Sunday, December 21, 2008

Questions & Answers about Body Waxing

By Charlotte Field

Estheticians agree that personal waxing is fast becoming the most sought-after method of any hair removal system. And why not? Other hair removal systems can be expensive, ineffective, and complicated with possible dangerous side effects. If you have not experienced personal body waxing, and think you may want to give it a try, you'll have a few questions to ask before you embark on a commitment like this. The worst part of beginning a waxing routine is not knowing what to expect. I have put together a brief question and answer forum with the most commonly asked questions listed below. The answers apply to all parts of the body, although some may be a bit more sensitive than others.

Q. Do I have to let my hair grow out a little so the body wax can work?

For the best results, we normally like about a 2 to 3 weeks of hair growth or approximately 1/4". I know this may be uncomfortable, but the waxing process depends on enough hair to attach to in order to see good results.

Q. Do I need to do anything in order to get ready for my first body waxing?

There are a few details to keep in mind when you come in for your body waxing. You'll need to stay out of the sun. That means no sunbathing at all, for 48 hours before your appointment. Using an exfoliator about 2 or 3 days before your waxing appointment, gently scrub, do not scrub too hard, the areas to be waxed. Do not exfoliate again before your appointment. On the day of your appointment, just cleanse your body as you normally would, being sure to rinse well. Do not apply any deodorants, lotions, oils, powders, or perfumes, as they will irritate the area upon waxing.

Q. How much discomfort or pain will the actual waxing procedure cause me?

Honestly, the actual waxing process may cause a bit of discomfort or may sting a bit. People all have levels of pain that they can handle. Keep in mind that the first waxing will be the most uncomfortable as there is more hair to remove. Each time you visit your esthetician for the next waxing in your schedule, you will experience less discomfort. It's hard to judge how much pain or discomfort is involved, but there wouldn't be so many women choosing this method of hair removal if it was unbearable. One thing to know is that your skin is most sensitive during your period, so avoid scheduling a waxing during your period, or, for that matter, any time your skin is under any stress.

Q. If I'm having a bikini wax, can I leave my panties on?

If you are not comfortable removing your underwear, you certainly may leave them on. Your esthetician is a professional and should make sure you are comfortable at all times and that you understand the procedure. Discuss your unease, if any, before your waxing procedure begins. For a regular bikini wax you will be provided with disposable underwear to wear during the service which makes it easier for the esthetician. Your esthetician should also discuss with you where you would like your bikini line to fall. Of course, if at any time you do not feel at ease with your esthetician, be sure to discuss your unease. However, if the unease continues you will want to find an esthetician that makes you feel more comfortable with your waxing experience.

Q. What about post-waxing skin care?

Treat your skin to a little rest and relaxation for about 48 hours after the waxing. As before the waxing, avoid the sun for at least 24 hours, and definitely stay our of any tanning bed for 48 hours or more. Just like before waxing, stay away from any lotions, powders, perfumes, and especially any product that contains scents and/or alcohol. They both will set up a real burning sting on your delicate skin.

Q. Once I get into a routine, how long can I go between waxings without seeing hair?

Depending on how long you've been maintaining a waxing routine and how fast your hair normally grows, you could be relatively hairless for anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. The longer you've been waxing at regularly scheduled visits, the longer your hair will take to reappear. However, during the first 3 sessions, most people experience rather unnerving hair growth that was not expected. Hair actually grows in cycles; so the hair you see today is removed but there is hair under the surface that is waiting until tomorrow or the day after to make an appearance. After about the 3rd waxing, you'll notice that we've caught up with your scattered hair growing intervals, and now all the hair has had a chance to be removed at least once. Now each waxing should result in fewer hairs, and longer times between waxing appointments.

If you haven't decided yet whether you should try waxing, you may want to ask yourself a few questions. When's the last time you threw on a skirt or pair of shorts without worrying about the last time you shaved? Are you constantly sneaking a peek at your bikini bottoms trying to see if there's anything peeking back at you? You may consider waxing as a way to finally relax and quit worrying and wondering whether or not anyone will notice you haven't shaved. Getting rid of that razor, and razor burns, and cuts, is reason enough to call your esthetician and discuss the possibilities of waxing. - 16650

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