There’s a common misconception out there that waxing alone is enough to cause deep discoloration, but it isn’t quite that simple. While waxing can cause some degree of trauma and inflammation, a skilled waxing specialist using proper techniques is much less likely to trigger hyperpigmentation. In this guide, we’ll help you explain the connection between hyperpigmentation and waxing to your clients and give them steps to take control of their results.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is an incredibly common skincare concern. People with this condition notice dark spots or patches of skin that take on a darker tone than the surrounding area.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
There are many root causes of hyperpigmentation, including:
- Inflammation
- Skin trauma
- Sun exposure
- Hormonal changes
- Improper aftercare
- Skin tone and genetics
In many cases, it isn’t just one factor that leads to discoloration, but several at once.
Are there different types of hyperpigmentation?
There are three primary types of hyperpigmentation: melasma, sun-induced, and post-inflammatory. Melasma is discoloration that appears in response to hormonal changes.
Symmetrical dark spots may appear on the face and worsen with waxing. Age spots are caused by excessive UV exposure and tend to develop later in life.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) occurs after skin trauma or inflammation. It’s the most common form of post-waxing discoloration, but things like ingrown hairs and acne can also cause it.
Dark spots and the aging process
As we age, the cumulative effects of sun exposure, slower cellular regeneration, and thinning skin begin to show on our faces. These factors along with reduced barrier function make it harder for our bodies to shed dead skin cells and maintain a flawless, youthful complexion. Dark spots don’t simply take longer to fade. They also appear more easily.
Related: How to Even Out Skin Tone
Client concerns about hyperpigmentation and waxing
It’s only natural for your clients to feel protective about their skin. We have some expert guidance to help ease their fears if they come to you with concerns about waxing and hyperpigmentation.
Poor waxing technique
Waxing itself doesn’t cause hyperpigmentation, but poor technique does. It’s much more likely to occur when waxing technicians make critical mistakes, such as:
- Over-waxing the same treatment area.
- Applying wax that’s too hot.
- Using excess pressure during strip removal.
- Removing wax in the wrong direction.
- Failing to hold the skin taut during hair removal.
- Talk through these concerns with your client, so they know you’re actively using best practices in your salon or spa.
Prepping skin the right way
Of course, your clients are also responsible for proper skin prep before they arrive for their waxing appointment. Failing to hydrate, exfoliate, and protect skin from the sun can all increase the risk of hyperpigmentation after waxing.
Remind your clients to gently exfoliate, wear plenty of sunscreen, drink lots of water, and stop using harsh skincare products as their appointment approaches. These can include products with acids and retinoids.
Protecting skin after waxing
Waxing aftercare is another crucial determining factor that’s largely in your client’s hands. To achieve the best results and avoid those pesky dark spots, they should do the following:
- Avoid heat, sweating, and friction for 24 to 48 hours after waxing.
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure.
- Moisturize regularly to keep skin hydrated.
- Apply soothing, anti-inflammatory products to nourish skin.
- Gently exfoliate every few days once the skin has recovered from waxing.
Related: Tips to Wax for Sensitive Skin
Other considerations with hyperpigmentation and waxing
Let’s explore a few final thoughts on hyperpigmentation and waxing to help your clients achieve the best possible results.
Educating your clients
Never assume that skin prep and aftercare protocols are common knowledge. It’s your job to make sure every client understands their role in hyperpigmentation and waxing. While talking through the steps can be helpful, you should also offer written instructions to ensure that nothing is forgotten or lost in translation.
Consider typing up a printable guide to proper skin preparation and aftercare that you can give clients at the end of each session. It should contain a recovery timeline so clients can set realistic expectations.
You can also include your favorite nourishing products, like a hyaluronic acid serum and pure aloe vera gel, to eliminate guesswork from the process. Finally, this cheat sheet should feature some basic information about waxing and hyperpigmentation.
Prevention methods
Reversing hyperpigmentation can be impossible without extensive skincare treatments, but preventing it is much easier. In addition to adequate prep and aftercare, encourage your clients to:
- Maintain consistent waxing schedules.
- Address ingrown hairs as soon as they’re detected.
- Opt for waxes made especially for sensitive skin.
Products to recommend
When it comes to hyperpigmentation and waxing, the best skincare products are soothing, nourishing, and restorative. Pure aloe vera gel stops inflammation in its tracks, helping your body prevent the development of dark spots and discoloration.
A thick moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid will lock in moisture and support the healing process. And we can’t overstate the importance of a great broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Related: Aftercare Waxing Products You Need in Your Studio
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