If you’ve never had a Brazilian wax, you may be tentative because you don’t know what to expect afterward. Or maybe you’d like some suggestions to make the aftermath a bit easier. While most women experience only mild redness or irritation, there are some other problems that may occur.
The bikini area skin is naturally very sensitive. Waxing is putting a very hot material on this already sensitive spot and abrasively removing hair from the root. So for newbies and veterans alike, here are some ways you can help minimize the negative after-effects.
Things to Avoid After a Brazilian Wax to Reduce Irritation
Sun
First, stay out of the sun after the waxing. The area is extremely sensitive to sun exposure, often leading to hyperpigmentation or the darkening of the skin pigment. After the first 24 hours, make sure the area is protected by sunscreen. Sun protection designed for babies or specifically for the face is ideal.
Heat Moisture
Next, avoid excess heat moisture to the area for the first 48 hours. What this means is staying away from saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, or hot tubs that can irritate the vulnerable skin. A hot shower is fine, what we’re talking about here is something that is trapping hot water or heavy moisture against the skin for an extended period of time.
Heavy Exercise
Related to the heat moisture, sweat can irritate the freshly waxed skin and should be avoided for the first 24 hours. Likewise, any repetitive exercise that would cause rubbing of the area against either clothing or itself can result in irritation and possibly broken skin that may lead to infection. Gotta throw sex into this category as well. Avoid positions that involve rubbing, or convince your partner to take a 24-hour break. (maybe have it done on a Sunday so he’s too busy watching football!)
Tight Clothing
As mentioned above, if the skin is sensitive, allow the area to be free of tight clothing or materials so there is no irritation from the fibers or your own movements.
Exfoliating Scrubs or Cleansers
Ouch! The skin already has been exfoliated to the max with the wax, so give it a day or two to cool down before you use any exfoliating scrubs or cleansers.
Brazilian Wax Discomfort Remedies
You tried those hints but you still have problems? Try the following.
Irritation
Baby powder lightly tapped on will soothe irritated skin. Don’t use baby oil as it could clog the pores. Likewise moisturizing creams. However, avoid baby powder if you have any actual broken skin. You don’t want anything getting into an open wound.
Pain
Waxing is never without pain, but if yours isn’t subsiding, try pain relievers like ibuprofen. For immediate results, and while in the comfort of your own home, try sitting in a cool bath or using ice cubes in a washcloth on the area. Pat dry with a soft cloth.
Rash or Broken Skin
Accidents can happen, leading to broken skin with a little bit of blood, or a rash may develop. Keep the area clean and use Polysporin once a day for 3 days. Do not use Neosporin, it contains neomycin that can be harsh or cause allergic reactions. The rash shouldn’t last more than a week and you should see normal healing.
Ingrown Hairs
A good esthetician will hunt down and remove any ingrown hairs at the time of treatment, but some may result afterward. After your 24-hour hiatus from exfoliating, resume exfoliating the area to ensure oils and skin don’t build up and result in future ingrown hairs. You can also use acne wash pads. A quick pass of the bikini area with acne medicated pads will help prevent ingrown hairs!
Don’t try this at home!
Your best bet for a positive bikini waxing experience is to see a licensed esthetician. Not only does their training ensure you experience the least amount of pain, but you’ll be in a clean, safe environment where the procedure is done right.
A bikini wax is a great way to remove unwanted hair and give you a clean, smooth look.
