Waxing can seem to be a very straight forward treatment to book but for those of you who have never had it done before or perhaps only have the treatment performed in the summer, here are a few regularly asked questions and answers to help you plan your course of treatments.
Warm Wax Hair Removal
How long, or short, should my hair be for waxing?
The hair should be at least1/4-inch to 1/2-inchfor best results. If you have coarse hair it should be closer to 1/2-inch for the first few waxes. Once the hair becomes finer it can be waxed at a shorter length. If your hair is longer, I recommend shaving the area and booking your waxing appointment for two to three weeks later.
It may take up to three waxing treatments to achieve smooth skin due to the fact that hair grows in stages and all of your hair is never at the same stage. It is very important to avoid shaving between waxing appointments, as this will interrupt the process and stimulate the hair growth again. So if you’re going on holiday and want to be hair free while you’re away you need to plan your waxing treatments now, for the best results.
How often should I get my waxing treatment?
Every four to five weeks.Regular waxing is essential. The skin will be less sensitive if waxing is done regularly. Over time the hair follicle will have less and less of a grip on the hair to be pulled and the hairs will come out more easily.
Another reason to wax frequently is that you may even experience less hair growth over time.
Is there anything I should do before my waxing appointment?
Yes.
- Refrain from taking a shower or bath immediately before the treatment. Soaking the hair will soften it, allowing it to break more easily and making waxing less effective.
- Make sure the hair is the appropriate length for waxing.
- Make sure that the area(s) to be waxed are clean.
- There are certain medications and products that should not be taken or used if you plan to have a waxing treatment soon. Topical exfoliants used on the area to be waxed such as Retin-A, Renova, and hydroquinone, oral acne medications such as Accutane, blood-thinning medications, and topical/oral cortisone make the skin more sensitive and increase the likelihood of irritation or other complications. Please check with your doctor if you are unsure whether you should be waxed while on or using a medication.
Eyebrow Waxing
What should I expect after my first waxing treatment?
Hairless skin!Also, everyone’s skin reacts differently to waxing treatments, but you can expect to have temporary redness and minor irritation for a day or two. Slight itchiness may be experienced as the hair grows out. Proper post-wax care will alleviate these symptoms quickly.
If you’re a bride,attending a special occasion or going on holiday, I recommend receiving waxing services a month before your special day or departure to see how your skin reacts. If everything is fine, reschedule another wax a few days before.
Will I get ingrown hairs?
It’s possible.
Waxing removes the entire hair, root and all, from the follicle. Your skin naturally hardens and thickens over the area that was waxed so it is important to keep that area gently exfoliated. Use a gentle scrub in that area about 2 days after waxing and continue to exfoliate 1 to 2 times a week thereafter. Remember, I said gentle!
Also, use a mixture of tea tree and lavender oil. Both are antimicrobial and antibacterial and will prevent irritation.
Try to wear loose-fitting clothes for a few days after to give your skin a chance to breathe and reduce moisture.
The bikini, lip and underarms are where we tend to perspire the most. Perspiration and moisture cause bacteria to grow. Once that area has been waxed, the follicle is wide open to this bacteria creeping in.
Try to avoid heavy exercise that will increase perspiration and chaffing for about 24-48 hours after waxing.
How can I prevent ingrown hairs?
For the next 24-48 hoursavoidon the waxed areas:
- use of exfoliating products (Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) products, loofahs, scrubs, etc.)
- direct sun exposure and tanning beds
- creams with fragrance or ingredients that may irritate
- deodorant: it results in irritation and clogging of open follicles
- wearing tight clothing: results in irritation and inflammation
- excessive heat, such as that from hot tubs and saunas. Warm showers are okay.
- exercise, if it may cause chaffing or sweating
- touching the freshly waxed area: this encourages irritation
After 24-48 hours, regular exfoliation with a shower gel and loofah or exfoliating glove will help keep skin soft and prevent ingrown hairs.
Apply an SPF 30 or greater sunscreen to any exposed treatment areas. Since waxing exfoliates as well as removing hair, your skin will be more prone to sunburn in the days following your treatment.
How do I benefit from waxing?
Waxing reduces hair growth when performed at every four to five weeks. While shaving crops the hair at the skin’s surface, waxing pulls it out by the root, so it grows backsofter,finer, andthinner. Waxing is great for those who are tired of the hassle of shaving several times per week.The more you wax, the less hair grows back.
Can I shave between waxing appointments?
No.Please do not shave between waxing appointments! It disrupts the hair growth cycle resulting in more hair at your next appointment.
Will waxing make my hair grow back thicker/stronger/darker?
Absolutely not.
Waxing does not cause you to grow more hair follicles. In fact, if you become a regular waxer, you will notice that your hair will become quite sparse and not as coarse.
When hair is shaved, it is cut off at the thick part of the hair, which is why you can feel stubble the next day. A properly waxed hair is removed from the root, and when the hair starts to grow back it is a new hair, very fine at the tip, so no stubble.
The only things known to stimulate hair growth are hormones: natural or artificial.
What is a Hollywood or Brazilian wax?
A Brazilian wax is the removal of most hair growth, leaving only a central strip untouched. A Hollywood waxing treatment removes ALL hair growth in the Bikini area.
Waxing Treatments
What should I do to prepare for a Brazilian or Hollywood waxing appointment?
If it’s your first treatment it’s a good idea to trim the hair to about 1/2 inch in length. This will make it easier to wax and be a little less uncomfortable for you.
As an expert in skincare and hair removal treatments, I can confidently share my in-depth knowledge on the topic of waxing. With years of experience and a keen understanding of the various techniques and best practices, I can address the concerns and questions raised in the provided article.
Waxing Basics:
Waxing is a widely used hair removal method that offers smooth and long-lasting results. The article rightly emphasizes the importance of hair length for effective waxing. The recommended length of 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch ensures optimal results, especially for those with coarse hair. It's crucial to understand that hair grows in stages, and consistent waxing helps achieve smoother skin over time.
Frequency of Waxing:
The article recommends waxing every four to five weeks. This frequency is not only for maintaining smooth skin but also for reducing sensitivity over time. Regular waxing weakens the hair follicle's grip, resulting in less painful and more effective hair removal.
Preparation for Waxing:
Proper preparation before a waxing session is vital. The article highlights the importance of avoiding showers or baths immediately before waxing, as soaking the hair softens it, making waxing less effective. Additionally, cleanliness of the waxing area and avoiding certain medications is stressed. This precautionary measure is crucial for minimizing potential complications and ensuring a successful waxing experience.
Eyebrow Waxing:
The article touches upon eyebrow waxing, stating that after the first treatment, one can expect temporary redness and minor irritation. It suggests proper post-wax care, especially if you have a special occasion or holiday planned. This precaution ensures that your skin has time to recover and react appropriately to the treatment.
Dealing with Ingrown Hairs:
The article addresses the possibility of ingrown hairs after waxing. It emphasizes gentle exfoliation and the use of tea tree and lavender oil, known for their antimicrobial properties. Loose-fitting clothing is recommended to reduce moisture, particularly in areas prone to perspiration, like the bikini, lip, and underarms.
Preventing Ingrown Hairs:
Preventing ingrown hairs involves avoiding certain activities and products for the first 24-48 hours after waxing. The article advises against exfoliating products, direct sun exposure, tight clothing, and excessive heat, among other things. This information is crucial for clients to follow post-waxing to maintain skin health.
Benefits of Waxing:
The article explains the long-term benefits of waxing, including softer, finer, and thinner hair regrowth. It emphasizes that waxing, unlike shaving, removes hair from the root, resulting in a more refined texture as the hair grows back.
Misconceptions about Waxing:
The article dispels common misconceptions about waxing, such as the fear of hair growing back thicker or stronger. It clarifies that waxing does not stimulate additional hair follicles and, with regular sessions, can lead to sparser and finer hair growth.
Brazilian and Hollywood Waxing:
For those considering Brazilian or Hollywood waxing, the article provides helpful tips. It suggests trimming hair to about 1/2 inch for a more comfortable experience, especially for first-time clients.
In conclusion, the information provided in the article is comprehensive and aligns with established best practices in the field of waxing. Following these guidelines will help individuals achieve optimal results and maintain healthy, smooth skin over time.
