F A Q's of Waxing
I have never been waxed before. How is it done?
What should I expect?
What is the difference between Hard and Soft Wax?
How much will it hurt?
How should I prepare before a treatment?
About post-waxing home care.
What is Brazilian waxing?
How to prepare for Brazilian waxing.
About post-Brazilian waxing home care.
I have never been waxed before. How is it done?
Waxing is the most common method of hair removal in spas today. Hair on any part of the body or face can be waxed. Warm wax is applied to the area and then removed, along with the hair. Waxing reduces hair growth when performed at regular 30-day intervals. Because waxing pulls the hair out by the root, it grows back softer, finer, and thinner. The more you wax, the less hair grows back. Waxing should not be performed if you have particularly sensitive skin, because it pulls off a couple of layers of skin cells along with the hair. Waxing can cause tenderness and swelling. In addition, some medications will cause the skin to react badly to waxing. Don’t wax if you’re taking Retin-A, Accutane, or any type of acne prescription.
What should I expect?
An antiseptic lotion may be applied to cleanse the area first. Some estheticians apply a light dusting of baby powder to be sure the skin is dry before applying the wax. If soft wax is used, the warm wax will be spread on the hairs in a thin layer. A cloth strip (muslin or pellon) is then applied to the wax, and rubbed in the direction of hair growth. The strip is then pulled quickly in the opposite direction of hair growth while the skin is held taut with the other hand. If hard wax is being used, a thicker amount of warm wax is applied and allowed to dry. No cloth strip is applied. The wax is flicked to allow the esthetician to grip it, and it is then pulled off quickly in the opposite direction of hair growth. Hard wax doesn’t adhere to the skin as much as soft wax, and is therefore used on more delicate areas such as the bikini area, underarms and face.
What is the difference between Hard and Soft Wax?
There are two types of wax used: hard and soft. Hard wax, which is easier on delicate skin, is often used on the face, underarms, and bikini area. Soft wax is used on the legs, arms, back, and chest.
How much will it hurt?
Most people tolerate it well, and get used to the sensation after a few treatments. The level of discomfort felt will depend on your level of pain tolerance in general, and on which area is being waxed. If you still find waxing very uncomfortable after several treatments, there are numbing cremes available that can be applied 45 minutes prior to the service. You can also take ibuprofen tablets prior to your appointment to reduce discomfort and decrease inflammation in the waxed area. For women, it is generally advised not to schedule waxing services just prior to or during menstruation, as you can experience more sensitivity to pain at this time and experience more discomfort.
How should I prepare before a treatment?
Let the hair grow out to about a half-inch above the skin. If hairs are too short, the wax won’t adhere strongly enough to pull them out. 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. Do not apply lotion to the skin before your waxing session.
About post-waxing home care.
It is important to care for the waxed area properly after treatment to prevent ingrown hairs, breakouts, or other reactions. Exfoliation, using a loofah sponge or exfoliating gloves with a bath gel, will help keep the skin clear. Avoid using a bar soap because it leaves a film on the body that could cause ingrown hairs. For the face, back, and chest, use a more gentle exfoliant and an anti-breakout lotion (I can recommend some products). Directly after waxing, avoid direct sunlight and tanning booths, especially while the skin is still red from treatment. For 24 hours after waxing, avoid exercise, hot tubs, and products with harsh chemicals, perfumes, or dyes. Apply a gentle moisturizer 24 hours after treatment.
What is Brazilian waxing?
Many people are familiar with bikini waxing, which removes pubic and leg hair that would otherwise show when a bathing suit is worn. Brazilian waxing got its start with the daring bathing suits worn by both sexes on Brazil’s sunny beaches. It is now common in the United States and is preferred by many for the sleek feeling it provides. The treatment involves waxing off all pubic and labial hair from front to back for women and all genital hair for men, including that on the penis and scrotum. A full Brazilian wax involves the removal of all genital hair. You can also request a variation on the standard Brazilian if you prefer to leave a small amount of hair.
How to prepare for Brazilian waxing.
Try to arrive relaxed and ready to bare all. There is no modest way to receive a Brazilian wax. As a professional, your dignity as a person will be my highest priority during the treatment. Be ready to fill out a questionnaire and describe what medications and skin care products you are using. It is best not to schedule just before or during menstruation as it may feel more uncomfortable to be waxed at that time of the month. You can take ibuprofen as recommended 30 minutes prior to your appointment to decrease sensitivity and inflammatory response. There are also numbing cremes that can be applied 30-45 minutes prior to your appointment that can help minimize the discomfort. You should trim the hair to ½” in length for best results prior to your appointment. If it is shorter, the wax may not be effective, and if the hair is longer the wax will tug on the skin more, causing more discomfort. Wax is applied to the area one section at a time. The wax is removed quickly and pressure is applied to the area to minimize discomfort. Cool compresses and soothing gel after the treatment also help to calm and sooth the area. It is normal to have a histamine reaction following waxing in this area, in which you may see red irritated skin and bumps for 24 hours or even longer. This is very common and will subside.
About post-Brazilian waxing home care.
I will personalize what is best for your skin after a treatment. Generally it is recommended that for 24 hours following a Brazilian waxing, you should not sunbathe, use a tanning bed, use a hot tub, be sexually intimate, or perform exercise that will cause significant sweating. Loose clothing is also recommended post Brazilian waxing for maximum comfort. Keep the area clean and gently exfoliate the area to prevent ingrown hairs. I will be happy to recommend products best for you. If you decide you want to continue sporting your Brazilian style, waxing at approximately four-week intervals is recommended to reduce discomfort on follow-up visits. In time, less hair will grow back, and it will become finer and lighter in color.