With beach season just around the corner, you might be thinking about waxing to achieve a hair-free body before summer. Unlike shaving, waxing can leave skin feeling smooth and soft for many weeks, but only if you do it properly, say dermatologists.
�At-home waxing can be an affordable method for hair removal, but it�s important to take precautions,� said board-certified dermatologist Jessica J. Krant, MD, FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center. �Never wax sunburned or very sensitive skin, and don�t wax if you have taken isotretinoin in the last six months.Also, it may be a good idea to leave Brazilian waxes to the professionals, since the skin in that area is particularly delicate.� |
For the best technique and results, Dr. Krant recommends the following tips:
- Ensure optimal hair length: Before waxing, make sure your hair is about one-fourth to three-fourths of an inch long. If hair is longer, trim it to a shorter length using safety scissors so that waxing will be less messy and painful.
- Avoid retinoid creams before waxing: Avoid using over-the-counter skin care products containing retinol and prescription retinoids two to five days prior to waxing your face to avoid removing skin along with your hair.
- Reduce discomfort: Since waxing can be painful for some people, consider ways to reduce discomfort. Taking over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, or applying cold packs to the skin about 30 minutes before waxing may help.
- Wash and dry the area: Before waxing, gently wash the area you�re about to wax to remove dirt, dead skin cells and skin care products. Afterwards, dry your skin thoroughly. Clean, dry skin allows the wax to adhere properly.
- Warm the wax: Follow the directions on the package, and always test the temperature of the wax by applying a small amount to the inside of your wrist. It should be warm, but not hurt or burn.
- Apply the wax: Apply the wax to a small section of your skin with unwanted hair. For the best results, always spread the wax in the direction of hair growth.
- Apply the cloth strip: Once the wax is applied, place the cloth strip over the wax and press down firmly. Leave the cloth on for two to three seconds.
- Remove the cloth strip: To remove, hold your skin taut with one hand and use your other hand to quickly pull off the cloth in the opposite direction of hair growth. If you�re waxing a tricky spot to reach, such as the underarms, consider asking a friend or relative to help you.
- Soothe your skin: After waxing, soothe your skin by applying cold packs if you have pain, avoiding hot baths and showers, wearing loose clothing and applying moisturizer that won�t clog your pores. Look for moisturizers labeled �oil-free� or �non-comedogenic.�
�If you follow the instructions, at-home waxing is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted body hair," said Dr. Krant. �However, if you experience redness or swelling after waxing that lasts more than two days, see a board-certified dermatologist.�
These tips are demonstrated in �
Hair Removal: How to Wax,� a video posted to the AAD website and
YouTube channel. This video is part of the AAD�s �Video of the Month� series, which offers tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair and nails. A new video in the series posts to the AAD website and YouTube channel each month.
| | | | Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 18,000 physicians worldwide, the AAD is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. |
|
Comments
Post a Comment