Waxing is one of the most common and effective methods for hair removal. It is semi-permanent and painful in nature but removes hair from the root. Plus, almost all areas of the body can be waxed - from legs and underarms to lips. But, whether you're getting waxing done at a salon or doing it on your own at home, there are certain things you should keep in mind to ensure its effects last longer and to avoid any inflammations and infections. Wondering what these dos and don'ts are? Here's what Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, aesthetician and skin expert, suggested in an Instagram post. "If you regularly get waxed, follow these five tips to make the results last longer," she wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta (@drgeetika) Wax 1-2 weeks after your period Your body might be a bit more sensitive during your period. As such, it is advisable to get your waxing done after a week or two of your periods. This is because during menstruation women experience fluctuations of three hormones - oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. One should not only refrain from Brazilian wax, but also waxing other body parts as the process becomes even more painful and uncomfortable. Adding, Dr Batul Patel, leading celebrity dermatologist, and founder of The Bombay Skin Clinic said, "Waxing before you start menstruating is not safe as the pH of the lining starts to alter and one is more exposed to bacterial and fungal infection." Stop using retinol 3-5 days prior Retinol makes your skin sensitive, and since waxing removes unwanted hair, it may take off some skin too. Waxing not removes hair but also dead skin cells. So, if you're using retinol, you won't have as thick a layer of dead skin cells, only fresh ones. This means that waxing can make the skin irritated, red and painful. It can also lead to temporary hyperpigmentation. Dr Patel said, "Applying hot wax on the skin while using retinol can increase the chances of skin burns, allergic reactions and irritated skin." However, there are alternatives which are safe with retinol such as tweezing, threading, laser removal, shaving and using an epilator. Exfoliate the night before Proper exfoliation removes dead skin cells, which clog the skin, and uncover fresh cells below. This allows waxing to remove the hair from the root, preventing breakage, and giving a much better result. For this, you can gently buff away dry skin with a body scrub or polish. Doing so will help give the wax a good grip on the hair. It will also leave the skin feeling soft and nourished. Make sure your skin is dry and clean Always start your waxing session with freshly cleansed skin. It will allow the wax to adhere tightly, release the hair effectively, and help prevent post-waxing breakouts. You can use a product with low alcohol content to help eliminate bacteria and remove any residual oil from the skin. Use a medicated calming cream This can help in the removal of any waxy residue while keeping the skin supple. Moisturising after waxing can help soothe your skin and make it soft. You can use a post-wax oil that has chamomile, which has anti-inflammatory properties to calm the skin. Aloe vera gel is also effective. This can reduce redness, swelling, itching and irritation. Other things to keep in mind when waxing, as per the expert: *Always do a patch test before getting your full body waxed *Waxing should be done a week prior to any event or occasion *Use of small strips while waxing can prevent ingrown hair and bumps *Waxing in the direction of the hair is important to prevent folliculitis *Always moisturise the skin before and after waxing as this assists in decreasing the sensitivity of the skin to waxing and softens the hair follicle to prevent excess pulling of hair *Take a cold shower after waxing using a hydrating body wash *Sunscreen application and reapplication after waxing is extremely imperative *Avoid wearing very tight-fitting clothes immediately after waxing Concluding, Dr Patel said, "In case of any waxing allergies, bumps, folliculitis or ingrown hair, it is advisable to opt for laser hair removal." 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
