While women’s hair removal has long existed at the forefront of aesthetic services, more men than ever are choosing to wax unwanted facial and body hair. This should come as no surprise. After all, waxing helps both men and women enjoy silky, hair-free skin for much longer between sessions, so you can put down the razor and get on with your life.
Join us for a guide to hair waxing for men, including the benefits of waxing and how to best care for your skin before and after treatment.
What to expect with hair waxing for men
For many men, the first hair waxing session can feel a little awkward, especially when addressing intimate areas or opting for a men’s Brazilian or ‘manzilian.’ However, remember that your waxing specialist has seen it all. Here’s what you can expect from a new waxing regimen:
Choosing a wax studio that caters to men
Not all waxing specialists have sufficient experience working with men. And while the process isn’t all that different from treating women, thick, coarse hairs may be more resistant to wax and require a specialized approach.
If possible, try to find a salon that understands the needs of men when it comes to waxing. By looking for a male-centric salon, you can hire a waxing professional who understands how to work with men’s hair and knows how different parts of the body should be waxed.
Communicating with your waxing specialist
Your esthetician wants you to feel comfortable during your waxing session. It’s important that you communicate openly and speak up if you feel discomfort with either the physical sensation of hair removal or their proximity to sensitive areas. You can always ask your waxing specialist to walk you through their process as they work, so you know exactly what is happening at any given time.
Depending on the treatment area, your esthetician may use different products to remove unwanted hair. Soft wax is typically applied to larger treatment areas and is removed with a cloth or wax strip. Hard wax is commonly used for the pubic area and Brazilian waxing. It adheres only to hair and doesn’t require a strip to remove, making it a gentle alternative to soft wax.
Keep in mind that the first wax is usually the most uncomfortable. Most people quickly adjust to any discomfort.
How long will hair waxing for men last?
Your hair growth cycle and treatment area will determine how long your results last. On average, you can expect the following:
- Face and neck: 2 to 3 weeks
- Chest and back: 3 to 6 weeks
- Underarms: 2 to 4 weeks
- Arms and legs: 4 to 6 weeks
- Brazilian: 3 to 5 weeks
- Feet and toes: 3 to 6 weeks
Related: How Long Does Waxing Last?
How to Prepare for Your Waxing Appointment
Hair waxing for men requires proper preparation. Here are a few tips to ensure your skin is ready for treatment:
Grow out your hair
For men and women alike, hair should be at least ¼” long for a safe and effective waxing session. This generally requires two to three weeks of growth. Your waxing specialist will be happy to trim strands that are too long.
Avoid sun exposure
In the weeks before your waxing appointment, stay out of the sun as much as possible. Wear protective clothing and broad-spectrum sunscreen anytime you head outdoors. Tanning and minor burns can make waxing incredibly uncomfortable and increase the risk of adverse side effects.
Gently exfoliate
Exfoliating before waxing eliminates dead skin cells and helps wax adhere to hairs more effectively. Do so 24 hours before your session so you can enjoy silky smooth skin after treatment. Exfoliation also minimizes the risk of painful, unsightly ingrown hairs.
Arrive with clean skin and comfortable clothing
The day of your appointment, shower to remove any oils and skincare products from the treatment area. Don’t apply moisturizer, deodorant, or any other topical products that may form a barrier between the skin and the wax.
Consider pain management
If you’re concerned about discomfort during your wax, consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen about an hour before your appointment. Just avoid aspirin, which can promote bleeding and bruising.
Related: Men’s Back Waxing: Everything You Wanted to Know
Men’s hair waxing aftercare
In the event that your salon doesn’t provide aftercare guidelines, here are a few best practices men should follow after hair waxing:
Wait to shower and swim
Open pores, sensitive skin, and harmful bacteria are all great reasons to skip the shower and pool after your waxing session. Ideally, keep your skin dry for 12 to 24 hours post-wax. When you shower, stick to lukewarm water until any redness subsides.
Skip the gym
Freshly waxed skin is more susceptible to bacteria, so it’s important to avoid excessive sweat that may introduce these microorganisms into your open pores. Additionally, friction can encourage folliculitis and ingrown hairs.
Stay out of the sun
Waxing exfoliates your skin, revealing fresh layers that are more sensitive to UV rays. Avoid sun exposure for 24 to 48 hours as your skin heals.
Stick to gentle skincare products
In the first 48 hours, limit the topical products used on your skin. Opt for a gentle cleanser, fragrance-free moisturizer, and mineral sunscreen during this time. If you experience inflammation or increased sensitivity, apply pure aloe vera gel or a cool compress.
Exfoliate after 48 hours
Beyond the 48-hour mark, you should be able to return to your normal skincare routine. This is the time to reintroduce gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs. Avoid intense scrubbing and harsh products. Instead, opt for a wet washcloth or gentle chemical exfoliant to delicately slough off dead skin.
Related: A Guide to Male Brazilian or Manzilian Waxing
Get expert tips and professional wax supplies at Bare Beauty!
Many men have embraced waxing to remove unwanted hair from the eyebrows, toes, and everything in between. You can even opt for a full-body service to eliminate strands from top to bottom in a single appointment.
Bare Beauty Waxing Supply is the ultimate source for waxing supplies and industry insights. Explore our wide selection of quality products, check out our educational courses, or reach out today to learn more!