideal shape and frames the face. Perfect brows give that effortless, no makeup look.

How can one realise their perfect eyebrow shape?
Brows should always start at the inner corner of the eye, the arch ideally should begin at the outer edge of the iris, the ends of the brows should end at the outer corner of the eye. Brows should be no thinner than a paddle pop stick.

What is the biggest bikini drama you have ever experienced from a client?
Fixing a D.I.Y job! When a customer has tried to do their bikini wax at home and got herself into a sticky situation with wax everywhere! Gets me every time!

What advice do you give to girls about bikini line hair removal?
Maintain on a regular basis, the longer the hair the more painful the service. Ingrown hairs are very common on the bikini line, so exfoliate regularly to minimise this.

There you have it girls - the ins, outs and everything in between on being a smooth operator - face and body! And, our pick of top products to help you get there. If you are interested in any services that the Benefit Boutique beauty salon offer, be sure to head to their website www.benefitcosmetics.com for your local store listings and for more info.

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