Estheticians agree that personal waxing is fast becoming the most sought-after method of any hair removal system. And why not? Other hair removal systems can be expensive, ineffective, and complicated with possible dangerous side effects. If you have not experienced personal body waxing, and think you may want to give it a try, you’ll have a few questions to ask before you embark on a commitment like this. The worst part of beginning a waxing routine is not knowing what to expect. I have put together a brief question and answer forum with the most commonly asked questions listed below. The answers apply to all parts of the body, although some may be a bit more sensitive than others.
Q. What length does the hair on my body have to be to get a successful body wax?
For the best results, we normally like about a 2 to 3 weeks of hair growth or approximately 1/4″. I know this may be uncomfortable, but the waxing process depends on enough hair to attach to in order to see good results.
Q. Do I need to do anything in order to get ready for my first body waxing?
About 2 to 3 days before your waxing appointment, you need to keep in mind two things. Stay out of the sun and exfoliate. Do not do any sunbathing or have any sun exposure for 48 hours before your appointment. Also, two or three days before your scheduled waxing, you need to gently scrub the area to be waxed with an exfoliator. Be sure it’s a mild exfoliator and you do not scrub too much. Then, on the day of the waxing, just cleanse your body as usual, without exfoliating, and rinse thoroughly, avoiding body products like lotions, deodorant, perfume, powders, and oils. These products must be avoided as they can cause discomfort and irritation to the skin during or after the waxing process.
Q. Does waxing hurt?
Honestly, the actual waxing process may cause a bit of discomfort or may sting a bit. People all have levels of pain that they can handle. Keep in mind that the first waxing will be the most uncomfortable as there is more hair to remove. Each time you visit your esthetician for the next waxing in your schedule, you will experience less discomfort. It’s hard to judge how much pain or discomfort is involved, but there wouldn’t be so many women choosing this method of hair removal if it was unbearable. One thing to know is that your skin is most sensitive during your period, so avoid scheduling a waxing during your period, or, for that matter, any time your skin is under any stress.
Q. If I’m having a bikini wax, can I leave my panties on?
Your panties can remain on, if you choose. However, your esthetician will provide you with disposable underwear if you would like to be covered, but don’t want your own panties to accidentally come in contact with any wax. Ask your esthetician before you begin what you need to know about a bikini wax and what to expect during the waxing procedure. Before you begin is the time to discuss the actual bikini line you want the waxing to follow on your body. Keep in mind that any time you feel uncomfortable during a bikini wax procedure, you should let your esthetician know that you’ll need to stop for a moment. If you feel uncomfortable with the procedure or your esthetician isn’t willing to listen to you, you’ll want to stop the waxing service and find another, more professional, esthetician.
Q. After the waxing is over, do I need to baby my skin?
Treat your skin to a little rest and relaxation for about 48 hours after the waxing. As before the waxing, avoid the sun for at least 24 hours, and definitely stay our of any tanning bed for 48 hours or more. Just like before waxing, stay away from any lotions, powders, perfumes, and especially any product that contains scents and/or alcohol. They both will set up a real burning sting on your delicate skin.
Q. How long will I be able to go between waxings before I see hair growing in again?
It all depends on how fast your hair grows and if you are just starting your waxing routine. Some people may not be able to go longer than 2 weeks, while others can go as long as 6 weeks. However, the longer you have been on a regular waxing schedule, the longer each waxing will last. Hair grows in cycles which means it’s appearing at different intervals. Each time you wax, you are only removing the hair that’s made an appearance thus far; there are more hairs waiting underneath that will show up in the next few days. Because of that, it may take up to 3 waxing sessions to have all your hair growing in different intervals finally removed. So, your legs will probably not be smooth for about 3 waxing appointments. After that, you’ll notice that you will be able to go longer between waxings without seeing hair.
So, is waxing the answer for you? You may not be sold yet, but ask yourself the next time you have to wear jeans instead of shorts or a skirt if you wouldn’t be a little more relaxed knowing that you don’t have to regret not shaving your legs… again. See if, when you’re at the beach or pool, it wouldn’t be a whole lot nicer to concentrate on the sun and fun without tucking the stray hairs back into your swimsuit bottom, hoping no one sees you. If you can rid yourself of your razor, and all the problems they cause, would you consider waxing? I think it’s time to give your esthetician a call and make an appointment to chat a bit about the benefits of waxing.
Charlotte Field is a Skin Care Specialist offering Facials in Pensacola, Florida. She specializes in Anti-aging, Relaxation and Results. And, yes, she offers body waxing in a comfortable setting. Learn more about her services at FacialsbyCharlotte.com.