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Myth: Waxing is a form of permanent hair removal
The effects of wax depilation vary between individuals and are solely dependent on hair growth. People who have extremely sensitive hair germ cells will produce replacement hairs more quickly than others however, this particular form of hair removal can last between 3-8 weeks and is by no means permanent.
Myth: Side effects are temporary
Sure, the redness will die down in the hours following your appointment, but more serious side effects can last much longer. Too-hot wax can burn the skin, leading to blistering and permanent scars. To minimize the risk of permanent damage, leave it to the professionals instead of attempting at-home kits. And if the wax is too hot while you’re there, do speak up.
Myth: Timing doesn’t matter
You’ll be quick to call this false if you’ve ever gotten a wax during your period (ow!). The top two reasons to save waxing for pre- and post-that-time-of-the-month: reduced pain and no messy tampon strings to get in the way. While it is generally safe to get a bikini wax during your period, most women are more sensitive to pain around this time and therefore may want to avoid it. If just the thought of waxing makes you wince, try scheduling your appointment smack dab between periods. Studies report that your pain tolerance peaks during ovulation, which occurs mid-cycle.
Myth: You’re good to go right away
Your just-waxed bikini line creates a tempting smoothness, but stick with foreplay and put the real thing on pause for at least 24 hours after your waxing session. The friction and perspiration that result when you get hot and heavy can make the area more susceptible to infection, she says.
That also means it’s best to fit a gym session in before your appointment instead of after. Waxing removes the hair from the hair follicle, and because the hair follicle is empty and open, it leaves more opportunities for dirt and bacteria to get into it. Leave the workouts and romp sessions for a day or so later, she says.
Myth: Waxing prevents ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs occur when the mouth of the hair follicle becomes blocked. This forces the hair to become trapped and as a result, begins to grow back on itself.
Although increased keratinization can block the mouth of the follicle by producing more cells in the stratum corneum, inadequate aftercare such as dry skin and wearing tight-fitting clothing over the treated area following wax depilation can easily produce ingrown hairs.
Myth: I will suffer an adverse skin reaction to the wax used
It is normal for skin to look slightly pink after wax epilation regardless of the temperature of wax used. Providing you do not suffer from hypersensitive skin, the procedure has been performed correctly and a skin test has been completed prior to treatment, there is no reason why you should suffer an over-reaction to waxing.
Myth: Waxing harms the skin
False! While waxing may cause some minor side effects such as inflammation and the dreaded ‘plucked chicken look’, these will disappear within hours. Waxing does not cause long-term damage to the skin – it even exfoliates and benefits the top layer of skin.
Myth: Hair has to be a certain length
The ideal length for hair to be waxed is between ¼” – ½”. Any shorter than this and the wax will struggle to grip and remove the hair. Waxing hair that is longer than ½” will be more painful and there is a higher chance that hairs will be missed. Remember that you can trim your hair prior to your wax to get it to the ideal length.
Now that you know these waxing myths, you can book your appointment on our website!