waxing aftercare
Both men and women can enjoy the benefits of having smooth, hair free skin.
However we must maintain this smooth, hairless skin. Waxing aftercare is essential to prevent unsightly ingrown hairs, bacterial infections, scarring, itching and having to resort to using antibiotics.
What are ingrown hairs and what can I do to prevent them?
Ingrown hairs form when dry skin cells block the surface opening for hairs growing back after shaving, waxing, electrolysis or any other form of hair removal. Failing to grow out of the skin, the hairs curl inside the follicle underneath the skin and the resulting foreign body reaction causes an unsightly infectious bump. Both women and men suffer from ingrown hairs. To prevent ingrown hairs from forming you must follow the appropriate home care advice:
Exfoliation:
- Removes dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin.
- A coarse dry body mitt can be used on dry skin after waxing before showering each day. Dry brushing is a must.
- This needs to be done at least 2-3 times weekly, start 3 days after your waxing treatment.
Moisturise:
- This nourishes and protects the skin from excessive flaking or irritation.
- This should be done every day. By nourishing the skin the hair is able to grow out onto the skin’s surface.
- Exfoliate the skin at least 2-3 times a week. Dry brushing or rubbing on dry waxed skin (pre shower not in the shower) is essential. Start 3 days after your wax. Brush vigorously to remove the unwanted dry skin cells on the surface of your skin that can create blockages in the top of the follicle. This will prevent hair from growing into the skin.
- Moisturise everyday.
Don’ts
- Exercise for at least 48 hours after your waxing treatment. Sweat is a breeding ground for bacteria!
- No sun/sun bed exposure over the waxed area for at least 48 hours; it will burn severely.
- Do not touch the area with fingers for at least 48 hours afterwards to avoid cross infection.
- Do not touch the area with fingers for at least 48 hours afterwards to avoid cross infection.
- No harsh soaps or acid based products to be applied as these will irritate freshly waxed skin.
- No saunas, public pools, hot spas or hot showers for at least 48 hours afterwards to avoid cross infection. P.S. Cooler showers are fine.