Without doubt, shaving is the most popular method of hair removal followed by waxing. Though painful and unpleasant, waxing is definitely a better option than shaving since its results lasts longer than shaving.

Conversations about waxing are always focused more on the experience; pain, discomfort and all that. But what about wax aftercare? What about the prep? These are topics we should also be engaging in more often and that’s why in this article we get to look at the do’s and don’ts including precare and aftercare of waxing. We will also include a few tips to ensure your next appointment is a lot less painful as well as help you get the most out of waxing and also keep your skin healthy.

DO’S:

• Keep your intimate areas fresh and clean.
• It is advisable to take an aspirin or paracetamol about 30 minutes before waxing if you have sensitive skin.
• Share with your specialist should you be allergic to any ointments or if you’re taking any prescriptions.
• You can start scrubbing your waxed area gently after the third day of getting waxed.
• Depending on your skin type, wax in intervals of 4 to 6 weeks when the little hairs are at least 2mm long.  
• Do your due diligence and make sure you go to a wax salon that upholds sanitary practices.
• Wax regularly for the best effect. The more often you remove hair from the root, the more likely the hair follicle becomes damaged.
• Embrace your body so you’re confident enough during the wax session.
• Know the difference between waxes; bikini wax, Brazilian wax, underarm wax.
• Tend to fresh bruises and cuts. Let them heal completely before scheduling your appointment.
• Try using cooling creams to keep the area cool and reduce all kinds of redness or irritation after waxing.

DON’TS: THE FIRST 24 HOURS AFTER WAXING (AND BEFORE)

• Avoid saunas or steam baths and anything that might make you sweat at least a few days after getting waxed.  
• Avoid too hot showers.
• Avoid swimming.
• Avoid exfoliating the skin 24 hours to 48 hours before waxing.
• Avoid tight non-breathable clothing.
• Don’t drink coffee and other caffeinated beverages or even alcohol can make your skin much more sentitive.
• Avoid direct sunlight or sunbathing.
• Avoid touching the waxed skin since the empty follicles are easily infected by bacteria and need some time to settle down.
• Avoid oil-based or tanning products. Also do this at least 24 hours to 48 hours before waxing.
• Avoid products which may irritate the skin including lotions, potions, creams or any sort on the day of your wax and even after.
• Avoid perfumed products on the waxed skin.
• Avoid hitting the gym since it entails wearing tight clothing which will cause friction in the area.
• Don’t do excessive activity like yoga, bike rides, hot tubs, immediately after the appointment.

AFTER 24 HOURS:

• Protect your body from direct sunlight by using sun creams.
• Start a gentle scrub routine after 3 days.
• Don’t scratch what’s been waxed. It can cause further irritation to the skin.
• Avoid waxing immediately before your periods since the skin is more sensitive at that time.
• Avoid shaving in between wax appointments. Shaving can initiate ingrown hairs and annoying itching.
• Don’t pick at ingrown hairs. The bacteria found in an infected follicle combined with inflammation weakens pore lining and causes the healing process to be slow.