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[Bath &amp; Body](/beauty/bath-body)

 /  01 July 2022  

#  5 Dos &amp; Don’ts Before You Get A Wax  


Waxing is one of the quickest and most efficient ways to get rid of unwanted body hair. For first timers, or those simply looking to maximise results, here are some pre- and post-appointment dos and don’ts – courtesy of three trusted experts…  


BySapna Rao

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  Image: PEXELS/DARIA LIUDNAY 

 

 

 

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### **DO start by exfoliating…**

“Exfoliating one to two days before your appointment will get rid of any dry skin and prepare a smooth canvas ready for waxing. I always recommend the [Clarins Exfoliating Smoothing Body Scrub](https://selfridges.prf.hn/click/camref:1100loTp9/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.selfridges.com%2FGB%2Fen%2Fcat%2Fclarins-smoothing-body-scrub-200ml_352-73043206-015801002%2F), which contains gentle and natural bamboo powders to exfoliate the skin. Afterwards, it’s best to exfoliate three days after a treatment and in between appointments to prevent ingrown hairs and keep the skin feeling silky smooth.” *– Marie Schmid, Head of Training &amp; Treatment Development, Clarins UK*

“Exfoliating really does make all the difference – as long as it’s done correctly. Don’t go overboard with grainy scrubs – they cause micro-abrasions and can irritate the skin. Instead, use a chemical exfoliant, specifically one containing salicylic or lactic acid. These will unclog pores, offer antibacterial benefits, improve the skin’s texture and maintain hydration. Post wax, we always recommend waiting at least 24 hours before you start exfoliating gently. For both pre- and post-wax exfoliation, try our Treatment solution, which helps skin heal and stay smoother for longer.” *– Frankie &amp; Sofia Farnesi, owners of* [*Naked Hare*](https://www.treatwell.co.uk/place/naked-hare-group-ltd/?utm_medium=&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=&utm_content=&utm_term=&gclid=Cj0KCQjwzLCVBhD3ARIsAPKYTcSS_etHTJFrsjGaIqSdC28_bPWjmDbNZWxGBa76MAg95Ug3IZTeCW8aAtBeEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds)

### **DON’T aggravate the area…**

“Both before and after waxing, it’s important to avoid too much exposure to the sun or heat. This includes hot baths, showers, saunas and steam rooms for at least 24 hours either side of a wax. Avoid sunbeds too, as they can increase sensitivity and make the wax more painful. Fragrance and self-tanning products on the waxed areas are best avoided for 72 hours if possible.” *– Marie*

“For facial waxing, we always advise having a break from using retinoids, AHAs or BHAs for at least a week prior to your appointment, as these can weaken the skin and cause abrasions. It’s also advisable to avoid sun exposure and exercise for 24 hours around your wax to ensure the skin isn’t aggravated by excess heat or friction. We also advise clients to wear loose clothing around the area that’s just been waxed for the same reason.” *– Frankie &amp; Sofia*

### **DO keep the area clean…**

“Avoid applying any lotion or oil prior to your wax as this can affect how effectively the wax grips and removes hairs. It may even add more time to your waxing appointment if the area needs cleaning first. We also always recommend showering before your appointment to make sure the skin is clean, but hold off on adding any body lotion or moisturiser afterwards.” *– Frankie &amp; Sofia*

 

 

 

 ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/QI0uKr21OsdUuUrWTiP4kJZTNXE=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F06%2Fthings-know-wax-pexelspng.png?itok=e_GNxbNR)

 

 

 PEXELS/ROCKETMAN TEAM 

 



 

 

 

 

 Exfoliating really does make all the DIFFERENCE – as long as it’s done correctly. Don’t go overboard with grainy scrubs, instead, use a chemical exfoliant, specifically one containing SALICYLIC or LACTIC acid.  
 

 



 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

### **DON’T shave &amp; DO stick to regular appointments…**

“Regular waxing is the only thing that will make hair removal easier over time. While you may be tempted, avoid shaving between appointments, as shaving actually strengthens the hairs, which will make the wax more painful. With regular waxes, however, hair will become weaker and you’ll find it grows less quickly, too.” *– Frankie &amp; Sofia*

“Make sure your hair is long enough before you go book a wax. Ideally, hairs should be at least a quarter of an inch long for waxing. This will ensure successful removal as the hairs can be pulled out fully from the root. With hair any shorter, this won’t be possible and the results won’t be as smooth.*” –Marie*

### **DO take steps to prevent pain…**

“Some areas are more painful than others. Generally, the legs – the shin bones particularly – will feel more pain because of the thinner skin. Pain does differ with each individual, but most women experience higher levels of sensitivity during menstruation, too. If you are waxing around this time of the month, some clients choose to take painkillers to reduce their sensitivity. Painkillers can also help in general, but It’s not a necessity at all. It completely depends on your pain threshold.” *– Frankie &amp; Sofia*

“Often, taking a patch test isn’t necessary – especially If you’re visiting a reputable venue. But if you do suffer from sensitive skin or are aware of any allergies that may potentially affect your skin, you should always inform the practitioner and do a patch test to be on the safe side. You’ll save yourself any avoidable discomfort and/or pain if you do.” *– Frankie &amp; Sofia*

“Not drinking alcohol 24 hours prior to a wax is recommended as alcohol thins the blood, resulting in more sensitivity. Post-wax, reduce any lingering pain by soothing the skin. [The Clarins Calm-Essential Restoring Treatment Oil](https://selfridges.prf.hn/click/camref:1100loTp9/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.selfridges.com%2FGB%2Fen%2Fcat%2Fclarins-calm-essentiel-restoring-treatment-oil-30ml_R03815309%2F) has actually been specifically formulated to instantly soothe discomfort, while nourishing even the most reactive of skin.” *– Marie*

 

 

 

Visit [Clarins.co.uk](https://www.clarins.co.uk/) &amp; [NakedHareGroup.com](https://www.nakedharegroup.com/)

 

 

 



 

 

 

  

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