Waxing is a hugely popular method of hair removal and has become a treatment that the majority of beauty parlors now offer to their clientele.
It’s cheaper than threading or laser treatments, yet the results last far longer than you would be able to achieve through shaving.
However, there is one downside to waxing (aside from the obvious pain of it), and this is aftercare.
Whether you’re removing the hair on your legs or around your bikini line, waxing can sometimes leave behind some soreness and irritation which can cause discomfort.
Bonus: It can help to know what to do before waxing as well.
This ranges from being so mild it’s barely noticeable to being quite sore or uncomfortable, and you can reduce the effects of waxing by having it done more frequently and by making sure you remember to exfoliate between appointments so that the skin stays fresh.
Different beauticians will give you different advice regarding your waxing aftercare, but there are a few simple things you can do to relieve any pain or discomfort you’re experiencing.
We’ve put together a list of some tips and tricks that can help you recover after a wax appointment so you can skip straight to enjoying your newly smooth, hairless skin!
So, without further ado, let’s get into it.
How Do You Soothe a Brazillian Wax?
So, you’re thinking about braving a Brazillian wax? Props to you. This is a particularly painful area in terms of wax treatment, so no wonder you want to find out how to soothe the area!
Luckily for you, there are several ways to do this. Wearing loose-fitting clothing to and from your appointment is a good place to start, as this minimizes friction near the sensitive area.
Showing immediately after a wax appointment can be incredibly soothing, but only if you keep the water at a cool temperature. Warmer water and hot baths should be avoided.
Seeing as your skin will be especially sensitive, it’s also worth skipping your usual spritz of perfume and any lotions or creams you would otherwise typically use on your skin to avoid any further irritation. After 24 to 48 hours, you can resume your usual skincare routine.
It’s recommended that you don’t undertake too much strenuous activity too soon after a wax appointment, as the perspiration your body releases can irritate and sting your skin. And yes, unfortunately, that does also mean you should try to refrain from sex for at least 24 hours.
Engaging in sexual activity is particularly advised against after a Brazilian wax as the skin will be extremely sensitive in this area which can be painful or uncomfortable.
Another thing you should avoid is if you notice the appearance of red bumps or spots around the recently waxed area is picking at them. This can cause a breakage in the skin which can introduce bacteria beneath the surface of your skin and open you up to the risk of infection.
What Do You Put on Skin After Waxing?
To reduce the appearance of red bumps and spots around the area that’s just been waxed, it can also be a good idea to apply a cold compress to the skin as a way to soothe it.
This type of inflammation is common and is usually nothing to worry about unless you’re in extreme pain. It’s merely the result of the hair being aggressively ripped from the follicle at its base.
All you need to do is run a cloth under cold water and apply it to the area for 20 minutes. Alternatively, you could use an ice pack, but make sure to wrap it up in a cloth or dish towel.
On the other hand, a warm compress can be a great way to draw out any ingrown hairs. Even using something as simple as a washcloth dipped in warm water and holding it against the affected area for around five minutes can be effective and help prevent future problems.
Another way of soothing your skin after a wax is to apply some type of solution or cream to reduce inflammation. However, some people have skin that is too sensitive for heavy creams and gels that are geared towards soothing the after-effects of waxing.
In these cases, applying a cream or gel can actually worsen the area and cause it to become even more inflamed due to its current level of sensitivity post-wax. To help with this, avoid using perfumed creams or gels that contain ingredients your skin is already sensitive to.
You can find over-the-counter medicated creams like cortisone in most pharmacies and stores which can also be highly effective at reducing inflammation around the affected area, but if you’re concerned about having a reaction, you should speak to your doctor first.
If you’d prefer to create your own type of soothing solution, there are plenty of home remedies you can also try. This includes ingredients that are easily located around the home, such as apple cider vinegar or a blend of coconut oil and tea tree essential oils.
Self-made sugar scrubs are a popular way to soothe the skin, or aloe vera and witch hazel can be used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Simply soak a cotton pad or a clean cloth in whatever you’re using and apply it to the area for a short amount of time.
Bits to remember
We hope that if you’ve already got your next wax appointment booked you’re that feeling more prepared and ready to handle the aftercare requirements of this type of treatment.
Don’t let what we’ve written here put you off waxing entirely – looking after your skin after a wax is much simpler than it might sound. Plus, it’s worth it to have smoother, well-cared-for skin without the additional risk of red bumps, irritation, itching, or even possible infection.
