Waxing gives our skin the smooth, hair-free feeling we desire; on the other hand, however, waxing may lead to ingrown hairs, which plague so many. In this article, we’ll cover the topic of ingrown hairs after waxing, answering questions such as “Does waxing prevent ingrown hairs?” and “Does waxing cause more ingrown hairs than shaving?”. Additionally, we will share some tried-and-tested methods for keeping skin free from ingrown hairs.
The Ingrown Hair Dilemma
When hair grows inward instead of outward, it creates ingrown hairs, commonly referred to as razor bumps, which can lead to irritation, inflammation, and infection. While ingrown hairs are most frequently reported after waxing sessions, they can occur after any form of hair removal, such as shaving. Is this true?
Ingrown hairs are an inevitability after any method of hair removal; their frequency will differ according to the individual and depends on which method was chosen. While waxing can sometimes increase their chances, other techniques like shaving may have the same effects. Here are a few factors you should keep in mind before opting for waxing as opposed to shaving:
- Hair Growth Cycles: Your susceptibility to ingrown hairs could depend on their direction, coarseness, and skin type; there may even be individuals whose genetic predisposition makes their hair curlier when removed than any other method can do.
- Aftercare and Hygiene: Proper aftercare and hygiene can help protect you from developing ingrown hairs after waxing, increasing the risk of ingrown if you fail to exfoliate, moisturize, and avoid wearing tight clothing for at least 24 hours after waxing.
- Experience and Technique: Waxing at home requires skill and experience for maximum effectiveness; an experienced esthetician would know how to wax with minimal irritation to the skin, thereby decreasing ingrown hairs.
Waxing may cause more ingrown hairs for some people than for others, but that shouldn’t be considered an inherent property of waxing. With proper skin care practices in place, waxing may reap all its rewards without ever leading to ingrown hairs.
Myth or Fact: Does Waxing Cause More Ingrown Hairs Than Shaving?
Let’s disprove a popular belief: Waxing doesn’t automatically result in more ingrown hairs than shaving; in fact, waxing might be preferable for some individuals due to certain advantages it provides compared to shaving. Here’s why:
- Longer-Lasting Results: Waxing works to remove hair at its source, meaning the duration between waxing sessions and their return can vary considerably compared to shaving, helping reduce ingrown hairs!
- Softer Regrowth: After waxing, hair tends to regrow softer and finer, meaning there is less chance of it curling back into the skin and curling into itself. This reduces risk.
Note, though, that ingrown hairs can still occur after waxing; especially if your body is predisposed or you neglect proper aftercare measures. So how can we avoid ingrown hairs post-waxing?
- Exfoliate Regularly: Exfoliation is one of the best ways to prevent ingrown hairs after waxing, so use mild exfoliating products or loofah to lightly scrub over waxed areas with exfoliators at least every other week for best results and to help remove dead skin cells to stop trapped hair follicles accumulating underneath your surface. It will prevent itching caused by trapped ingrown!
- Apply Moisturizer Daily: To keep skin properly hydrated and reduce ingrown hairs, daily moisturizing with fragrance-free and noncomedogenic moisturizer is vitally important. Applying an appropriate lotion in the waxed area daily will promote overall skin health while decreasing the chances of ingrown hairs forming.
- Avoid Tight Clothing: Tight clothing may irritate freshly waxed skin, leading to further discomfort or pushing hair back into its follicles if worn directly after your waxing session. Therefore, choose loose-fitting clothes instead to reduce this risk and ensure optimal outcomes from waxing sessions.
- Let Your Hands Off: Resist any urges to pick, scratch, or dig at ingrown hairs as this could lead to infection and scarring. Instead, apply a warm compress over the affected area so the hairs come to the surface naturally.
- Explore Topical Solutions: There are various OTC creams and serums designed to prevent and treat ingrown hairs, like those containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid – this will exfoliate the skin while clearing hair follicles of debris and keep hairs from returning to their follicles.
Does Waxing Prevent Ingrown Hairs?
Waxing cannot guarantee you will never experience ingrown hairs, but it can help serve as part of an ingrown hairs prevention routine. Waxing works by extracting hair at its source resulting in finer regrowth; also it offers longer-lasting results than shaving which reduces the frequency of removal thus decreasing the risk of ingrown hairs.
What You Can’t Do to Prevent Ingrown Hairs
While there are several effective measures you can take to prevent ingrown hairs after waxing, there are also some things you shouldn’t do:
- Don’t Over-Wax: Waxing too frequently can irritate the skin and increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Follow the recommended time frame for waxing sessions, typically every 3-6 weeks, depending on your hair growth.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: After waxing, your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid direct sun exposure and use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Skip Tight Underwear: Just like tight clothing, tight underwear can rub against the waxed area and increase the likelihood of ingrown hairs. Opt for breathable, loose-fitting undergarments.
- Don’t Ignore Signs of Infection: If you notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious skin issues.
Professional Waxing Tips
For those who prefer professional waxing services at salons, here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth experience:
- Choose a Trusted Esthetician: Finding a skilled and experienced esthetician is crucial. A professional who knows their craft is less likely to cause skin trauma during waxing, reducing the chances of ingrown hairs.
- Communicate Your Concerns: Don’t hesitate to communicate any concerns or questions you may have with your esthetician. They can provide personalized advice and tailor their technique to your skin’s needs.
- Avoid Waxing During Your Period: While it’s not a strict rule, some people find that waxing during their menstrual cycle makes the experience more uncomfortable due to heightened sensitivity. Consider scheduling your waxing appointments accordingly.
The Role of Genetics
Your family history could play a factor in whether or not you develop ingrown hairs, as some people’s coarse or curly locks are more prone to ingrown than average patients. If this applies to you, take extra steps when caring for aftercare than is typically required of patients in similar situations.
Patience and Consistency
Waxing requires patience and consistency if it’s to prevent ingrown hairs from appearing. Even with proper precautions in place, ingrown hairs may still occur on occasion, though this is a common occurrence that can be reduced with time and effort.
Waxing is an effective and trustworthy method for eliminating unwanted hair. Enjoy its benefits without constantly worrying about ingrown hairs by following an effective aftercare routine, choosing an experienced esthetician, and understanding your genetic predispositions. Maintaining healthy, glowing skin after waxing requires consistency in skincare regimens as well as patience. Give waxing a try now, and you’ll love how your skin looks and feels afterward!