The low-maintenance nature of waxing is one of the top benefits of this hair removal technique. After all, a single waxing session can leave your skin silky-smooth for weeks at a time. But there’s one critical practice you can’t ignore if you want to achieve the best possible results: proper exfoliation.
We’ll cut to the chase. Yes, you should absolutely exfoliate before waxing, and this guide will help you determine the best time to exfoliate and the different methods you can use to maximize your results.
Why is it important to exfoliate before waxing?
Exfoliating before waxing gives your skin the best chance of success. Here are the benefits of pre-wax exfoliation:
Removes dead skin cells
Over time, dead skin cells, product residue, and natural oils accumulate on the skin. This layer can dull your skin’s luminosity and create a rough, bumpy skin texture, but the effects aren’t merely cosmetic. These cells can also clog pores and block hair follicles, trapping strands below the surface as they grow.
When you exfoliate before waxing, you help your body shed this buildup, which reduces the risk of ingrown hairs and creates a cleaner canvas for your upcoming wax.
Improves wax adhesion
Attempting to wax an area that hasn’t been properly exfoliated can lead to major discomfort and disappointing results. Wax will become contaminated with dead skin cells and other impurities as soon as it makes contact with the skin, which can impact the bond it forms with the targeted hairs, cause breakage, and damage skin.
But exfoliating before your wax helps ensure great adhesion for reduced hair breakage and more thorough, uniform results. And when your hair removal specialist doesn’t have to re-wax or tweeze leftover strands, you’ll enjoy faster waxing appointments.
Reduces irritation
While everyone should exfoliate before waxing, it’s particularly important for people with sensitive skin. By supporting quick, resistance-free hair removal, this skincare practice minimizes any tugging on the treatment area, reducing redness, swelling, and post-wax discomfort. You’ll also encounter fewer ingrown hairs, bumps, and irritation that can appear after waxing.
How to exfoliate before waxing
Curious about how, exactly, you should exfoliate before waxing? We’ve got you covered!
Use a gentle exfoliator
Whether you opt for physical or chemical exfoliators (more on those in a moment), always opt for gentle exfoliating products that won’t damage your skin. For example, a body scrub made of brown sugar and essential oils will be easier on your skin than one containing coarse salt or crushed nut shells.
And a low-concentration lactic acid exfoliant is more skin-friendly than a robust chemical peel. Remember, the goal is to dislodge dead skin cells, not rub your skin raw.
Exfoliate 24 to 48 hours before your appointment
Exfoliating one to two days before waxing is ideal, as it gives your pores time to close and your skin ample time to recover. Avoid exfoliation on the same day as your appointment, which can increase sensitivity and irritation.
Keep skin moisturized after exfoliating
When skin is pliable and hydrated, hairs can slide out of the follicle more easily for a comfortable, effective treatment. After exfoliating, cleanse with a gentle body wash and apply a lightweight body oil or cream to lock in moisture. Remember to drink plenty of water before and after your treatment.
The best types of exfoliants to use before waxing
The right exfoliant depends largely on your skin type and your chosen treatment area. Let’s explore the best exfoliating products to use before your next waxing session.
Physical exfoliants
Before waxing legs, arms, and other areas with thicker skin, consider using a physical exfoliant to remove dead skin cells. Dry brushing, body scrubs, and fine-grain gels help polish the skin and may even improve circulation thanks to the gentle massage you’ll give yourself in the process.
Chemical exfoliants
There’s no shortage of chemical exfoliators out there, including:
- Alpha-hydroxy acids: AHAs like lactic and glycolic acids are perfect for dry, sensitive skin.
- Beta-hydroxy acids: Salicylic acid is ideal for oily, acne-prone skin, penetrating deep into pores to dissolve oils and dead skin cells.
- Fruit enzymes: Nourishing alternatives include papaya and pineapple enzymes.
These products all work a little differently, so choosing the right one for your skin type will improve your overall results. Many people regularly use a gentle chemical exfoliant two to three times per week, stopping 24 to 48 hours before their waxing appointment.
Considerations for sensitive skin
In many cases, chemical exfoliants are more gentle on sensitive skin than physical alternatives, as it’s easier to damage the skin with harsh scrubs or an aggressive technique. No matter which one you choose, always perform a test patch of new products to ensure they don’t cause irritation.
Keep your skin healthy with pre- and post-wax products from Bare Beauty!
At Bare Beauty Wax Supply, we offer a wide selection of products for waxing artists and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re stocking up on hard and soft waxes for your salon or the best pre- and post-wax products to make your next session the most comfortable yet, we’re here to help. Browse our inventory today to discover your new favorite items!