This method removes the hair from the roots with help from a sticky wax that’s applied to the skin and then ripped away along with all of your unwanted hair. You can get pretty much any part of your body waxed, and results can typically last four or five weeks.
One main downside is that waxing can hurt, and the skin can become irritated if its done incorrectly, Dr. Jaliman says. You can also get burned if the wax is too hot. It’s also important to keep in mind that waxing generally isn’t the best option for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin, she adds. The hair removal method can be pretty irritating, she says, which could be super uncomfortable for people who are already sensitive. And since waxing pulls hair from the root, there’s an increased risk of ingrown hairs, which is often already a concern for people who struggle with acne.
To set your skin up for success, Stacie Harding, senior corporate field trainer at European Wax Center, says to pay attention to what you’re putting on your skin before waxing. Skincare ingredients commonly used to address acne or aging, such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, astringents and vitamin C, can feel irritating or cause dryness, especially on people who already have sensitive skin. Waxing your hair after using those kinds of ingredients will likely exacerbate irritation, and it can even lead to itching or peeling of the skin, Dr. Jaliman says. To be on the safe side, Harding recommends avoiding such ingredients for at least a week prior to a waxing appointment.
It’s also best to avoid tanning before waxing, Harding says. If you wax your hair soon after getting a tan, you’re going to rip it off, Dr. Jaliman says, causing patchy, blotchy-looking skin. But don’t forget to care for your skin after a wax as well, Harding says. Dr. Jaliman recommends that people avoid direct sun exposure for at least two days after an appointment, since waxing often leaves the skin irritated and even more sensitive to the sun than it already is.
And if you don’t feel like splurging on an appointment with a professional, you can opt to buy at-home waxing kits instead. But you’re more likely to get more precise results and avoid problems if you visit an expert.
Pros: Lasts weeks at a time.
Cons: Painful; less-than-ideal for acne-prone, sensitive skin; can cause burns or ingrown hairs.
Post Comment