Thursday, December 18, 2008

Should I Consider Body Waxing For My Hair Removal Needs?

By Charlotte Field

Body waxing has become one of the most requested services at salons across the country. Why? Compared to other hair removal methods, waxing is more affordable and very safe. If you have never experience waxing before, you are going to have some questions about what to expect. The following is a sample of questions most often asked before a schedule of body waxing is begun. The information applies whether you're planning to have your bikini, your back, face, or legs waxed.

Q. What length does the hair on my body have to be to get a successful wax?

If you want good results, you'll want to stop shaving for about 2 or 3 weeks, or until your hair grows to about 1/4". This may be a bit irritating, just ignoring your hair growth, but the process works a lot better if the wax has something to hold on to. A little bit of discomfort while letting your hair grow will pay off with better results.

Q. Is there anything I need to know to prepare my skin for waxing?

You must have no sun exposure for the 48 hours prior to waxing. About 2 or 3 days before you come in for the waxing, lightly exfoliate the area to be waxed, using any exfoliator that you would typically use on your body. Don't over-scrub, just as you would gently exfoliate your face. On the day of your waxing, be sure you thoroughly cleanse the area being waxed, but do not exfoliate, and do not apply any oils, lotions, powders, perfumes, etc.

Q. Will the waxing process be painful?

Well, we have to be honest here. Everyone has a different tolerance for pain, but the first time will hurt more than any other time. As you wax more regularly, you are removing less hair each time, and less hair means less discomfort. If pain or discomfort is a real concern for you, be sure to have a conversation with your esthetician before your waxing begins so that you can bring your concerns out in the open and receive some support. Please keep in mind that women should avoid waxing during their periods - the skin is most sensitive during this time. Avoid waxing any time your skin is under stress of any kind.

Q. Will I have to take my panties off when I get a bikini wax?

If you are not comfortable removing your underwear, you certainly may leave them on. Your esthetician is a professional and should make sure you are comfortable at all times and that you understand the procedure. Discuss your unease, if any, before your waxing procedure begins. For a regular bikini wax you will be provided with disposable underwear to wear during the service which makes it easier for the esthetician. Your esthetician should also discuss with you where you would like your bikini line to fall. Of course, if at any time you do not feel at ease with your esthetician, be sure to discuss your unease. However, if the unease continues you will want to find an esthetician that makes you feel more comfortable with your waxing experience.

Q. Is there anything special I need to do to take care of my skin after waxing?

Treat your skin to a little rest and relaxation for about 48 hours after the waxing. As before the waxing, avoid the sun for at least 24 hours, and definitely stay our of any tanning bed for 48 hours or more. Just like before waxing, stay away from any lotions, powders, perfumes, and especially any product that contains scents and/or alcohol. They both will set up a real burning sting on your delicate skin.

Q. How long will I be able to go between waxings before I see hair growing in again?

Depending on how long you've been maintaining a waxing routine and how fast your hair normally grows, you could be relatively hairless for anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. The longer you've been waxing at regularly scheduled visits, the longer your hair will take to reappear. However, during the first 3 sessions, most people experience rather unnerving hair growth that was not expected. Hair actually grows in cycles; so the hair you see today is removed but there is hair under the surface that is waiting until tomorrow or the day after to make an appearance. After about the 3rd waxing, you'll notice that we've caught up with your scattered hair growing intervals, and now all the hair has had a chance to be removed at least once. Now each waxing should result in fewer hairs, and longer times between waxing appointments.

If you haven't decided yet whether you should try waxing, you may want to ask yourself a few questions. When's the last time you threw on a skirt or pair of shorts without worrying about the last time you shaved? Are you constantly sneaking a peek at your bikini bottoms trying to see if there's anything peeking back at you? You may consider waxing as a way to finally relax and quit worrying and wondering whether or not anyone will notice you haven't shaved. Getting rid of that razor, and razor burns, and cuts, is reason enough to call your esthetician and discuss the possibilities of waxing. - 15438

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