Preparation can make a huge difference in your waxing results. While there are plenty of ways to get your skin ready for your appointment, you should also stop doing a few things before your wax. If you want to protect your skin, get the best possible results, and make your appointment as comfortable as possible, here are five things to stop doing before your wax.
- Stop Using Retinol, AHAs, BHAs, And Other Chemical Exfoliants
Who doesn’t love a good skincare routine? You may be in your self-care era, but we promise that using these products before a wax is going to do way more harm than good. Here’s why:
- Retinol: Speeds up cell turnover and slightly thins the outer layer of your skin, making it fragile and sensitive. Wax adheres to both skin and hair, which means it can actually lift the skin as well as the hair when waxing, leading to raw patches, scarring, and irritation.
- AHAs, or alpha-hydroxy acids: An exfoliating acid used in skincare. This chemical exfoliant thins and weakens the outer layer of the skin, making it prone to skin lifting, burns, and irritation.
- BHAs, or beta-hydroxy acids: A chemical exfoliant that penetrates pores and dissolves excess oil, dirt, etc. BHAs leave the skin fragile, raw, and hypersensitive, leading to skin lifting and tearing when waxing after use.
It is always best to consult your dermatologist, but it is generally recommended to stop the use of chemical exfoliants a minimum of 7 days before a wax for standard AHAs and BHAs and 2 weeks for retinols and prescription creams. Always wait at least 48-72 hours after a wax before using chemical exfoliants again.
- Stop Tanning
Always avoid sunbathing and tanning beds for 24-48 hours before AND after a wax. Sun exposure makes skin more sensitive, and waxing irritated or damaged skin can cause additional discomfort. You should also skip self-tanners before a wax, as they will interfere with the waxing process and leave your skin looking patchy and uneven. If you have a sunburn, significant redness, or irritated skin in the area you want waxed, let your specialist know before your appointment. We may recommend waiting until your skin has recovered.
- Stop Using Lotions And Oils The Day Of
On the day of your wax, simple is best! Arrive with dry, clean skin, and avoid applying lotions, oils, deodorant, perfumes, and other products to the area being waxed. These products can create a barrier between the wax and the hair, making it difficult for the wax to grab the hair properly.
Your specialist will apply lightweight, moisturizing products after your wax and also recommend products to use afterwards at home.
- Stop Drinking Alcohol Or Caffeine
Your morning coffee may be non-negotiable, but if you’re heading in for a wax, you may want to avoid it. Alcohol and caffeine make your skin feel sensitive, making the experience more uncomfortable. If possible, avoid alcohol and caffeine before your appointment. Instead, drink plenty of water and arrive hydrated. Your skin will thank you.
- Stop Shaving And Trimming
If you have a wax on the calendar, do not shave! Wax needs to be able to grip the hair, so shaving and trimming right before your appointment can leave the hair too short for an effective wax. Waxing also helps sync your hair growth cycles, and shaving throws off this schedule, leaving hairs at different stages. It’s best to leave it to your specialist.
Ready For Your Wax?
Next time you come in for a wax, come in prepared! Prepping for your appointment doesn’t have to be complicated; just be sure to take a break from harsh exfoliants, avoid tanning, skip products on the day of, reduce stimulants, and let your hair grow out. A little preparation goes a long way toward a smoother appointment and happier skin afterward. Ready for your next appointment? Book today!
