Have you been getting rid of your facial hair with face wax? The “clean face” you get after every wax comes at a cost. There can be several side effects from facial waxing. Today, we find out how it affects your skin and some simple ways to prevent it.
The process of facial waxing
Hot wax is applied on your face where there is facial hair. It then stiffens the unwanted hair. This is followed by pulling the dried wax, removing your hair directly from the follicle.
Advantages of Face wax
The hair gets pulled from the root, giving you a smooth look. Waxing removes a bulk of hair (compared to plucking, shaving etc.) from your skin at once. Other hair removal techniques like tweezing can take a long time and be quite painful. Waxing also removes dead skin cells and any pore-clogging dust or dirt from your skin.
The cost of facial waxing!
While face wax might seem like the ideal choice, it is essential to consider the flip side.
1. It’s a painful process
Waxing can be pretty painful! Pulling the waxing strips to remove the hair from its roots basically plucks all the strands out at once. Some find it less painful, whereas people with sensitive skin find it hard to deal with.
2. Skin rashes
Facial waxing can sometimes lead to skin rashes which may last for 2 -3 days. In case your rashes don’t disappear or become severe, you should visit a dermatologist. Also, it’s time to look for an alternate wax product that suits your skin type. People with sensitive skin are more prone to developing rashes from facial waxing.
3. Bumps
Some experience small bumps after facial waxing when the hair is removed from the root. Using any moisturizing cream or any soothing cream on the skin bumps can restore your skin. Aloe vera is a great cooling agent for this purpose due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Inflammation
Some might experience mild redness and inflammation after a face wax. Try applying some soothing gel on your face immediately after waxing. Use gentle skincare products for a few days to avoid further skin irritation.
5. Skin allergies
Face wax can cause skin allergies in some people. It’s always better to patch test the wax on a small portion of your hand. If you face irritation, then ditch it!
6. Sensitivity
Waxing sunburnt skin or deeply tanned skin is a terrible idea. It leads to further damage.
7. Scars
If waxing isn’t done right, it can rip your skin off, causing a wound. This can leave behind scars if not taken care of properly.
Situations in which you should not use face wax
Do not use a face wax if:
1. You are taking oral tablets to treat severe acne or scarring.
2. You’re on topical prescription treatment (creams) for acne or dark spots.
3. Your skin has active acne or open wounds. This may lead to severe infection.
4. You have warts or moles in that part of the skin.
5. You’re allergic to any ingredient present in the wax.
6. You have recently done any procedure on the skin, including bleaching, laser treatments, etc.
Skincare techniques to prevent side effects of face wax
- Gently exfoliate your face a day or two before waxing. This helps clear out the dirt and pollutants from your pores. It will make the facial waxing process smoother and more efficient.
- Cleanse your face with a gentle face wash before waxing. Make sure your skin dries thoroughly. This will help the wax stick properly onto the skin.
- To reduce pain, you can apply a cold pack to the skin for a few minutes before waxing.
- Be careful while using hot wax; do not burn your skin. Always test the temperature of the wax by applying a small amount to the inside of your wrist.
- When the wax is being applied to your skin, ensure that this is done in the same direction as your hair growth.
- The waxing strip should be placed gently over the wax and pressed for more efficiency. It should then be pulled off in the same direction of hair growth to avoid ingrown hairs or bumps.
- You can wash your face with cool water after waxing and apply a soothing non-comedogenic moisturizer.
The silver lining
Sometimes, even though face wax has disadvantages, you can always give it a try with all the precautions mentioned above. Waxing is one of the most common ways to remove hair as cleanly as possible. Happy waxing!
FAQ’s
1. Can I use any wax on my face?
No! It is vital to use the right waxing products that are meant for your face. Never use anything other than facial wax to remove hair from your face.
2. Can I wax my face by myself?
It’s always better to take professional help for waxing rather than doing it yourself. We don’t recommend that you do it at home.
3. What natural remedy can I apply to my skin after waxing?
Aloe vera gel has a cooling effect and anti-inflammatory properties and therefore is an excellent remedy for raw skin after a wax.
4. How do I get the best face wax experience?
Follow all the measures mentioned above and choose to go to an experienced professional to get your face waxed.
