Waxing Pre/Post Care

Before Wax:

  1. Hair Length: Make sure hair is at least 1/4 inch long (about the length of a grain of rice) for the wax to grip properly.
  2. Exfoliate Gently: Lightly exfoliate the area 24-48 hours before your appointment to remove dead skin and prevent ingrowns. Avoid harsh scrubs right before waxing.
  3. Clean Skin: Arrive with clean, dry skin. Skip lotions, oils, deodorant, or self-tanner on the area the day of your appointment.
  4. Pain Prep: If you're sensitive, you may take an over-the-counter pain reliever (like ibuprofen) 30-60 minutes before. Avoid alcohol, as it can make skin more sensitive.
  5. Avoid Sun & Heat: No tanning, sunburns, saunas, or hot tubs on the area at least 24 hours before your wax.
  6. Schedule around your cycle (optional): You may feel more sensitive right before or during your period, so plan accordingly if that affects your comfort.
  7. Medications/Skin Care: Avoid waxing if you're using retinoids, Accutane, or other medications that thin the skin. Always lets your esthetician know about prescriptions or topical treatments. (See contraindications)

After Wax:

  1. Hands Off: Avoid touching freshly waxed skin to prevent bacteria from causing irritation or breakouts.
  2. Skip Heat & Sweat: No gyms, saunas, swimming, or hot tubs for at least 24 hours to let your skin calm down.
  3. No Sex: Refrain from sexual activity for 24-48 hours after intimate waxing. Friction, sweat, and bacteria can irritate sensitive skin and increase the risk of bumps and infection.
  4. Stay Cool: Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for 48 hours- waxed skin is more sensitive and prone to burning.
  5. No Harsh Products: Avoid perfurmes, deodorants, exfoliants, and active ingredients (like retinol or acids) on the waxed area for at least 24-48 Hours.
  6. Loose Clothing: Wear soft, breathable fabric to reduce friction and irritation.
  7. Exfoliate Late: after 2-3 days, start gently exfoliating a few times per week to prevent ingrown hairs. Pair with a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
  8. Normal Reactions: Redness or small bumps are common and usually fade within a day. Use a cool compress or soothing aloe get if needed.
  9. Avoid Picking: Do not shave, tweeze, or pick at the hairs between appointments-it disrupts your waxing cycle and may cause irritation.


Keeping up with regular appointments (every 4-6 weeks) helps train hair to grow back finer and softer, making each session easier over time.

Waxing Contraindications:

Medications & Topical Products:

  1. Accutane (Isotretinoin):

❌ Cannot wax while on it.

✅ Must be off for 6–12 months before any waxing (especially face).


  1. Topical Retinoids (Retin-A, Tretinoin, Differin, Epiduo, Tazorac, etc.):

❌ Do not wax treated areas.

✅ Stop use 5–7 days before facial or body waxing.


  1. Topical Acne Medications (Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, AHA/BHA creams):

❌ Can cause lifting/irritation.

✅ Stop use 3–5 days before facial waxing.


  1. Oral Steroids (Prednisone):

❌ May cause skin thinning and bruising.

✅ Wax only after use is discontinued and with doctor’s clearance.


  1. Blood Thinners (Aspirin, anticoagulants):

❌ Increased risk of bruising.

✅ Consult with doctor before waxing.


Skin Treatments & Procedures:

  1. Chemical Peels (Glycolic, Salicylic, TCA, Jessner, etc.):

❌ Do not wax on recently peeled skin.

✅ Wait at least 7 days; stronger peels may require 2–3 weeks.


  1. Microdermabrasion or Dermaplaning:

❌ Do not wax right after.

✅ Wait 7 days before facial waxing.


  1. Laser Treatments (Resurfacing, Hair Removal):

❌ Do not wax directly after.

✅ Wait 7 days (or longer if skin is red/peeling).


  1. Botox or Dermal Fillers:

❌ Avoid waxing near the area immediately.

✅ Wait 72 hours before waxing brows, lip, or face.


Skin Conditions & Sensitivities:

  1. Sunburn:

❌ Never wax sunburned skin.

✅ Wait until fully healed (no redness or peeling).


  1. Active Skin Infections (bacterial, viral, fungal):

❌ Do not wax infected areas.

✅ Wax only once the skin is clear.


  1. Cold Sores / Herpes Outbreaks:

❌ No waxing during outbreak.

✅ Safe to wax once outbreak is fully healed.


  1. Eczema, Psoriasis, Dermatitis:

❌ Avoid active flare-ups.

✅ Safe when skin is calm and not irritated.


  1. Open Cuts, Wounds, Bruises, or Rashes:

❌ Do not wax over broken skin.

✅ Wait until fully healed.


Other Conditions:

  1. Varicose Veins:

❌ Do not wax directly over.

✅ Can wax surrounding areas with caution.


  1. Diabetes:

❌ Higher risk of infection/slow healing.

✅ Can wax with doctor’s clearance.


  1. Pregnancy:

✅ Safe but skin may be more sensitive — especially for Brazilian or facial waxing.


  1. Recent Surgery or Fresh Scars:

❌ Do not wax over new scars/stitches.

✅ Wait 3+ months or until fully healed.


✨ Facial Waxing Extra Notes:


  1. Always double-check skincare products (retinols, acids, acne creams) — they’re the #1 reason for skin lifting.
  2. Redness on the face may last longer since skin is thinner.
  3. Patch testing is recommended for first-time clients or sensitive skin.

Waxing FAQs

Does waxing hurt?

Everyone's pain tolerance is different, but most clients say the discomfort is quick and manageable. The more consistent you are with waxing, the easier it gets over time.

How long does my hair need to be for waxing?

At least 1/4 inch long (about the length of a grain of rice). If it's too short, the wax may not grip properly.

How should I prepare for my appointment?
  1. Lightly exfoliate 24 hours before
  2. Avoid heavy lotion or oils the day of
  3. Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Can I wax while on my period?

Yes, but you may feel more sensitive. Please wear a fresh tampon or menstrual cup at your appointment.

How long will the results last?

Most people get waxed every 3-5 weeks, depending on your hair growth cycle and consistency.

Is waxing safe for sensitive skin?

Yes! Some redness is normal, but it usually fades within a few hours. I use hypoallergenic high-quality wax.

What should I avoid after waxing?

For the first 24-48 hours, avoid:

  1. Heavy sweating (gym, sauna, hot yoga)
  2. Sun exposure and tanning beds
  3. Pools, hot tubs, or long baths
  4. Tight clothing that may rub the skin
Can I shave between waxes?

No - shaving disrupts the growth cycle. for the smoothest results, wait and let your hair grow for you next wax.

What areas do you wax?

Brows, face, underarms, arms, bikini/bush, legs and more. (see booking menu for full list!)

Do you offer male/ALL-gender waxing?

Yes, Brows and Bushes is an inclusive space- all are welcome.