I hate to be the one to tell you this, but waxing your body is not just enough to get smooth and flawless skin. After you’re done waxing, your skin stays highly sensitive for 24 to 36 hours. During this time, you should take extra care of your skin to preserve the results of your wax. If you don’t follow a proper post-waxing routine, you may face annoying side effects like rashes, redness and even ingrowth. So if you’re looking to avoid all the mess, here’s what you need to do after getting waxed:
1. Use A Cold Compress
As much as I love the feel of soft (and hairless, LOL) skin, I hate the irritation that comes with waxing. If you want to soothe this, use a cold compress. To make your own cold compress, you can take a small towel, wet it with water and keep it in a plastic bag. Place this plastic bag in the freezer for 10-15 minutes, and there you have it, your very own cold compress. Apply this to the areas on your skin where you’re experiencing inflammation or redness.
2. Don’t Pick At Ingrowns
It can be super tempting to pick at those little red bumps on your skin after waxing, but you have to fight the urge to do this. Since your skin is extremely sensitive after waxing, poking and prodding your ingrown hair can cause more redness. That’s why wait for a couple of days and visit an aesthetician to get them treated professionally.
3. Use Fragrance-Free Skincare
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again, fragrances belong in your perfume bottle, not your skincare products. Products with fragrances can irritate your skin, and if you use them long-term, then you can develop fragrance intolerance/allergies. That’s why you should stay away from them in general and especially after waxing since your skin is already so sensitive.
4. Skip The Gym
Usually, gym-wear tends to cling to your skin and working out can cause friction with your outfit and skin. This will further irritate your skin and make things worse. So skip the gym (no need to look for more excuses now, amirite?) for one day and preferably wear comfortable and loose clothing so that your skin can breathe.
5. Apply Cold Aloe Vera Gel
Is there anything aloe vera can’t cure? Aloe vera hydrates and soothes your skin that’s why it’s perfect to use after getting a wax. What I like to do is store a tube of aloe vera gel in the fridge so that it gets cold and then I use it right after I get waxed. Trust me; it helps immensely! You can thank me later.
6. Don’t Exfoliate
I usually regularly exfoliate, approximately 2-3 times a week. However, I don’t exfoliate for three days after getting waxed since my skin is extra sensitive then. Exfoliating right after waxing will cause micro-abrasions, hence don’t exfoliate for a few days.
7. Stay Out Of The Sun
Waxing strips the outer protective layer of the skin that’s why your skin will be more prone to sun damage. So don’t forget to wear your sunscreen and stay out of the sun.
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