In our Guide to Waxing, we provided a brief overview of the advantages of waxing. However, we believe that the benefits of waxing are so significant that they deserve a dedicated article. Waxing is a highly favoured beauty treatment that can be done at home, or at professional salons, including those offering waxing in Basingstoke, and it has gained popularity for good reasons. Whether you’re preparing for the summer or simply enjoying the smoothness that waxing offers, continue reading to learn more about this effective method of hair removal.
Why wax?
Waxing offers a longer-lasting method of hair removal compared to shaving, which is the typical alternative. While shaving requires you to go back to the razor within a day or two, waxing allows you to enjoy a hair-free period of up to six weeks.
Various Methods of Hair Removal with Wax
Hot waxing and warm waxing are the two main techniques used for hair removal. In the warm waxing method, a spatula is used to apply the wax directly onto the skin. Then, Strips of fabric are gently pressed onto the waxed area and swiftly pulled off, effectively getting rid of both wax and unwanted hair from the skin surface.
Hot waxing involves the application of heated wax directly on the skin, followed by allowing the wax to cool and solidify. Subsequently, a section of The wax is lifted, and then the wax is removed directly from the skin.
Hot waxing is advantageous when it comes to effectively unclogging the pores before removing the strips, which makes it particularly suitable for sensitive areas. In most cases, we believe that the advantages of hot wax surpass those of warm wax.
Let’s now delve into the advantages of waxing.
1. Less regrowth
One significant advantage of waxing is that it slows down the regrowth of hair.
Waxing involves extracting hair from the root, while shaving simply trims the hair at the skin’s surface. Even with a meticulous shave, a significant portion of the hair remains just beneath the skin, poised to resurface within a day or two. It is crucial to grasp this distinction when comparing the benefits of waxing versus shaving.
Waxing provides a remarkably smooth result, leaving no stubble or areas that are missed after showering. Even individuals who have rapid hair regrowth can still benefit from waxing for a period of 3 to 4 weeks.
Furthermore, establishing a regular waxing routine with your beautician will enable you to determine the optimal frequency that suits you, leading to reduced overall regrowth.
2. Finer regrowth
The quality of regrowth you encounter is equally important as the quantity.
When you shave, as mentioned earlier, you remove the hair by cutting it. This leads to a blunt cut, as hair is not naturally blunt. That’s why hair that grows back after shaving feels stubbly.
When waxing, the hair is extracted from the root, resulting in a regrowth that has a smooth and tapered end. This new hair is thinner and doesn’t have the same stubbly texture as when shaving. As a result, even between waxing sessions, your skin will feel less hairy compared to after shaving.
As time passes, there is a possibility that individual hair strands might cease to regrow, resulting in a reduction in hair density.
3. The similarities between waxing and exfoliation
Excess accumulation of dead skin cells and dirt on the skin can lead to breakouts, imperfections, and dryness. This is why we engage in exfoliation, as it helps eliminate all of these impurities.
During the waxing process, all unwanted hair is removed, resulting in a smooth, glowing, and clean area. However, it is important to note that waxing is not primarily an exfoliation method. To achieve optimal results, it is advisable to exfoliate your skin a few days before your waxing session. It is recommended to avoid exfoliating 48 hours before and after your waxing appointment as this can increase skin sensitivity.
4. Eliminate Shaving Rash with Waxing
Shaving rash, which refers to skin inflammation resulting from irritation, can be effectively prevented by opting for hot waxing. If you frequently experience a shaving rash, one of the primary advantages of using hot wax is that it eliminates the need for regular friction on the affected area, thereby reducing inflammation. By opting for waxing, you can give your skin a chance to heal and remain calm for extended periods, as hair regrowth takes over a month.
5. Reducing the occurrence of ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs can pose a significant problem for individuals when it comes to shaving. Not only can they be painful and unattractive, but in some cases, they may even become infected, potentially resulting in scarring.
A well-informed waxing expert will proficiently remove the wax strips in a manner that has been shown to effectively decrease the chances of ingrown hairs. This process entails a swift removal of the strips while keeping the skin taut.
If you are especially susceptible to ingrown hairs, it is advisable to inform your esthetician and diligently exfoliate and moisturise two days after the waxing procedure.
6. A Farewell to Itchy Waxing
After shaving, a common experience for many individuals is to feel itching right away, and once regrowth starts, the itching intensifies once again. Conversely, when waxing, you will experience a quick stinging sensation followed by a prickling feeling, but afterward, you should remain free from itching for a longer period of time. Furthermore, you won’t have to use any shaving products that cause irritation or exacerbate itching.
7. Eliminate Shaving Cuts with the Convenience of Waxing
Even if you’re an experienced leg shaver with two decades of practice, there’s still a chance of accidentally cutting your ankle with the razor. This is because achieving a close shave requires a thick lather, which makes your hands, razor, and skin slippery. A skilled waxing procedure ensures that there are no nicks, cuts, or harm to the skin.
8. Indulge in self-care and enjoy some personal time
Getting rid of unwanted body hair can be seen as part of a beauty routine. Opting for a waxing treatment, especially in the convenience of your own home, provides an opportunity to receive pampering and care from a skilled beautician. It also allows you to take a break from your hectic schedule and engage in an activity that boosts your confidence and enhances your beauty. While there might be a momentary sting when the wax strips are pulled off, the comforting warmth of the hot wax and the expertise of the beautician make it a truly indulgent experience.