How to Prepare Skin for Waxing 6 Ways

Waxing is a popular option for keeping your skin smooth and hairless for weeks, but it isn't a spur-of-the-moment decision. Whether you're waxing a smaller area like your eyebrows and upper lip or you’re getting a larger expanse such as your legs, back or chest waxed, your skin needs some prep to minimize your discomfort and help you achieve the best results. So, before you book that waxing appointment, let's learn how to prep skin for waxing to help you get the smoothest results possible.

How To Prep Your Skin For Waxing

Prepping your skin before waxing is what you'll want to do for smooth, lasting results. Follow these essential steps to ensure your skin is perfectly primed for a flawless waxing experience.

Check Yourself

1. No matter where you're waxing, check the skin before you go in for your appointment. Broken skin or inflammation needs to heal before you're ready to wax. If you have moles or beauty marks, point them out to the esthetician so they can be protected during the waxing process.

Let It Grow...But Not Too Long

2. Keep hair long enough for the wax to grip it. When the hair is too short, the wax can't pick it up well enough to remove it; when it's too long, it prevents wax from adhering and causes more pain. Two to three weeks of growth, or about an eighth to a quarter of an inch, is ideal for leg, underarm and bikini hair.

Light Exfoliate Before Waxing

3. If you're wondering whether or not it's you should exfoliate before waxing, the answer is a simple: Yes, but keep it gentle. Exfoliate your skin a day or two before waxing, but skip harsh scrubs the day of your waxing appointment. Exfoliation helps wax grab hair and not skin, but it can also leave skin more sensitive to pain, so lighter is better. A rough washcloth is perfect for gentle exfoliation, but don't scrub too hard.

Moisturize Skin Before Waxing

4. Moisturize well on the days leading up to your appointment. Healthy, well-moisturized skin allows the wax to release more easily. Too much moisturizer could coat the hair and interfere with the wax's grip, so avoid moisturizing on the day of your waxing session.

The Bikini Area

5. Whether you prefer a Brazilian wax, LA wax or regular bikini, keep skin in the bikini area scrupulously clean. Waxing can leave skin vulnerable to infection, and areas of the body that are normally warm and damp are more prone to bacterial growth.

Take A Retin-A Break

6. Certain medications can sensitize skin to waxing. Retin-A creams do amazing things for fine lines, acne and uneven pigmentation, but they also leave skin susceptible to injury during waxing. Discontinue retinol-based products for two weeks before waxing. Accutane users should stop taking their medication for a month before waxing. Before making any changes to your prescription medications, talk to your dermatologist.

Final Thoughts

Waxing is a fantastic way to keep your skin smooth and hair-free for weeks, but proper preparation is key to minimizing discomfort and achieving the best results. Before your appointment, make sure to check your skin for any issues, let your hair grow to the ideal length, lightly exfoliate, and moisturize appropriately. Also, take special care with the bikini area and pause certain skincare products like Retin-A before waxing. At Bella Santé, our expert estheticians ensure that your skin is prepped and cared for, providing a comfortable waxing experience with smooth, long-lasting results.

FAQ

How to Exfoliate Before Waxing?

When prepping skin for waxing, a gentle exfoliation is essential a day or two before your appointment. Use a soft washcloth or a mild scrub to remove dead skin cells, allowing the wax to grip the hair more effectively without irritating your skin.

What to Put on Skin Before Waxing?

During your wax preparation, focus on keeping your skin well-moisturized in the days leading up to your session. On the day of, however, skip the moisturizer to ensure the wax adheres properly for a smooth, effective result.

Does Waxing Make Your Skin Glow?

Yes, waxing can make your skin glow! By removing both hair and dead skin cells, waxing reveals fresh, smooth skin underneath, giving you a radiant, post-wax glow.