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Achieving silky, hair-free skin through waxing can be incredibly rewarding, but without proper care, the process might leave your clients’ skin sensitive or irritated. That’s why pre and post wax care is essential for ensuring smooth results and preventing issues like redness or ingrown hairs. This guide provides everything you need to know about waxing pre and post care, including products and tips for every step of the process.
One of the key steps in pre wax care is exfoliating your client’s skin. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that can clog pores and create uneven surfaces. This allows the wax to adhere to the hair rather than the skin, reducing discomfort and irritation during the session. Proper exfoliation also prevents ingrown hairs, which can occur when hair grows back trapped under dead skin.
To exfoliate effectively, recommend your clients to choose a gentle scrub or a product containing natural acids like glycolic acid. They also need to avoid harsh scrubbing, which can irritate the skin before waxing. Your clients should exfoliate 1-2 days before the appointment to give their skin enough time to recover from this process. For sensitive areas, a soft exfoliating glove or a mild enzyme cleanser can be used.
For the wax to grip hair effectively, maintaining the proper hair length is critical. The recommended length is approximately ¼ inch, or about the size of a grain of rice. Hair that’s too short may not adhere to the wax, resulting in an incomplete session, while overly long hair can cause unnecessary discomfort and uneven removal.
Before the appointment, tell your client to avoid shaving for at least two weeks to allow the hair to reach the optimal length. If it’s longer than ½ inch, they can gently trim it using scissors or an electric trimmer. This ensures a smoother waxing experience and minimizes the chance of breakage.
Keeping your clients’ skin calm and free of irritants is essential before waxing. They should avoid applying cosmetics with the following ingredients for at least 48 hours, as these can increase skin sensitivity:
Recommend them to skip sunbathing or tanning beds in the days leading up to the appointment, as sun exposure can inflame the skin and increase the risk of post wax irritation. On the day of the session, they should avoid applying heavy lotions, oils, or other pre wax products that create a barrier between the wax and the skin. You can recommend cleansing the area gently with a mild soap or body wash to remove oils or impurities.
Post wax care begins as soon as the waxing session ends. The skin may feel tender or appear red, especially in sensitive areas like the bikini line or face. To soothe irritation, apply products that contain calming ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, or calendula. These natural ingredients help cool the skin, reduce redness, and promote faster healing. A cold compress is an excellent way to reduce swelling and discomfort, too. For added hydration, use a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer designed for sensitive skin. Avoid products with alcohol or synthetic fragrances, as they can exacerbate irritation.
After waxing, the skin is more vulnerable to friction, heat, and bacteria. Give your clients advice on what to wear after the session. Loose, breathable fabrics such as cotton can minimize irritation. Tight clothing, especially around waxed areas, can trap heat and sweat, causing breakouts or discomfort.
Moreover, they need to avoid hot showers, steam rooms, and vigorous exercise for at least 24–48 hours, as heat and sweat can increase skin sensitivity. Similarly, remind them to stay away from direct sunlight or tanning beds. If they need to go outside, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher might be beneficial to protect the skin from UV rays.
Preventing ingrown hairs is a crucial part of post wax care. Once your skin has fully recovered (typically 48 hours after waxing), resume gentle exfoliation 2-3 times per week. Use a mild exfoliating scrub or products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), which work to keep pores clear and the skin smooth.
For areas prone to ingrown hairs, consider using a specialized treatment. These serums often include salicylic or lactic acid, which help reduce inflammation and prevent hairs from curling back into the skin. Consistent exfoliation will not only prevent ingrown hairs but also help maintain the smoothness of your waxed areas.
Hydration is an essential part of maintaining healthy, smooth skin. Drinking plenty of water helps your skin stay elastic, while a good moisturizer keeps it soft and prevents dryness. Apply a gentle, non-comedogenic lotion daily, focusing on waxed areas to maintain smoothness and elasticity. Products with hyaluronic acid are particularly effective for locking in moisture. Hydrated skin allows for smoother waxing results in future sessions, as dryness and flakiness can make the process less effective.
Consistency is key to achieving and maintaining optimal results from waxing. Regular appointments every 4–6 weeks help keep your hair regrowth cycle on track, making each session less painful over time. Regular waxing also reduces the chances of hair breakage, which can lead to ingrown hairs or uneven results.
For the best advice on pre and post wax care, consult a professional esthetician. They can recommend personalized products and techniques based on your skin type and waxing goals. Following their advice ensures your skin remains healthy and radiant between appointments. Waxing can provide smooth, soft, and hair-free skin, but achieving the best results requires attention to detail. By following a comprehensive pre and post wax care routine, you can minimize discomfort, avoid irritation, and enjoy longer-lasting results.
The most essential steps before waxing are:
Afterwards, soothing the skin, staying hydrated, and exfoliating regularly ensure your skin stays smooth and healthy. For enhanced results, use high-quality pre and post wax products tailored to your needs, such as pre wax gels or lotions, after wax oils, cooling gels, or emulsion retardants. With these tips, you’ll make the most of every waxing session while keeping your skin soft, smooth, and glowing.
