A guide to hair removal for first time waxers

Many of us would rather go to the dentist than wax (er, rip) off our body hair. But you’ll find your skin becomes less sensitive to the discomfort in time, and waxing has some great benefits: it’s quick, inexpensive, and you can do it at home, in the buff. If you want. 

Give the wax something to work with 

Skin therapist Jessica Firbank suggests that rookie waxers wait until their hair is at least half a centimetre long before removing it. “First-time waxers can be disappointed in the results of a wax, as they sometimes feel hair left over,” says Firbank. Some unevenness, however, is normal. “The hair will all be in a different growth stage: the longer hairs will be at the ideal stage for waxing, while the shorter hairs won’t be.”

Keep calm and wait 

You may be tempted to wax quite soon after your first wax to get rid of the new hair growth, but it’s best to wait about four weeks. “It does take some time for the hair to reach the same growth stage, but it will eventually happen, allowing for a smooth wax result,” urges Firbank.

Take note

These dos and don’ts make all the difference when it comes to achieving a smooth finish:
•    Exfoliate before the time to remove dry patches and ingrown hairs.
•    Avoid applying deodorant or body creams before a treatment; these prevent the wax from properly sticking to the hair. 
•    Apply a little baby powder to your skin before waxing to absorb any moisture that might affect the adherence of the wax.
•    If you’re using hard wax, test the temperature before use to prevent burns. 
•    When it’s time to remove the wax, pull the strip quickly in the opposite direction of the hair growth.
•    Use baby oil to remove any wax residues.
•    Moisturise your skin well afterwards to soothe any irritation.

When your skin fights back

Firbank also warns first-timers to be aware of a possible histamine reaction: These occur after a wax and appear as little red spots around the hair follicles. “This is a normal reaction, the body is just trying to protect itself after having the hair removed. This can last from a few hours to about a day after the wax,” she explains.

IMAGE CREDIT: shutterstock.com