How to care your skin pre, during and post waxing session

I know of people who have kissed goodbye to waxing only because they couldn’t endure the pain. But really, does it need to hurt that bad? Having been in the business for years now, I can vouch that there are ways to make waxing way more bearable. Certain tips and tricks can make waxing an enjoyable (no, I don’t think it can ever be enjoyable) rather near to pain-free experience.

These tips are divided into 3 stages – pre-waxing, waxing and post waxing. A little prep work and a bit aftercare can make an immense difference.

Pre-waxing Tips

Choose the Day

Firstly, plan out your waxing day thoughtfully. It is best to avoid waxing, even if it’s not bikini wax, during the periods as body’s reception to pain is higher during those days of the month. The ideal time is around ovulation, 2-3 days after your periods.

Make sure you have enough hair

Length of your hair is something to watch for if you wish your encounter to pass smooth. Let it grow back at least a quarter of an inch so that the wax binds with your hair thoroughly to pull it out as quickly as possible.

Exfoliate

Exfoliating your skin a few days before your waxing schedule is ideal. This helps you get rid of dead skin and clogged pores thereby opening hair follicles.

Painkillers can be lifesavers

Over the counter pain killers, such as Advil or Tylenol, can be taken half an hour before your waxing appointment. This will ease the pain to a great extent. On sensitive areas, you may apply numbing cream half an hour before waxing.

Take a shower

A warm bath before stepping out for your waxing appointment can calm your nerves and soften your hairs.

Talk to your therapist

Be open to your therapist about your fears, also discuss with her regarding the choice of your wax. Taking some time to relax before your wax is just perfect.

Waxing – stage

Check

See if your therapist is holding your skin taut, whether she is applying the wax in the direction of the hair growth and whether she is going to pull it off quickly and efficiently. Do not hesitate, even for a second, to tell your therapist if the wax is too hot or if it is hurting you in any way.

Distractions work

This could be the perfect time to watch your favourite series, music video or a film. Distractions help! So, if you could get hold of anything that can take your mind away from the process, cling to it!

Post-waxing

Change into comfy clothes

Cotton underwear and dresses are the best as they let your skin breathe underneath. If you don’t have cotton, opt for loose fitting dresses. Super tight clothing can damage your sensitive skin.

Say no to exercise

Avoid working out for a day post-wax. Your skin has already been through enough; it would appreciate a break from work out for next 10-12 hrs.

Moisturise

It is essential to keep your skin hydrated. If moisturising is not part of your beauty regime, then add it immediately and follow through for as long as you can.

No hot showers

Hot showers can open up pores and drain the skin of its moisture, so refrain from hot showers and steam bath for 24 hours post waxing.

Get on a regular waxing schedule and stop shaving

Create a regular schedule for waxing just as your hair grows quarter of an inch from the surface. Over a period, having a regular schedule reduces hair growth. Also, intermittently waxing will wreak havoc with the texture of the hair.