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Writer's pictureDiana Richardson

32. Therapist Thursday - Conversations with a Skin Therapist: Waxing FAQs

Updated: Mar 21

During lockdown, I have had several messages about home waxing mishaps... and over the years the same frequently asked questions about waxing arise, so I thought I'd share some of them with you.  Here are the top ten Q & A's:

1. How long does my hair have to be?

About 1/4 inch, but the longer the better for smoother and longer lasting results.


2. Can I have a wax if I'm pregnant?

Yes, of course.  It can be more sensitive with all the extra hormones in your system, but it is great for longer lasting results and we do many clients just before their natural and cesarean due dates.


3. Can I tan after waxing?

No tanning- natural or sunless for at least 24 hours after your wax.  In the natural sunlight it can over sensitise and you can burn more easily, and sunless tanning can settle in the open pores to leave you with the 'plucked chicken' affect for much longer than appreciated!


4. Will waxing make my hair grow back faster or thicker?

No, definitely not.  Waxing removes the hair from the root, which weakens the root and in time will damage the follicle so hair will be reluctant to grow. The hair will grow back softer and lighter in colour.


5. How long does the waxing last?

Waxing usually lasts 4-6 weeks, but the more you wax the longer you can go between appointments. Some areas grow quicker or are more obvious like eyebrows and underarms, so to begin with some clients visit every 2-3 weeks until the growth cycle slows down. If you shave between treatments each treatment is like starting from the beginning again.


6. What is a Brazilian wax?

A Brazilian bikini wax removes everything except a thin strip, often referred to as a landing strip.


7. What is a Hollywood wax?

A Hollywood is all of the hair removed in the bikini and bum area.


8. Does waxing hurt?

Your first time maybe a bit uncomfortable because the entire hair follicle is removed from its well established roots. With regular waxing appointments the hair becomes thinner and weaker which makes removal easier and less painful. 

9. How long will the area stay red for?  Typically, skin can stay red or have the 'plucked chicken' affect for up to 24 hours, but some areas will return to normal after a few minutes and others can last a couple of days.  It depends on the individual client, area waxed, frequency of waxing and skin sensitivity.  Most areas should calm down after a couple of hours.  By reapplying a soothing afterwax as part of a home-care regime it will help to further calm and soothe the skin.


10. What is the difference between hot and warm wax?

The difference lies in the curing process. Hot wax hardens on the skin while warm wax remains soft. Warm wax is removed with a cloth or paper strip, and hot wax is removed with a 'pick and flick' method.  Warm wax can be used all over the body, but hot wax is better suited for areas with thick, course hair like eyebrows, bikinis and underarms.

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