Here are five things to do before you get waxed:
- Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate the area you plan to wax a day or two before your appointment. This helps remove dead skin cells, allowing the wax to grip the hair more effectively. However, avoid over-exfoliating, as this can cause irritation.
- Let the Hair Grow: Ensure that your hair is long enough for the wax to grip properly. Hair should ideally be about 1/4 to 1/2 inch long. Avoid shaving or trimming the hair too short before your appointment, as this might make the waxing process less effective.
- Cleanse the Area: On the day of your appointment, make sure the skin is clean and free of lotions, oils, or other products. This helps the wax adhere better to the hair and reduces the likelihood of irritation.
- Take Pain Relief: If you’re concerned about pain during the waxing process, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen about 30-45 minutes before your appointment. This may help reduce discomfort.
- Avoid Sun Exposure and Certain Products: Avoid sunbathing, tanning beds, and spray tans for at least 24 hours before and after your waxing session, as waxed skin is more sensitive to sunlight. Also, avoid using any retinol-based products or chemical exfoliants a few days before waxing, as these can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation.