How to Prepare Before Waxing
A little preparation before your waxing appointment makes the treatment more comfortable and helps you get better results.
Hair length matters. Hair should be at least half a centimetre long for the wax to grip effectively. If hair is too short, the wax may not remove it cleanly. If you have been shaving, allow two to three weeks of growth.
Exfoliate lightly. Gentle exfoliation two days before your appointment removes dead skin cells and helps prevent ingrown hairs. Avoid exfoliating on the day itself.
Keep skin clean and dry. On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean skin free from moisturiser, oil or lotion. These can create a barrier that affects how the wax adheres.
Avoid sun exposure beforehand. Freshly tanned or sunburnt skin is more sensitive and can react more intensely to waxing. Give sunburnt skin time to heal before booking.
What to Avoid Before Your Appointment
- Avoid caffeine or stimulants on the day, as these can increase skin sensitivity
- Do not use numbing creams unless specifically recommended by the clinic
- Avoid retinol, acids or exfoliants on the treatment area for at least 48 hours beforehand
- Do not wax over broken skin, rashes, sunburn or areas with active skin conditions
What to Expect After Waxing
Some redness and mild sensitivity are completely normal after waxing, particularly in sensitive areas. This usually settles within a few hours.
You may notice small red bumps around the follicles. These are a natural response and typically resolve within 24 hours.
Aftercare Tips
- Avoid hot baths, saunas, steam rooms and very hot showers for 24 to 48 hours
- Keep the area cool and clean
- Do not apply heavy moisturisers, oils or scented products on the day of treatment
- Avoid tight clothing on treated areas for the rest of the day
- Stay out of direct sunlight or apply SPF if the treated area will be exposed
- Begin gentle exfoliation two to three days after treatment to help prevent ingrown hairs
When Not to Wax
Do not wax if you:
- Have active skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis in the treatment area
- Have had recent laser treatments or chemical peels on the area
- Are using certain acne medications such as Roaccutane
- Have broken or irritated skin in the treatment area
How Often to Book
For most body areas, waxing every four to six weeks works well for maintaining smooth skin. The more consistently you wax, the finer regrowth tends to become over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does waxing hurt? Some discomfort is natural, especially on your first appointment. Most clients find it very manageable. Sensitivity decreases with regular appointments.
Can I wax before a holiday? Yes, but allow at least 48 hours between waxing and sun or sea exposure. Freshly waxed skin can be more sensitive to heat and UV.
What is the difference between waxing and laser hair removal? Waxing removes hair immediately and needs to be repeated regularly. Laser hair removal reduces regrowth over a course of sessions and is a longer-term investment. Both are available at the clinic.
