A Guide to Waxing

Everything You Need to Know About Waxing: Prep, Process & Aftercare

What Is Waxing?

Waxing removes hair from the root using warm or hard wax applied directly to the skin. The wax adheres to the hair (not just the surface like shaving), and when it’s quickly removed, it pulls the hair out from the follicle.

Depending on the area being treated and your hair growth rate, waxing results typically last between 3–6 weeks.

There are three main types of wax:

• Soft wax (strip wax): Applied thinly and removed with a strip—best for large areas like legs or arms.

• Hard wax (hot wax): Applied thickly and removed without a strip—gentler for sensitive areas like the bikini line, underarms, and face.

• Film Wax (sometimes gel wax): A new hybrid wax that can be applied thinly like strip wax, but removed like hard wax (no strip necessary)

🌿 Pre-Wax Preparation

Proper prep makes all the difference between a smooth, comfortable waxing session and an unnecessarily painful one.

1. Let it Grow (But Not Too Much)

Your hair should be about ¼ inch (6mm) long—roughly the length of a grain of rice. Too short and the wax can’t grip; too long and it’ll hurt more.

2. Exfoliate the Day Before

Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating glove 24 hours before your appointment to remove dead skin cells and help prevent ingrown hairs. Avoid exfoliating on the same day—it can make your skin too sensitive.

3. Stay Clean & Dry

Come to your appointment freshly showered but skip oils, lotions, or deodorants—they can create a barrier that prevents the wax from sticking properly.

4. Avoid Caffeine & Alcohol

Both can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation. Opt for water or herbal tea instead.

5. Consider Pain Relief

If you’re worried about discomfort, take a mild pain reliever (like ibuprofen) about 30–45 minutes before your appointment.

What to Expect During Your Wax

Step 1: Consultation & Cleansing

Your therapist will ask a few quick questions about your skin and any recent treatments or medications. They’ll then cleanse the area to remove oils or residue.

Step 2: Wax Application

Depending on the area, your therapist will apply warm (never hot) wax in the direction of hair growth. Once it sets slightly, it’s removed quickly in the opposite direction of growth to pull hair from the root.

Step 3: Aftercare Products

A soothing lotion or oil is applied to calm the skin and remove any wax residue.

Step 4: All Done!

You might notice slight redness or sensitivity afterward—this is completely normal and usually fades within a few hours.

Contraindications: When You Should Avoid Waxing

Waxing isn’t suitable for everyone. You should avoid waxing if:

• You’re using Retin-A, Accutane, or other strong retinoids (these thin the skin and increase risk of tearing).

• You have sunburn, rashes, open wounds, or active breakouts in the area.

• You’ve recently had chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser treatments (wait at least 7–10 days).

• You have circulatory issues, diabetes, or varicose veins—check with your doctor first.

• You’re allergic to wax ingredients, rosin, or fragrance.

  
  

Aftercare: Keeping Skin Smooth & Happy

1. No Touching or Scratching

Your pores are open and sensitive post-wax, so avoid touching the area to prevent bacteria entering.

2. Avoid Heat & Sweat (24–48 Hours)

Skip hot baths, saunas, gym sessions, and direct sun exposure for at least a day or two.

3. Wear Loose Clothing

Tight fabrics can cause irritation or ingrown hairs, especially after a bikini or leg wax.

4. Exfoliate Gently (After 2–3 Days)

Start light exfoliation a few days after waxing to prevent ingrown hairs and keep the skin soft.

5. Moisturise Daily

Hydrated skin = happy follicles. Use a gentle, fragrance-free lotion or a natural body oil.

6. Avoid Tanning & Perfumed Products

Your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays and chemicals right after waxing.

💬 FAQs

1. Does waxing hurt? Yes, but it’s temporary and often described as a quick sting. The more consistently you wax, the less it hurts over time as hair grows back finer.

2. How long will it last? Results last anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on your hair growth cycle and the area waxed.

3. Can I shave between waxes? It’s best not to! Shaving disrupts the hair growth cycle and can make your next wax less effective.

4. Can I wax during my period? Yes, but your skin may be more sensitive. Wear a tampon or menstrual cup and let your therapist know.

5. What if I get ingrown hairs? Use a gentle exfoliator and apply an ingrown hair serum or tea tree oil to reduce inflammation.

6. Is waxing safe during pregnancy? Generally, yes—but skin can be more sensitive due to hormonal changes. Always check with your doctor and let your therapist know you’re pregnant.

7. Can I get waxed if I have tattoos? Yes! Just make sure the tattoo is fully healed before waxing over it.

Final Thoughts

Waxing can be a fantastic way to achieve smooth, long-lasting results—provided you prep your skin properly and follow good aftercare. With regular sessions, you’ll likely notice that your hair grows back finer, your skin stays softer, and your waxing appointments become easier over time.

If you’re nervous before your first wax, don’t be! I will guide you through each step and make the experience as comfortable as possible.

Smooth, glowing skin awaits—so book that appointment and enjoy the confidence that comes with it!