Isn’t it the case every time that after a waxing session you notice visible pimples or bumps on your skin which is just so hard to deal with? With any type of waxing, pimples are prone to appear due to several reasons. Waxing itself doesn’t cause pimples. What does is the bacteria that penetrates your open pore skin post-wax. When you get a wax, some of your skin on the surface gets removed, meaning your pores are left exposed. Anything that touches the area during this time, including soothing agents, can cause pimples. That’s the reason a full prep care is essential before and after waxing.
Although bacteria is the primary cause of tiny or big bumps on your skin, there could be other underlying reasons that causes these little monsters to pop up on your skin. Other reasons include: allergies to the wax itself, skin sensitivity, touching the area, or even getting a mild burn.
Luckily, there are ways to minimize post-wax breakouts after a waxing session.
1. Prep well
It’s always important to prep your skin well before waxing. One way of getting rid of pimples would be by exfoliating. Simply use a wash cloth with warm water and exfoliate dead skin cells. Before starting to wax, ensure your hands and nails are clean by scrubbing them with warm water and anti-bacterial soap. Remember, keeping everything sanitized is key.
2. Wax precautions
When it comes to waxing, do not double dip the applicator into the wax as this causes bacteria to transmit. After dipping the applicator once, it’s recommended to dispose it and use a fresh new stick to avoid any bacteria into the product. You can always highlight this to the saloon or spa to practice this hygiene. Alternatively, you can use a tea tree wax which has anti septic properties which can help to prevent pimples.
Tip: If your skin is sensitive and prone to pimples, it’s advisable to apply a thin layer baby powder onto your skin before waxing. The powder will absorb any moisture and oils from your hair, making it easy to grab the hairs to avoid any contact irritation.
3. Post-wax care
There are many antiseptic toners in the market which you can use to apply after waxing. The toner can kill acne-causing bacteria after hair removal which aids in preventing breakouts. While it’s nice to touch and caress your smooth hair-free skin after waxing and removal of dead skin cells, it’s best to not touch the area as your skin is most susceptible to infection after removing the hair.
Shelby Galvan, an esthetician at one of L.A.’s renowned hair removable saloons, Wax LA, says you should avoid oil based products on your skin after a wax. “It’s best to moisturize with oil-free products that are all natural and don’t contain synthetic oils,” she says, which can cause breakouts on the compromised skin. She also recommends to use skin-soothing ointment like aloe gel or gentle post-wax toners to reduce irritation ad soothe inflamed skin.
Additionally, avoid any activity or exercises that will make you sweat on the day you got waxed. Also, wear loose clothing to prevent skin irritation with the fabric.
