Waxing is one of the most popular techniques used for hair removal and while the results of the treatment usually leave us with what we want – smooth, hair free skin – we have to look after those areas properly, to help avoid any possible discomfort and red bumps. There is a whole list of things it is best to try and avoid after waxing, because your skin is more sensitive after the treatment.
Avoid Heat After Waxing
Firstly, be sure to avoid heat as best as you can for the next 24 hours – this means no hot baths, steam rooms, saunas and jacuzzis because it can aggravate the skin1 (chlorinated pools can also cause aggravation) and can lead to the open pores, developing an infection. To help close the pores, you could try using a tea-tree based moisturiser regularly. Tea tree is a natural antiseptic and will help to soothe and provide an antibacterial to the sensitive skin.2
Cleaning the skin after a wax is very important, as the hair follicles are left open. You could take a warm (but not hot) shower and use antiseptic creams. Using a tea tree or lavender oil based cream is a good way to soothe skin3, but be certain that your hands are completely clean before you apply it.
Allow the Area to Breathe
If you are experiencing irritation, it might be best to avoid friction on the waxed area. This can be done by wearing loose clothing and cotton underwear which will allow the area to breathe; this is especially relevant if you have just had a leg or bikini wax. Apart from allowing the skin to breathe, loose clothing also helps to limit the amount of sweating you do after a wax, as this provides the ideal breeding ground for germs and can cause rashes, irritation, redness and breakouts. Sweating is to be avoided at all costs.
One more thing to note after your treatment is to avoid deodorant or anything perfumed on the affected area for at least 24 hours, as this could make the skin quite sore.
A few days after the treatment, you could try gently exfoliating your skin several times a week to remove dead skin, which should help to prevent ingrown hairs. Be sure to keep your skin hydrated and nourished by adding a moisturiser to your daily skincare routine.
Get Your Legs in Suitable Condition for Their Next Wax!
Re-growth usually starts around one week after the initial session. It is good to avoid shaving between waxing appointments as it disrupts the hair growth cycle; plus, your hairs need to be a certain length before getting waxed the next time. Be sure to let the hair grow a little bit to get your legs in suitable condition for their next wax!
1https://www.scienceiq.com/facts/whatgiveshairitscolor.cfm
2https://www.aad.org/dermatology-a-to-z/for-kids/about-hair/what-gives-hair-its-color
3https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=102074149
