What Should You Do Before Waxing?

Before you start waxing, whether at-home or in the salon, it’s important to prep your skin properly. Good preparation ensures your skin is ready for a smooth and effective wax, making the process more comfortable and yielding better results. Let’s dive into the essential tips to get your skin in the best shape for waxing.

Skincare Do’s and Dont’s

  • Avoid using strong skincare products like retinoids and exfoliants a few days before your waxing appointment to keep your skin calm.
  • Gently exfoliate the area the day before to remove dead skin and prepare for a smoother wax.
  • Keep your skin hydrated but skip heavy creams on waxing day to ensure the wax adheres properly.

Can I Shower Right Before Waxing?

  • Yes, you can shower right before waxing. Cleansing your skin removes any oils or makeup, helping the wax stick better. A warm shower or bath can also soften your skin, making hair removal easier. Make sure your skin is thoroughly dry afterward, as wax doesn't adhere to damp skin.

Hair Length Consideration

  • Stop shaving or plucking at least 2 weeks before your appointment to give your hair the right length for waxing. Your hair should be about 1/2 inch for the best results.

Patch Testing:

Timing and Planning:

  • Consider avoiding caffeine before your wax to help reduce sensitivity, and if you're concerned about discomfort, taking an ibuprofen an hour before can help.
  • Schedule your wax a few days before any important event to allow any redness to subside.

What to Do After Waxing

After your waxing session, giving your skin the right care is crucial for maintaining smoothness and preventing irritation. For bikini wax aftercare, as well as other areas, follow a few key steps to soothe your skin, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your results last longer. Let’s explore how to properly care for your skin post-wax to keep it looking and feeling fabulous.

Immediate Post Wax Care:

  • Apply a soothing gel or lotion to calm the skin after waxing. Aloe vera gel has a cooling, soothing effect, helping to rehydrate the skin and reduce the appearance of any bumps.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid irritating the freshly waxed area. Tight clothing can rub against sensitive skin, causing discomfort.

What Not to Do After Waxing:

  • Avoid sun exposure immediately after waxing, as your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays. If you can’t avoid the sun, apply sunscreen to the waxed area.
  • Steer clear of gyms, saunas, and steam rooms for at least 48 hours post-waxing. Excessive heat and sweat can irritate your skin and cause redness or bumps.
  • It can be tempting to grab a razor when you notice some regrowth but resist the urge! Shaving can make hair appear thicker and darker, setting you back to square one. Stick with waxing to remove the entire follicle and keep hair growing back in its natural state.

Moisturizing & Exfoliating After Waxing:

  • Healthy, hydrated skin is crucial for maintaining your wax. Regularly moisturize to keep your skin smooth and prevent dryness. After exfoliating, use a rich moisturizer to soothe the skin and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.
  • After waxing, give your skin 2-3 days to heal. Start exfoliating weekly when you notice new hair sprouting to prevent ingrown hairs. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer daily to keep your skin smooth and hydrated. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, while moisturizing prevents dryness and breakage.

Perfecting Your Wax Routine

For a smooth and successful waxing experience, proper pre- and post-waxing care is key. Preparing your skin before your wax and nurturing it afterward can make all the difference in achieving stunning, long-lasting results. Don’t forget to explore our related articles for more tips and tricks on hair removal.