Rosie Says: Waxing 101

There are some waxing basics that everyone needs to know when planning to go hairless this summer.

1. Check the length of your hair. The best length for waxing is generally 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch. This is about 3 weeks of growth.

2. Exfoliate. Use a loofah, exfoliating cream or washcloth and rub in circular motions. You want to remove any dead skin cells that may clog the hair follicle and cause ingrown hairs. Avoid irritating your skin by rubbing too hard. Don't exfoliate the day you wax. It will only cause more sensitivity and redness.

Avoid waxing when skin is more sensitive. It's best not to wax when your skin has had a lot of sun exposure or when you have used aggressive skin care products (such as AHA or retinoid treatments).

Give your skin about a week after any of these before you wax.

3. Consider a pain reliever. Taking an oral anti-inflammatory about an hour before waxing will not only keep the skin from swelling, but it will also alleviate some of the pain associated with waxing. This is optional and at your discretion. Some salons also sell topical pain relievers that you can spray or rub onto the skin. These take a minimum of 15 minutes to start working. If they are oily at all, you will need to cleanse your skin again before waxing.

4. Stay out of the sun 24 hours before and after your waxing service.

5. Moisturize your skin again after waxing and avoid sun. Freshly waxed skin burns more easily.

Till next time, 

Rosie

Rosie Says: Waxing Basics

Rosie Says: Tips for Summer Waxing

The time is now and with a little planing around your beach and lake trips, you will be fully prepped when it's tim to ull out skin bearing clothes.

The most popular waxing options for women include the underarms, arms, the bikini area and legs, while back waxing is a great option for men. 

Consider hair length. Most suggest the hair be 1/4" long, I find it more helpful to just let it grow! Fight the urge before your first appointment to shave for 3-4 weeks.The one time extended growth period allows hair to grow evenly, which will give you a smoother, longer lasting wax from the start.

Be nice to your skin! Moisturizing and gentle exfoliation bi-weekly helping the follicle release easier promoting a smoother, longer lasting result.

I won't tell you it doesn't hurt, there will be some discomfort.  For relief take an over the counter anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen about an hour before appointment. If you have extra sensitive skin, take a short soad in Aveeno Oatmeal Bath after your appointment. Regular waxing is the best remedy though because hair softens as does sting!

Now have fun in the sun, with SPF protection of course!