When it comes to waxing, most of us know how to prepare for our waxing sessions, but what about the aftercare? When our skin starts to act up and ingrown hairs start to form – what can we do? Why does this happen? 

Aftercare is just as important as any prep work that goes into your waxing session . Now that your technician has done half the job, let’s take a moment to go over how you can follow up and make sure your waxing results turn out seamlessly.

While there are some “best tips and tricks” to follow, we’ve gone ahead and compiled the absolutely essential guidelines to follow to make sure your skin comes out both looking and feeling radiant.

We can't state this enough – avoid the sun! Yes, you may be feeling confident after your wax, and sure, you may have gotten cleaned up because you knew you were going to be at the beach or at an event. But, sun exposure immediately following a waxing session can cause serious damage to your skin.

Following a wax, your pores and follicles are still recovering. Exposing the epidermis to the sun at this stage allows for your already healing skin to be directly affected by the sun's radiation. On top of any UV damage, when exposed to the sun for long periods of time, the likelihood you’re going to sweat increases. Perspiring in small amounts is not a death sentence, but it can open the door for folliculitis or possible infection.

While exfoliation is important prior to your appointment, it should be kept to a minimum in the days following your waxing session. Because your skin is still trying to heal from the experience when you were getting waxed, the addition of exfoliation will only cause your skin to become irritated and inflamed. After 2 or 3 days have passed you can begin to gently resume your regular exfoliating schedule.

Pro Tip: Inquire with your wax technician about their recommended, gentle post-wax exfoliants.

Lastly, there are going to be some activities that you will need to cut out for just a few days until your skin has fully healed. Submerging your body in water such as swimming pools, hot tubs, or baths, can cause further irritation to the skin and hinder any healing. Similar to being in the sun, participating in activities such as yoga and going to the sauna increases the risk for folliculitis. 

Outside of what you should stay away from, practicing thorough aftercare makes sure that your skin is set up for success. You’re not just making sure your skin heals appropriately, but also nourishing it with important vitamins and minerals to ensure that your skin is nothing short of radiating after your waxing session . 

As briefly discussed before, following your waxing session your skin is porous. Because your follicles are still open, this is a great time to supplement your normal skincare routine with products that nourish your skin. You practically have a new canvas at your fingertips!  

On the other hand, it is important to only use products that are endorsed by estheticians. No, this doesn't mean that the only good options are the expensive ones – it simply means you need to be aware of what’s being applied to your skin. 

In practicing a healthy and routine aftercare system, you limit the likelihood for ingrown hairs to set in. As long as your skin is hydrated, can be allowed to breathe and heal appropriately, and is free of buildup from body oil and dead skin, you will avoid the risk of having those annoying ingrown hairs. 

Outside of your daily moisturizing routine, utilizing special aftercare products designed to nourish your skin following a waxing session will aid the healing process. Luckily for you, there are a wide range of post waxing products that are available to assist you depending on your needs. Products ranging from lotions, gentle exfoliants, and oils can be recommended by your wax technician. 

Here at Mixed Esthetics , we pride ourselves  in curating an educational, yet warm and welcoming environment for everyone looking to enhance their natural beauty. If you’re looking for a wax, a facial, or a chemical peel treatment, call or book online for your next self-love session. Never forget that you’re truly beautiful inside and out!