The Waxing Revolution

Salons are now able to tailor their waxing services to better suit each client’s requirements.  Modern wax formulations are much kinder to the skin and allow for a less uncomfortable and quicker client experience. 

Waxing removes the hair from the root, along with the surface layer of dead skin, results last on average up to four weeks. There’s no stubbly regrowth as the new hair that grows through has a soft, pointed end, not blunt, like you’d get from a razor which cuts the hair off through the shaft.  With regular waxing, the hair will become finer and eventually stop growing altogether, although this can take a few years.

The area to be treated should always be cleansed first; this will remove any cream or oil from the skin and hair which would prevent the wax gripping the hair.  Immediately after treatment a soothing lotion is applied to calm the skin and minimise any reaction.  Some salons offer the application of a growth inhibiter that may prolong the results by stunting regrowth.  You should avoid, exercise (particularly swimming) and heat treatments such as sauna, jacuzzi, for the first 24 hours after a wax treatment.  If the area is irritated, try a soothing aloe vera gel.

Post waxing, allow three days for the skin to recover and then you should gently exfoliate the area to maintain smooth skin and prevent ingrown hairs, continue exfoliating regularly, 2-3 times a week.   

There are two main types of wax; warm and hot.  Warm waxes are applied using a spatula or a ‘roll on applicator’ and then removed with a paper or muslin strip.  Hot wax is applied with a spatula and allowed to set on the skin, the edge is then flicked up and the wax pulled away from the skin, lifting out the hair, and then disposed of.  Hot wax is the preferred method for intimate areas; the heat opens the pores and reduces traction so that the procedure is more comfortable for the client.

If you have particularly sensitive or delicate skin, you could try an organic wax.  There are also brilliant wax formulas that adhere only to the hair and not the skin, ensuring clean removal of hair with significantly less discomfort, skin sensitivity and redness.

Most salons offer a range of waxing formulations, these are just a few that you might like to try;

Pomegranate – High in anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties

Tea Tree – Naturally antiseptic, great for sensitive skin

Chocolate – High levels of Sulphur and Magnesium which are beneficial to the skin

Soy – rich in moisturising benefits and helps condition the skin

Lavender – has soothing and calming properties, perfect for sensitive and delicate skin