Question:

Now that summer is approaching, I am thinking about removing my unwanted hair by waxing. I have never had it done before, so I am a little concerned about the pain and not sure what exactly to expect. Can you ease my worries, and let me know what I should be aware of before I make an appointment? Thank you!

Answer:

Many individuals have similar concerns before their first waxing appointment; you are not alone. First, it is helpful to know the reasons that would prevent someone from being waxed. Two of the most common reasons for not being able to be waxed are medications and tanning or sunbathing within 48 hours before the appointment. Some medications, such as oral and topical acne medications and Prednisone thin the layers of the skin and increase sensitivity. Therefore, these medications should be avoided for six months prior to a waxing session. Products containing alpha hydroxyl acid have similar effects on the skin and should be avoided for two months before waxing. An aesthetician will conduct a consultation before the waxing to make sure waxing is right for you at that specific time. Therefore, it is important to let your aesthetician know all the medications and products you are using.

Individuals with a disease that compromises the immune system should also use caution before waxing. Inform the aesthetician of your situation, so infection is prevented from the open follicles after waxing. Additionally, waxing is not recommended for menstruating women because of the skin’s heightened sensitivity at that time. Also, keep in mind that hair removal should not be done with hair on moles or warts.

Despite the aforementioned reasons not to be waxed, most waxing sessions are quite routine and problem-free. Nearly every area on the body can be waxed, except for hair on the head and men’s beards because of the large hair follicles. The most common areas for waxing are legs, bikini, back, chest, underarms, arms, women’s facial areas, stomach, and feet. One of the most common question I receive before an initial appointment is how long the hair should be. The hair should ideally be ¼ of an inch or longer, which is typically two to three weeks of growth. Hair should not exceed one or two inches in length. If necessary, the hair should be trimmed first to reach ¼ of an inch.

One of the major benefits of consistent waxing is that hair will grow back much finer and lighter in color than before. In most cases, waxing will need to be done about every three to four weeks. A waxing routine will eventually cause enough damage and trauma to the hair papilla, the bulb at the end of a hair follicle, that the hair will even cease to grow in certain areas. However, waxing will still be necessary as the growth may be spotted. Once you begin waxing, it is best to have a routine rather than switch to shaving, since shaving will cause your hair to grow back coarser.

The time it takes for a waxing session depends on the area being waxed. For instance, eyebrows or other facial areas take about 15 minutes, the arms, underarms, bikini, stomach take 30 minutes, the back may take around 45 minutes, and expect about an hour for a Brazilian.

There are two different types of waxing. Strip waxing consists of a cloth pressed over hot wax and quickly removed against the hair growth. This is typically used for large areas of the body, such as the legs, arms, and back. Hard wax is a method of waxing that is done on the smaller and more sensitive areas. When this type of waxing is performed the wax is hardened on the skin and flicked off one end until completely removed against the hair growth. This type works especially well for people with sensitive skin because it shrink wraps around the hair rather than presses completely against the skin.

Many first timers worry about the pain involved, but you will find that it is a very quick pain similar to that of removing a band aid. The pain goes away as soon as the wax is pulled off. Sensitive areas such as the bikini area may be tender and red for 24 hours. Some clients will notice small bumps on the newly waxed area, which is the just the body’s reaction to the recent trauma. If you continue to wax, your body will become accustomed to it and the bumps will not occur. When new hair growth begins, it is best to exfoliate with a body scrub in the shower to help prevent any bumps.

If you have any additional questions or would like to set up an appointment, please call the salon at 330-5660. Pricing information can be found on the Creative Hair Design Salon and Spa Web site at www.creativehairdesign.com.

By Kris Kramer
Aesthetician

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