Waxing 101
Common Side Effects of Waxing
Over time the potential for most of the side effects of waxing usually diminish as the skin gets more and more acclimated to the treatment. Any side effect that lasts more than a week or looks extremely serious should be looked at by a doctor.
Allergic reactions: Some people may have a skin allergy to the ingredients of the wax. Ask your technician to preform a skin test if you are highly sensitive.
Bleeding and bruising: There is always a small risk that some pieces of skin may tear during the removal of wax. Subcutaneous bleeding (bleeding under the skin- bruises) is also possible for sensitive skin.
Redness and swelling: This is the most common side effect to waxing. The temperature of the wax combined with removing hair can take a toll. This is normally very short lived and can be minimized with the application of a cold compress or ice after your treatment.
Infections: This is a risk for those with conditions (especially of the skin) that normally leave them susceptible to infections. Diabetic guests should be cautious or avoid waxing for this reason.
Ingrown hairs: This is a side effect of all forms of hair removal. It is usually made better through waxing. Guests with more sensitive skin are more susceptible to this. There are many steps you can take to prevent and treat ingrown hairs. (Read below)
Pimples and dry skin: Waxing not only removes hair, but it can also remove the portions of the top layer of skin. It is a great exfoliant, but it can also strip the skin of it's important oils and leave it dry. Overly dry skin can lead to increased oil production, which clogs pores and leads to breakouts. Most common on the face area.
Skin burns and discoloration: This is usually a result of using wax that is too hot or for guests who are highly sensitive. Post-inflammatory hyper pigmentation can also occur leaving dark spots on the skin.
How To Prevent Side Effects
Avoid if you have diabetes: Diabetics are advised to avoid waxing as they are more prone to side effects listed above.
Avoid the sun: It is recommended that you do not expose the skin to direct sunlight without the use of sunblock for at least a day or two after waxing. If an adverse reaction has occurred, the sun should be avoided completely as it can make things worse and lead to discoloration.
Cleanse before your wax: A simple and gentle cleansing of the skin before your wax treatment can remove dead skin, bacteria and debris that could clog pores after waxing. This will help reduce bumps and breakouts.
Apply something cold after your wax: A cold compress or ice pack can help reduce swelling, irritation or redness that may appear.
Medication precautions: Certain medications can affect the skin and make it easier to tear. This includes Retin-A, Accutane and Differin. If you have used any of these medications, you may not be eligible to be waxed.
Test your skin: Before having a treatment, have our technician apply and remove wax on a small test area of skin. This can be extremely helpful for those with sensitive skin. Waxing should not be done on skin that contains sores, bruises, cuts or sunburned skin.