Post Waxing Care - How To Avoid Common Skin Problems After Waxing

Last updated on : August 20 2023

Introduction - The Importance of Post-Waxing Aftercare  

You've done your homework before your waxing appointment—ensured the ideal hair length, meticulously cleaned your skin, and mentally prepared for the session. But have you considered what comes next?

It's easy to underestimate the significance of post-waxing procedures, often overshadowed by the anticipation and sometimes discomfort of the actual waxing process. However, these post-waxing practices are the key to preserving your skin's health and appearance.

Once the hair removal is complete, your skin enters a period of heightened sensitivity. It's a crucial phase where well-intentioned actions can nurture your skin or cause unintended harm. From soothing the aftermath of the treatment to warding off potential skin problems, each step of the post-waxing care routine is designed to help you embrace the best version of your skin.

By adopting the correct post-waxing skincare regimen, you're aiding in the recovery process and also taking a proactive stance against issues like irritation, ingrown hairs, and pimples.

Your skin deserves your utmost attention, and proper care at this juncture can result in reduced hair growth and a smoother, more comfortable waxing experience in the long run.

In the following article, we'll unravel the secrets to effective post-waxing care, offering insights and tips that cater to every part of your body, from face to bikini line.

Common Skin Conditions After Waxing

Before we dive into the five post-wax care commandments, let's take a look at some of the most common skin conditions that can cause bumps after waxing.

The most common skin condition to develop after waxing is red bumps. These could surface right after the wax treatment or become visible a week later if you neglect proper skincare.

However, there are other conditions, including ingrown hairs, contact dermatitis, and folliculitis and pimples. Let's cover each in turn. 

Ingrown Hairs: 

We all know how annoying, painful, and unappealing ingrown hairs can be. Besides the pain, small bumps that look like pimples might appear on the skin's surface, becoming infected if you don't take the proper precautions. 

Turning to a waxing expert or dermatologist will address your most pressing concerns regarding ingrown hairs, but remember that genetics and coarse or curly hair can be stubborn factors in some instances. 

While it might be impossible for some of us to get rid of ingrown hairs completely, exfoliating between waxes and applying skin products formulated for ingrown hairs are the most effective ways to prevent or minimize the impact. 

Many dermatologists recommend mild exfoliants that contain lactic, salicylic, or glycolic acid as the base because these can accelerate the skin renewal cycle. 

In extreme cases, you might require an antibiotic or culture at a doctor's office.

Contact Dermatitis: 

Even though practitioners might carry out the waxing procedure with extra safety, acute skin reactions can still occur. 

Allergic reactions, burning, inflammation, or peeling skin are all possible symptoms of certain chemicals that come into contact with the skin. 

Some people might be more vulnerable than others since it depends on the skin's composition or even on heavily perfumed products applied before or after the treatment. 

If you observe redness, rashes, or mild bruising after a wax treatment, proper medication and care of the affected area can minimize the risk.

Prioritizing quality skincare products will ensure your skin experiences fewer reactions and that you get excellent results. 

Folliculitis and Pimples:

While it's relatively rare to occur after waxing, folliculitis is a skin condition that happens when hair follicles are damaged and infected with bacteria. 

Waxing can leave pores exposed, and bacteria can easily invade the skin if it's prone to skin conditions such as acne. 

Doing your due diligence and following the proper sanitation and hygiene measures will reduce such risks. You should also avoid picking the irritated area and wear loose clothing that doesn't rub against the skin. 

Now that we're familiar with the most common skin conditions after hair removal, it's critical to adopt the most effective tips to keep your skin radiant, healthy, and less sensitive to the side effects of waxing.

The 5 Post-Wax Care Tips You Should Always Keep in Mind

You've prepared for your wax at your salon or home, endured the pain successfully, and you're ready to strut your hairless and exfoliated skin with a cute outfit. 

You might feel like you can absolve yourself from any other responsibility, but this is a false premise. Poor post-wax treatment can prolong pain and result in additional unwanted after effects, such as the various painful and unattractive skin conditions we described above.

To avoid any negative aftereffects, try these five post-wax care tips. 

1. Avoid Excess Exposure To Water and Sun

While the warm weather after a summer wax session can be tempting, we highly recommend that you avoid sun exposure and salty, chlorinated, or hot water for 48 hours after hair removal. 

Sun radiation can be highly damaging to irritated skin, and saltwater or chlorine can contain bacteria that could cause an infection or allergic reaction. 

Playing it safe for two days will ensure you enjoy those warm summer days with confidence and smooth skin. 

If your work or daily routine involves exposure to sunlight, you should apply sunscreen to all waxed and exposed areas. UV rays can be extra violent towards freshly waxed skin, so reapplying a generous amount of high SPF sunscreen frequently can minimize any harmful effects.

2. Exfoliate (Exfoliate, Exfoliate) Gently

We mentioned exfoliation earlier, but we can't stress this enough! 

Exfoliation should become a part of your daily routine because it removes debris and dead skin that might impact the hair removal process. 

Additionally, you will witness better results during your subsequent treatment since the wax will adhere to the skin more easily. 

Without exfoliation, you're also more likely to develop ingrown hairs because you're leaving dead skin cells to populate on the skin's surface. 

Dead skin cells can cause the rejuvenation process to take longer and bacteria to get trapped in the skin, blocking your pores. 

To exfoliate the waxed areas, use your hands or a scrubbing tool to apply a small amount of the exfoliant to the skin. 

With circular motions, gently scrub the entire surface, and leave the exfoliate to sit on your skin for three minutes. 

Then rinse off and apply a natural moisturizer or oil to leave your skin smooth and soft.

3. Skip The Workout For A Day Or Two

We understand that you're trying to stay in swimsuit shape, but immediately working out after your wax treatment can propel infections, ingrown hairs, and other types of skin inflammations. 

A rule of thumb is to wait at least twenty-four hours before fitting a high-intensity workout into your schedule again. Your skin is sensitive after waxing and needs to rest for a while.  

If you're a fitness fanatic who never skips a workout, then choose a workout program that won't make you sweat. 

You could try yoga or stretching or another exercise that avoids too much movement in the lower body, which can cause more irritation after a waxing session.

4. Be Diligent With Skin Care (Aloe to the Rescue!)

Aloe vera gel is a natural remedy that can work wonders on irritated skin. 

If you already have an aloe vera plant, even better. You can apply the plant's essence onto the skin and wait for it to absorb it. 

We recommend applying aloe vera three times daily after wax treatments. More specifically, you should follow this process for at least five days after you visit the waxing salon.

5. Choose Comfortable Clothes

Tight clothing will only exacerbate irritation and pain (if you're experiencing any side effects). Generally, you should avoid uncomfortable clothing even if your skin shows no sign of infection. 

If you get your bikini line waxed, jeans and heavy material can cause bumps, irritation, breakouts, and other skin infections to crop up.

Choose light and cotton clothing that leaves your skin room to breathe.

Waxing v Shaving

Compared to shaving, waxing is a more robust hair removal procedure, ripping the hair from its root. Repetitive pulling with waxing strips (or without if you're using hard wax) can cause pain, redness, bumps, ingrown hairs, or burn, so keeping the waxed area moisturized and sanitized will prevent such debacles. 

Now many might prefer shaving due to its simplistic nature and the less accountability for skincare afterward. 

However, the benefits of waxing outweigh those of shaving, so adjusting to the proper post-waxing skincare routine will leave you with flawless and healthy skin. 

Conclusion

When we're freshly waxed, we rarely consider the side effects that can cause great harm to our skin. 

Turning a blind eye to the tips mentioned above can even cause irreparable damage or ultimately affect your waxing routine with poor results. 

Remembering to implement these simple tips will keep your newly waxed skin glowing, smooth and irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the questions most frequently asked by our readers.

1. What is post-waxing care, and why is it important? 

Post-waxing care involves taking specific steps to soothe and protect your skin after waxing. It's crucial to prevent potential skin problems and maintain smooth, healthy skin.

2. What are some common skin problems that can occur after waxing? 

Common issues include redness, irritation, ingrown hairs, and pimples. Proper aftercare can help minimize these problems.

3. How can I reduce redness and irritation after waxing?

Applying aloe vera gel or a cooling moisturizer can help calm the skin. Avoid tight clothing and hot showers immediately after waxing.

4. What's the best way to prevent ingrown hairs?

Exfoliating a couple of days after waxing can help prevent ingrown hairs. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating gloves to remove dead skin cells.

5. Can I apply makeup or sunscreen right after waxing? 

It's best to wait a few hours before applying makeup to avoid irritation. However, using a gentle, non-comedogenic sunscreen is usually fine.

6. How can I avoid pimples after waxing, especially on sensitive areas like the face?

Cleanse your skin with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser after waxing. Avoid heavy creams in favor of lightweight, oil-free moisturizers.

7. Is it okay to exercise after waxing?

It's better to skip intense workouts for a day or two after waxing to prevent excessive sweating and friction on the waxed areas.

8. Can I swim or take a hot bath after waxing? 

It's recommended to avoid hot baths and swimming pools for at least 24 hours post-waxing to prevent irritation.

9. How often should I exfoliate my skin after waxing?

Exfoliate 2-3 times a week to prevent ingrown hairs. However, avoid exfoliating on the day of your waxing session.

10. What should I do if I experience prolonged redness or irritation after waxing? 

If redness or irritation persists beyond a couple of days, consult a dermatologist. They can provide personalized advice and recommend suitable products.

Remember, taking care of your skin post-waxing can make a significant difference to the overall health of your skin. Happy waxing and caring for your skin.

Don't Forget To Share On Pinterest

Related Topics

• Face And Skin Care Routines, Tips And Products You Need To Know
• How to Age Gracefully With These Four Skincare Hacks
• The Best At Home Hair Removal Techniques
• 15 Natural Ways To Take Care Of And Treat Your Scalp Perfectly