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Waxing Hair Removal: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions:

How does hair waxing work?

A wax combination is spread thinly over the skin. A cloth strip is pressed on the top and then ripped off with a quick movement removing the wax along with the hair and dead skin cells leaving the skin smooth.

What's the difference between hot waxes and cold waxes?

Good hot waxes melt just above body temperature so they can be easily spread thinly over the skin. As they harden they trap the hair in the wax so it is removed by the roots when the wax is ripped off.

Cold waxes are available in pre-coated strips which can be pressed directly onto the skin. The hair sticks to the wax and is then removed with the quick pull back action. (Cold waxing is also known as Persian waxing)

What is the effect on the skin?

As dead skin cells are removed in this process the skin can feel quite smooth afterwards. The hair waxing action does cause the skin to sting and many find a soothing skin healing cream to be helpful afterwards. Some persons find the skin reacts with redness and bumps which disappear after a few hours.

Are there any health precautions to keep in mind with hair waxing?

Some physicians do not recommend hair waxing for persons suffering from diabetes or who have varicose veins or poor circulation as they are more susceptible to infection.

Users of Retin-A, Renova, Differin or Accutane are advised not to use hair waxing on the face as these medications tend to weaken the skin and tearing of the skin may occur when the wax is removed.

Hair waxing should not be done on areas of skin affected by warts, pimples, moles or rashes or on skin that is irritated, chapped or suffering from sunburn. Never apply wax to peeling, broken skin or varicose veins. Never apply wax to the nipples when removing hair from the breast area.

On what body areas can hair waxing be used?

It is wise to test a small area first but generally waxing can be used on most parts of the body. The exceptions are the male genitals, nipples, inside the ears and nose, eyelashes.

How long before hair reappears?

Generally between 3 and 8 weeks. Less hair regrows and it is generally finer. Eventually some hair never regrows.