“Scrub and Rub” is our mantra for post-waxing aftercare. By this, we mean exfoliate and moisturise regularly to prevent those unsightly ingrown hairs that can mar an otherwise perfectly-preened private part.
After all, what’s the point in investing time and money to find a reputable salon and the best waxing therapist for a perfect Brazilian if you neglect the aftercare at home?
Any respectable waxing salon will guide you through the necessary aftercare procedures, often selling the products they recommend. Unfortunately, customers sometimes dismiss this advice, viewing it as a mere sales pitch intended to get them to spend more money. This could be due to the way the aftercare advice is delivered, indicating a potential training issue for salon managers, compounded by the inherent skepticism of customers.
Customers are, of course, free to purchase their aftercare products from any source they prefer. However, it’s essential to ensure the appropriate lotions and potions are used for the correct areas. For instance, products with antiseptic properties like tea tree oil are recommended to prevent post-wax infections in the hair follicles. Highly-scented or perfumed products, which are common in moisturisers, exfoliators, and bathing products, should be avoided, especially when applied to intimate areas after a Brazilian wax or Hollywood wax.
Here are our top tips for maintaining bump-free skin between waxes:
- Moisturize the waxed area regularly, preferably with a cream containing antiseptic properties like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and witch-hazel, which also help alleviate irritation. Ingrown hairs often result from dry or flaky skin that blocks hair growth. When moisturising intimate areas, ensure you use an appropriate cream or oil that won’t irritate these sensitive regions.
- Exfoliate the waxed area several times a week to remove dead skin cells. For intimate areas, choose a suitable scrub that is not highly-perfumed. The exfoliator should be grainy enough to be effective but not so harsh that it irritates your skin. Over-exfoliation or using an unsuitable scrub can graze the skin and potentially cause ingrown hairs instead of preventing them.
- Use Dead Sea salt as bath salts to help prevent infection, as can antibacterial shower gels. Dead Sea salt baths may sting within the first 24 hours after waxing but can be used several times a week thereafter in the immediate week following your wax.
- Loofahs and exfoliating mitts can be used in the shower, but they must be kept clean and dry and replaced regularly. These are particularly useful for men exfoliating areas like their backs and chests after waxing. For non-intimate areas, dry brushing can provide a beneficial exfoliating effect.
- Applying antiseptic cream to the waxed area for three days after treatment can soothe and protect the skin. Always wash your hands before applying any product.
And remember:
- No fake tans, massages, extreme heat treatments (e.g., very hot baths or showers, saunas, steam rooms), swimming, sunbathing (including sunbeds or other UV light exposure), or tight clothing for 24-48 hours.
- Try to avoid exercise for 24 hours, as sweating can clog hair follicles. Do not scratch or touch the area with unwashed hands.
- Avoid applying deodorant, anything perfumed, or makeup to the waxed area for 24 hours.
Finally, if your skin has not returned to normal after 24 hours, seek advice from your GP in case of an allergic reaction to the wax or a developing infection.
