There are many advantages to waxing as a means of hair removal. The most popular reason to wax is the length of time needed between applications. Waxing will typically last for two to six weeks. Also, with repeated waxing, the hair will grow in slower and finer. However, waxing is not without its disadvantages, most of which can be overcome with proper techniques and time. Red bumps, discomfort and skin irritations are among the most common complaints people have when using waxing for hair removal. Proper after care of the waxed area is very important to combat any discomfort or redness you may have.
Whether you have gone to a salon to get waxed or did it at home, you will have a bit of irritation afterward. This is natural and typically goes away after a few hours. However, people who have very sensitive skin may need a little help. Even those who tend to have no problems with waxing as hair removal should know how to properly care for the area that was waxed for best results. If the place that was waxed is cared for properly the risks of red bumps, ingrown hairs, skin irritations and discomfort will be greatly reduced.
First, make sure you avoid sunlight for prolonged periods of time for approximately forty eight hours. In addition to sunlight you should avoid any heat sources that can irritate the skin. Saunas, hot tubs and steam rooms should be avoided for the same duration so that you do not cause any undue irritation. For bathing, avoid excessively hot temperatures in your bath or shower for forty eight hours. For twenty four hours after waxing, you should refrain from intense exercise. Sweating a lot may tend to add to the risk of skin bumps.
Waxing as a hair removal process will be a lot more effective if you do not rub the waxed area excessively for a day. This means you should not use any rough products on your skin. Exfoliating creams and lotions should be avoided for the day after waxing. But, you should also avoid tight clothing around the waxed area as this may cause chafing when you move.
A common problem for people who use waxing as hair removal is the tendency to get occasional ingrown hairs. After the first twenty four hours, regular exfoliating will help reduce this risk. Two to three times per week you should exfoliate the skin where your waxing occurred. This will help remove any dead skin and open the pores from clogs which may contribute to ingrown hairs. With proper exfoliating, the hairs will have the room to grow above the surface.
While sexual activity will likely not affect your leg waxing, it may cause irritation to the bikini line. So, avoid having sexual activity for at least ten hours after waxing. The pores are open and vulnerable and can be prone to infection from bacteria. Also, potential for rubbing increases and this may also irritate the skin.
Daily moisturizing will keep the skin soft and supple. Immediately after waxing, use witch hazel on the waxed area. This can be used as a soothing lotion to reduce any pain or irritation. After bathing, though, you should use a product specifically designed for post waxing moisturizing or you can use a product that contains tea tree oil, aloe or lavender. This will keep the skin soft and lessen any skin irritation. It is especially important to remember to moisturize daily, after bathing.
If you have any skin irritations after forty eight hours and after you have taken care of the waxed area properly, you may need to use specialized products. It is possible you have especially sensitive skin. Check with your hair removal technician on the best products to deal with your specific issues.
Keep in mind that the odds of having skin irritations, red bumps, pain and ingrown hairs lessen considerably with time if you use waxing as a hair removal system regularly. The hairs will have a natural tendency to grow back finer and after about a year of waxing you will even see less hair growth. You will have to wax less often and will see fewer skin irritations after waxing.
