Waxing dos and don’ts for silky smooth skin

From prepping your skin beforehand to avoiding common post-wax mistakes, a few simple dos and don’ts can make all the difference between flawless results and painful irritation. 

Before waxing

1. Exfoliate gently a day or two before waxing to remove dead skin cells and help prevent ingrown hairs. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to prepare the skin.
2. Keep the skin clean and free from oils, lotions, or makeup. This helps the wax adhere better and results in a smoother finish.
3. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your wax to hydrate your skin, which makes it more elastic and less prone to irritation during waxing. 
4. Choose the right wax – soft wax is great for larger areas like legs, while hard wax is ideal for sensitive areas such as the bikini line or face. Remember to do a patch test with the wax, to ensure it is safe to use on your skin. 
5. Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds at least 24-48 hours before waxing, as sunburned skin is more sensitive and prone to irritation.
6. Refrain from Retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs on the area to be waxed for at least a week prior. These products can thin the skin and increase sensitivity.
7. Skip alcohol and caffeine on the day of your waxing appointment, as these stimulates can heighten skin sensitivity. 

After waxing

1. Soothe your skin by applying a cooling gel or aloe vera to reduce redness and inflammation immediately after waxing.
2. Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid friction on freshly waxed skin.
3. Moisturize daily to keep your skin hydrated with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain softness and prevent dryness.
4. Exfoliate after 48 hours to prevent ingrown hairs, but avoid harsh scrubs.
5. Protect your skin from the sun as waxed skin is more sensitive to UV rays.
6. Say no to hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms for at least 24 hours to avoid further irritation.
7. No heavy workouts for at least 24 hours after waxing to prevent sweating and friction that could irritate the skin.

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