Waxing is one of the most effective ways to remove unwanted body and facial hair. Unlike shaving, which only removes hair from the surface of the skin, waxing pulls hair out by the root so it grows back slower and finer over time. While professional waxing treatments can be pricey, waxing at home is an easy way to save money and enjoy smooth, stubble-free skin on your own schedule.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn insider tips and techniques to get salon-quality results from waxing in the comfort of your home. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right wax products to mastering proper waxing techniques for sensitive areas like the bikini line and face. You’ll also learn how to avoid common waxing mistakes that can lead to irritation, ingrown hairs, and other issues.
Follow these waxing essentials and you’ll be able to wax like a pro!
Choosing the Right Wax
The first step to perfect at-home waxing is selecting the right wax for the job. There are two main types of wax: soft wax and hard wax. Here’s how to decide which is best for you:
Hard Wax vs. Soft Wax
Hard wax is applied warm, then allowed to cool and harden on the skin before being removed by lifting the hardened wax off. Soft wax is applied warm then removed immediately by pressing a strip of cloth or paper onto the wax and ripping it off.
Hard wax is gentler on the skin and doesn’t require strips, making it a great choice for delicate areas like the bikini line, underarms, and face. It adheres only to the hair not the skin, reducing irritation. Soft wax removes hair more aggressively, so it works better on thicker, coarser hair on legs and arms. The strips pull the skin taut to minimize pain.
Wax for Sensitive Areas
If you’re planning to wax your bikini area or face at home, look for a hard wax formula specially designed for sensitive skin. These contain soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe, chamomile, or tea tree oil. Using a gentle wax minimizes redness and discomfort.
Pre-Made Strips vs. Wax Pots
For beginners, pre-made waxing strips are ideal since they’re ready to use. Just warm between your hands, press onto skin, and rip off. Wax pots require more technique but give you more control over application. Consider starting with strips then graduating to a wax pot once you gain confidence.
Fragrance-Free or Scented
Waxes come unscented or scented with pleasant fragrances like lavender or vanilla. If you have sensitive skin, fragrance-free is safest. But for legs and arms, a subtly scented wax can make the experience more relaxing.
Pre-Wax Preparation
Getting your skin ready for waxing is key to avoiding irritation. Follow these pre-wax steps for the smoothest results:
Exfoliate Before Waxing
Gently exfoliating 24-48 hours before waxing helps remove dead skin cells and brings ingrown hairs to the surface. Just don’t overdo it – heavy scrubbing right before can increase sensitivity. Use a soft loofah or mild scrub.
Test Wax Temperature
If using hard wax, test a small amount on your wrist first to ensure it’s warm but not hot enough to burn delicate skin. Soft wax strips should feel just slightly warm when you rub them between your hands before applying.
Clean and Dry Skin
Wash with a gentle cleanser before waxing to remove dirt, oil and residue. Pat skin completely dry, since moisture can prevent wax from adhering properly.
Trim Long Hair
Hair should be about 1/4-1/2 inch long for ideal waxing results. Use scissors or an electric trimmer to trim any longer hairs to the optimal length.
Avoid Retinol Before Waxing
Stop using retinol or retinoid skincare products like Retin-A about a week before waxing. These ingredients make skin extra-sensitive to irritation.
Do a Patch Test
To check for allergic reaction, do a patch test by applying a small amount of wax to your inner arm and leaving it for 24 hours before waxing larger areas.
Step-by-Step Waxing Techniques
Once you’ve prepped your skin, it’s time to get down to waxing. Here are techniques for waxing key target areas:
Waxing Your Legs
Start with wax suitable for coarse leg hair. Warm the wax in a microwave or wax warmer following product instructions. Test a small dab on your wrist to ensure proper temperature. Spread a thin, even layer of wax in the direction of hair growth – about two inches at a time. Press the strip firmly onto the wax. Keeping the skin taut with one hand, swiftly rip the strip off in the opposite direction of growth.
The Bikini Wax
Carefully spread hard wax made for sensitive areas in the direction of hair growth, avoiding delicate inner labia. Let the wax harden before lifting it off in the opposite direction. Take care not to pull skin. Apply aloe-based soothing gel after.
Waxing Underarms
Raise your arm and apply hard wax to underarm in the direction of growth. Let it harden then lift off, pulling the skin taut. Powder can help wax grip hair. Repeat if needed, applying more powder between passes.
Eyebrow Waxing
Brush brows upward with a spoolie. Apply wax in direction of growth and place a small strip over it. Pull strip off swiftly in opposite direction. Use short strips and be very careful not to peel skin.
Waxing Upper Lip
Spread a thin layer of hard face wax in direction of hair growth. Press a small strip on wax and rip off opposite of growth. Avoid nostril area. Apply light pressure to avoid removing skin.
Wax with Hair Growth
Always apply wax and press strips in the direction of hair growth – then pull off against growth for easiest removal. Pulling in the wrong direction increases risk of breakage and ingrown hairs.
Preventing Problems
While redness and irritation after waxing is normal, injury, infection, and ingrown hairs should be avoided. Here’s how:
Avoid Waxing Injuries
Waxing can remove a thin layer of skin if done improperly, causing injury. Avoid waxing sunburned skin or areas with cuts, rashes or irritation. Don’t wax the same spot excessively. Apply wax lightly, especially on delicate facial areas.
Prevent Ingrown Hairs
Exfoliating regularly before and after waxing helps prevent ingrown hairs. If you do get one, don’t pick – use a gentle exfoliant to coax it out. Tea tree oil helps keep bumps clear. Avoid waxing too soon after last session.
Avoid Infection
Always thoroughly wash and exfoliate skin before waxing to remove bacteria. Never double-dip applicators or reuse wax to prevent contamination. Apply antiseptic like tea tree oil after waxing to keep skin clean.
Soothe Bumps and Irritation
Expect some redness and minor bumps after waxing. Apply aloe vera gel immediately after to soothe and calm skin. For persistent bumps, use a spot treatment containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Avoid picking pimples as they can scar.
Post-Wax Care
Caring for your skin after waxing is crucial for avoiding irritation and ingrown hairs. Here are some key post-wax tips:
Remove Leftover Wax
Use wax remover wipes or baby oil to get rid of any wax residue left behind on your skin after waxing. Removing it prevents clogged pores and follicles.
Use Cooling and Calming Products
Applying an aloe-based gel or hydrocortisone cream helps calm inflammation, redness and sensitivity from waxing. Look for cooling formulas containing soothing ingredients like chamomile.
Avoid Friction and Sweat
Tight clothes and exercise can cause irritation on freshly waxed skin. Wear loose cotton clothing and avoid sweaty activities for 24 hours post-wax. Also skip hot baths or showers, which can be irritating.
Can a Hand Wax Machine Be Used for at-home Waxing?
Yes, a hand wax machine can be used for at-home waxing. With a hand wax machine spa experiences, you can conveniently wax your hands, feet, and even small areas of the body in the comfort of your own home. This device offers a cost-effective alternative to professional spa waxing treatments.
Waxing Dos and Don’ts
Follow these waxing best practices to make the experience as smooth as possible:
Know When to Wax
Wait 4-6 weeks between waxing sessions to allow optimal new hair growth. Hair should be 1/4 to 1/2 inch long for best results. Avoid waxing right before your period when skin is extra-sensitive.
Dress for Success
Wear loose, breathable fabrics like cotton for 24 hours after waxing to prevent irritation and ingrown hairs. Remove wax before dressing to avoid staining clothes.
When to Avoid Waxing
Skip waxing if you’re on retinoids, antibiotics or Accutane, or have irritated skin from scrubbing or sunburn. These conditions make skin too thin and sensitive for waxing.
While waxing at home takes some practice, following these tips will have you hair-free and loving your smooth skin in no time. Prep your skin properly, take care when waxing delicate areas, prevent problems with proper aftercare, and you’ll be a pro waxer before you know it!