Waxing
How to prepare for your first wax
Nervous about your first wax? Here is how long your hair should be, what to avoid beforehand and how to look after your skin for the first 48 hours.
First wax or fiftieth, a little preparation makes it quicker, more comfortable and longer lasting. Here is what we suggest.
Before your appointment
- Grow your hair to about 5mm. That is roughly the length of a grain of rice — very short hair is hard for wax to grip.
- Put the razor away. Shaving shortly before your appointment cuts the hair short again.
- Skip oils and heavy lotions on the day. They can get in the way of the wax.
- Avoid sunbeds and strong sun beforehand. If your skin is sunburnt, broken or very irritated, we may need to postpone.
- Tell us about your skincare and medication. Retinoids, some acne treatments and some medicines can affect how your skin reacts.
Please do not stop any prescribed treatment without advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Will it hurt?
Waxing can be uncomfortable. How much depends on the area, how sensitive you are and whether you have waxed before. Many people find it gets easier with regular appointments — and you can always ask for a moment.
Aftercare: the first 24 to 48 hours
- Avoid very hot baths, saunas, steam rooms and hard gym sessions.
- Keep the area out of strong sun and away from sunbeds.
- Wear loose clothes after a leg wax.
- Do not scratch or pick, even if it feels itchy.
Once your skin has settled, gentle exfoliation can help keep it smooth. Your beautician may give you more specific advice for your treatment.
