We’ve all been there: you just left a waxing session and you feel great, but you could really use a shower to shake off the day and find your zen. Is that allowed? Will showering immediately after your bikini wax increase the risk of ingrown hairs or the likelihood of infection?
If you’re in the same boat, we’ve got you covered. While our handy guide to waxing aftercare includes valuable information about proper post-wax aftercare, we figured some folks could benefit from a deep dive into showering (or not showering) after waxing.
How to keep your skin happy after waxing
Proper waxing aftercare can help prevent adverse effects like ingrown hairs, acne, and irritation. Here’s what you need to know about taking care of your post-wax skin:
Our aftercare product pick: Waxness Dr. Bump 3 Step Treatment Kit
Keep skin hydrated
Waxing exposes pores and follicles to open air, which can quickly dehydrate your skin. It’s essential to drink plenty of water and use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in hydration.
If you haven’t already established a skincare routine, now is the time to start. You can keep it simple with a gentle cleanser, high-quality moisturizer, and sunscreen, just remember that consistency is key.
Wear loose-fitting clothes after waxing
Friction and freshly-waxed skin are not friends. Tight, restrictive clothing can increase irritation, and encourage the formation of ingrown hairs. Wear loose, comfortable clothes that allow your skin to breathe.
Consider investing in a few pairs of 100% cotton underwear, especially if you plan to make Brazilian and bikini waxes part of your routine self-care practice.
Give your skin time to recover
You don’t have to swear off showering after waxing, but you do need to give your skin time to heal. A good rule of thumb is to wait 24 hours after waxing to shower or apply makeup.
If your skin feels happy and healthy, you may be able to exercise and use your normal topical products. However, it’s best to wait 48 hours if you feel any lingering sensitivity.
Learn more: Tips To Wax for Sensitive Skin
Gently exfoliate once your skin has healed
Once your skin has bounced back, gently exfoliate the treatment area every couple of days to eliminate dead skin cells and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. Exfoliating will help you maintain that silky-smooth post-wax skin texture we all know and love.
What to avoid after waxing
Here are a few things you’ll need to skip in the first 24 to 48 hours after waxing:
- Showering
- Direct sun exposure
- Excessive heat
- Swimming in pools and salt water
- Sweating and exercise
- Exfoliation
- Touching or picking at skin
- Harsh topical products
- Comedogenic products like mineral oils
- Artificially fragranced products
Get the best post-wax supplies
Why avoid showering after waxing?
Waxing removes your outermost layer of skin, exposing pores and follicles to harmful bacteria and drying air. Showering too quickly after waxing can drastically increase the risk of infection and dehydration. Hot water also promotes inflammation, which your skin will already be fighting.
This practice may also soften the skin and encourage the formation of ingrown hairs. Soothing irritation should be your primary objective in the hours after waxing, and a hot shower won’t help your skin heal.
Related: The Truth About Painless Waxing
How to hydrate skin when showering after a waxing session
Sometimes, showering after a wax is absolutely necessary. When you simply can’t wait 24 hours to rinse off, here’s what you can do to minimize the side effects:
Use skin-safe products and tools
Bacteria is the enemy when showering after waxing, so it’s essential to use a clean washcloth. Don’t even look at the dirty loofah or sponge in the corner of your shower. While you’re at it, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser or body wash that won’t strip moisture from your skin.
Our pick: Mancine Natural Body Wash
Use lukewarm water
We all know how incredible a long, hot shower can feel after a rough day, but this practice can negatively affect your sensitive post-wax skin. Heat and hot water will dehydrate your skin and increase the risk of painful inflammation and dangerous infections. If you must shower after a wax, use only lukewarm water and get in and out as quickly as possible.
Moisturize immediately
Following your lukewarm shower, gently pat the skin with a clean towel to remove excess water. While a lightweight lotion or cream may be all you need, consider following the protocol below to calm inflammation and ensure optimal hydration.
Begin application immediately after your shower, allowing each layer to soak in before applying the next:
- Witch hazel: Antiseptic properties help minimize risk of infection and encourage pore closure.
- Aloe vera gel: Soothing and cooling to promote the healing process and reduce inflammation.
- Hyaluronic acid serum: Delivers a surge of moisture and helps retain that hydration over time.
- Moisturizer: Help lock in moisture and prevent evaporation.
Pro recommendation: Mancine Hand & Body Lotion
Bare Beauty Wax Supply has everything you need!
At Bare Beauty Wax Supply, we have everything you need to ensure a quality waxing experience. Explore our extensive collection of products or reach out today to learn more!