Waxing

Popularity of Waxing

Hair removal has grown to epic proportions.  There are several forms of hair removal techniques available, yet waxing remains one of the most popular, safest, and oldest forms of hair removal. Waxing is considered a semi-permanent form of hair removal as it removes hair from the roots. Waxing can last up to a month, and as new growth cycles appear and over time it thins the hair so less grows back. It also exfoliates the skin, leaving a smooth and silky feel.

With the exception of eye lashes and eyelids, nearly every part of the body can be safely waxed.

Types of Waxing 

There are two different types of wax with many variations of those two. Soft wax, also called strip wax, is performed by spreading a thin layer of wax over the skin. It is then removed with paper or muslin strips, quickly pulled against the direction of hair growth. The strip should be pulled as close to parallel to the skin as possible to avoid additional trauma such as bruising, broken capillaries, or lifting of the skin.

Hard wax, or strip-less wax, is performed by applying a thick layer of the wax, allowing it to cool, then removing the wax against the direction of hair growth, parallel to the skin. No strip is used in removing the wax. Hard wax can be a good choice for those with sensitive skin as it encapsulates the hair for removal, not adhering to the skin as much.

For both types of waxing, the area should be clean and disinfected. The wax stick or spatula that applies the wax should never be “double dipped”. Double dipping is when the same stick is used each time it is dipped into the pot of wax.

Contraindications

There are several contraindications for waxing and your licensed professional should go over your health history prior to waxing. Waxing should not be performed if a person has any of the following conditions.

This list includes but is not limited to:

• Prescription blood thinners
• Diabetic Ulcers
• Takes Prescription Steroids
• Sunburned Skin
• Psoriasis, eczema, or other chronic skin diseases
• Rosacea and very sensitive skin
• History of fever blisters or cold sores

Waxing is a cost effective way of removing large areas of hair.  It is long lasting and generally quite safe.

Side Effects

Side effects of waxing include pain, which may be intense, ingrown hairs, red bumps, and minor bleeding. One of the most painful side effects which can leave a scar is “skin lifting”. Skin lifting occurs when the top layer of skin is torn away during the removal phase. It leaves the skin quite red, painful and irritated. Generally a scab develops which may last for a week to 10 days and must be treated as a wound to avoid a scar. Skin lifting can cause the skin in that area to remain more sensitive and more likely to lift again in the future.

Post Waxing Protocol

Following a waxing treatment, wash the waxed area of the skin with our gentle Cleanser. Use Moisturizing Mist followed by our most advanced product, Recovery, abundant in our patented S²RM® technology. These products calm the skin, as it returns to its normal color quickly. 

If the skin has been injured in the past in an area to be waxed, apply a bit of Recovery before waxing.  This practice will reduce the chance of skin lifting or scabbing post waxing. For skin that appears lifted post waxing, use Recovery serum immediately and continue to use up to 4 times daily as the skin returns to normal. 

If additional hydration is needed, apply our Intensive Moisturizer or Barrier Renewal Cream after Recovery.

Reviews:

“I am a licensed Esthetician and see many clients for brow and face waxing.  Even with the best wax and technique, there is always an opportunity to “lift” the skin.  While trying a new wax on myself, I lifted my own skin badly!  It was bright red, shiny and painful.  I immediately applied Recovery to the affected area, twice the first evening and four times for the next 3 days.  I followed my application of Recovery with the Intensive Moisturizer to keep the damaged area hydrated.  By the second day, much of the redness had disappeared as had the pain.  By the third day, it was clear that it wasn’t going to scab.  The redness was gone and I the only remaining evidence was a rough feel to the area.  By the end of day four, my eyebrow area felt completely normal!  This could have been a disaster with heavy scabbing and 10 days of healing.  After four days my skin looks and feels perfectly normal.  Now I use Recovery after waxing anywhere on the face!  I love knowing that I’m helping my clients have the best service and result possible.” ~ PV

Product: NeoGenesis Recovery