Here are some tips for pre + post waxing. It's important that you follow these recommendations for maximum results.
PRE-WAX:
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Please allow at least 3-4 weeks of hair growth prior to your appointment. This is how long it takes for the hair to complete the growth cycle, so this ensures you receive the best results. If the hair is too short, it may not be picked up by the wax & may cause breakage of the hair which can be painful & can result in ingrown hairs. Trimming isn't necessary prior to your appointment, but if you must do so make sure you do not use an electric razor as it can make the hair blunt like shaving & can be hard to wax as well. I recommend using a regular pair of scissors & trim lightly. You can also allow me to trim the hair if needed.
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Avoid exposure to the sun/tanning beds prior to your appointment as it can make your skin more sensitive and susceptible to skin lifting. If sunburned, it is best to wait for the skin to calm down for a few weeks before waxing.
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Waxing exfoliates the skin and can lift the tan if it's been less than 48 hours. Tanning a day or two after your wax session is best advised.
Pain Management:
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Taking ibuprofen at least 30 minutes before your appointment can help reduce any discomfort you may experience during your wax.
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Limit your caffeine intake on the day of your appointment as caffeine can stimulate the nervous system causing your skin to be more sensitive. Also, avoid any alcohol or any other recreational substances the day of as it can cause sensitivity as well.
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It is ok to wax while on your menstrual cycle, but please be advised that you may be more sensitive than normal which may heighten any discomfort. If you choose to do so it is mandatory that you wear a tampon during your wax while on your menstrual cycle. However, most women experience mild discomfort, so it is at your own discretion.
Many products can cause negative effects such as skin lifting and extreme irritation when waxing the face & body due to their strong ingredients. Any skin medication you are prescribed, it is always important to consult with your doctor first to make sure it is safe to wax. Also, be aware of any medications that alert you of sun exposure as those will also cause skin sensitivity as well.
How long to wait before getting waxed:
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Retinol, Retin-A, Retinoic Acid: 3 Days - 1 Week
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Accutane, Roaccutane, Isotretinoin: 1 Year, 6 Months
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Steroids (Oral or Topical) & Antibiotics: 2 Weeks
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Hydroquinone: 1 - 2 Weeks
Although waxing is discouraged while using these products, there are other options available such as tweezing.
POST-WAX:
First 24 hours:
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Please avoid touching the waxed areas after your appointment. Bacteria on your fingers can enter the open follicle and cause irritation or breakouts.
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Avoid the beach & pool/jacuzzi. Dirty water contains bacteria which can cause irritation & breakouts. Chlorine from the pool can also irritate the skin making it sensitive and/or prone to breakouts.
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Avoid exercising and saunas on the day of your appointment. Unfortunately, sweat can get trapped in the hair follicles causing irritation & breakouts after waxing.
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Avoid makeup after facial waxing for the rest of the day if you can. The pores in your face are still open from waxing and makeup can clog the pores and cause potential breakouts.
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Avoid deodorant the day of waxing, at the very least a few hours after as deodorant traps sweat and can get into the open pores after waxing. Underarms are slightly sensitive after waxing & ingredients in deodorants can cause irritation/ingrown hairs.
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Chemical peels should be avoided for at least one-week post-facial waxing.
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Avoid tight clothing after your wax. Loose fitted pants, dresses, and breathable (cotton) underwear are best suggested.
At Home Care:
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It is recommended that you exfoliate a few days prior to your wax as exfoliating is great for your skin & helps the hairs lift better. I recommend using a gentle exfoliation for the face & a body polish for your body. Regular exfoliation is highly important as it removes the dead skin cells from your body & makes waxing easier. One of the great benefits of waxing consistently is that your hair over time will start to grow much thinner and finer! If you are not exfoliating the layer of dead skin cells off, then your hair may have trouble breaking through the surface which can cause an ingrown.
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Try to shower immediately after waxing to avoid irritation from possible sweating. Slightly warm to cool water is best as it helps calm the skin and close the pores.
GOAL OF WAXING:
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When you first start waxing, the pores are strong at the initial stage and take time to adjust to being waxed. The first visit is usually (but not always) the most painful as the hairs are at their thickest. Of course, everyone's pain tolerance is different, and with my knowledge and experience I do my best at giving you the best quality results with the least amount of pain. The key is consistency averaging about every 4 weeks. Before your first wax and/or in between visits it is important that you must allow your hair to grow out a minimum of 3 weeks. Otherwise, the hair is too short to wax and can cause breakage and ingrown hairs. Some cases are allowed but seldom. When waxing, over time the pores will become smaller, and the hair will grow finer. This is the goal and as a result your hair will slow down making each visit further apart. Sounds great, right?
Whether this is your first time waxing or are consistent it can be important to follow these few steps before & after your appointments to ensure your experience is as comfortable and easy as possible.