Negative side effects of waxing can include uncomfortable problems like pain, ingrown hairs, breakouts, and infected hair follicles. Even so, many people prefer waxing because of its longer-lasting results and because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to do.
Certain medical conditions can cause excess hair growth (hirsutism), such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and Cushing syndrome. Waxing can help people with these conditions improve their appearance and self-esteem.
This article discusses some of the side effects of waxing, and how you can reduce them.
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Choosing an Esthetician
Because hair waxing is a procedure, safety and hygiene are essential. Check references, ask about experience, and confirm that the esthetician and the facility are adequately accredited based on your state's regulations. All states except for Connecticut require esthetician licensing.
Pain
Yanking hairs out from the root can hurt. But, there are some things you can do before, during, and after waxing to alleviate the discomfort.
How to Treat Pain From Waxing
To mitigate pain before you wax, try the following:
- Discontinue retinoids (acne medication) to reduce the risk of skin damage.
- Take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication an hour or two beforehand.
- Trim hair to half-inch to make it easier for the wax to adhere.
- Apply a warm compress to allow hairs to come out more easily.
If you will be waxing facial hair and regularly use an OTC retinol or prescription retinoid product, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises stopping for two to five days before waxing to reduce the amount of skin that is removed along with the hair.
Practice deep breathing while you wax. When you anticipate pain, you may unintentionally hold your breath. Unfortunately, holding your breath can make the pain worse. Simple breathing techniques can decrease anxiety and pain.
Afterward, applying cold packs to painful areas and keeping bath and shower temperatures lukewarm can help alleviate discomfort.
In addition, friction from tight fabrics can exacerbate post-wax pain. Tight clothing is also a risk factor for folliculitis (see below for information on this condition). So, keep clothing loose.
Many people find that the more frequently and regularly they wax, the less uncomfortable the process becomes. However, if this isn't the case for you, or you find the pain unbearable, consider alternative hair removal methods.
Comparison of Hair Removal Methods
Ingrown Hair
Ingrown hairs are a common side effect of almost all hair removal methods. These are tiny hairs that, when not entirely removed, coil back into the skin and continue to grow. This process results in tiny bumps that can resemble pimples.
Infection is a possible side effect of ingrown hairs. To prevent them, exfoliate skin before and after waxing. Exfoliation removes dead skin and debris and helps keep hairs pointing in the right direction.
When waxing yourself, pull the cloth strip off in the opposite direction of how the hair grows. Doing so will help ensure you get all the hair, leaving none behind that can become ingrown.
Breakouts
Waxing can remove skin as well as hair, which leaves your pores open and vulnerable to invasion by bacteria. The waxing process itself can also cause inflammation. These things can contribute to post-waxing breakouts.
You can reduce your chances of breaking out by thoroughly cleansing your skin before waxing with a gentle exfoliating product that doesn't leave a residue. If you're waxing your own skin, make sure to wear surgical gloves.
After waxing, avoid using any oil-based products on your skin and don't touch the area. It's okay to use witch hazel or aloe vera to help soothe your skin.
Redness and Irritation
Waxing involves the application of hot wax, which penetrates the hair follicle and "grabs" the hair so it can be pulled out by the root. This can cause some skin irritation and redness.
For most people, the redness fades a few minutes after the waxing. It may take longer if it's the first or second time you've had that part of your body waxed.
You can help reduce redness and irritation by wearing loose fitting clothes and applying an oil-free, fragrance-free cooling product.
Allergic Reactions
Some people can have an allergic reaction to waxing. This may take shape in the form of allergic contact dermatitis caused by rosin (colophony), an ingredient used in some waxes. You can perform a series of allergy tests to determine an allergic reaction to rosin.
An allergic reaction may cause itchy bumps and a burning or stinging sensation in the skin. This type of reaction can also be aggravated by the soap or laundry detergents you use.
You may be able to prevent an allergic reaction by using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser before waxing and applying aloe vera afterwards. Look for a wax that is rosin-free, fragrance-free, and formulated for sensitive skin.
Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis
Sunburn
Because waxing removes a very thin layer of skin along with hair, waxed areas tend to be more susceptible to sun exposure—what's known as photosensitivity. This sensitivity is especially likely to happen if you take a hormonal contraceptive, like birth control pills.
To prevent the ill effects of the sun on waxed skin, be especially vigilant about using sunscreen on exposed areas or wearing protective clothing outside—even on cloudy days.
Bleeding or Bruising
Although it happens rarely, waxing can cause trauma to the skin. The risk is higher for some people, including:
- Those who've recently spent a lot of time in the sun
- People who have had a cosmetic procedure (such as dermabrasion)
- Those taking medications associated with bruising (like aspirin, blood thinners, or hormonal birth control)
- People with certain medical conditions such as rosacea or phlebitis (inflammation of a vein)
If your skin is already damaged or inflamed, wait until it has healed before waxing.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is a bacterial skin infection that can result from hair follicle damage. Shaving can also cause it. One study found that folliculitis from waxing occurs most often on the arms.
According to the AAD, folliculitis will usually resolve on its own. So, to help it along and to ease discomfort, apply a warm compress to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes, three or more times per day. You also should not wax, shave, or pluck hair for at least 30 days.
Stubborn folliculitis may require antibiotics.
Conditions Related to HIV/AIDS
Infection
Infection is not a usual side effect of waxing. However, if a salon or esthetician isn't diligent about hygiene—such as not changing the wax or cleaning equipment between appointments—waxing can transfer bacteria from one client to the next.
Symptoms of a skin infection include:
- Fever
- Redness
- Swelling
- Itching
- Warmth
- Pain
If you experience any of these after being waxed, see your healthcare provider right away. If it turns out you do have an infection, you can treat it with an antibacterial cream or ointment, or oral antibiotics.
Summary
People with PCOS often have excessive hair growth. Waxing can be an excellent option for managing unwanted hair. However, it can result in side effects, like pain, infections, and ingrown hairs. To prevent or reduce the risk of side effects, be sure to choose an esthetician carefully, prepare your skin beforehand, and soothe it afterward.
A Word From Verywell
Some pain with waxing is expected. However, waxing should never result in skin trauma. If you notice injury or signs of infection after waxing, talk to a healthcare provider right away. Often, you can manage skin infections with at-home care. However, getting medical advice early on can help speed the recovery process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should hair be to wax?
Hair length should be between one-fourth to three-fourths of an inch in order to wax. If needed, you can use safety scissors to trim the hair to this length. There isn't a way to fully prevent pain from waxing, but shorter hair is less painful to remove than longer hair.
What kind of post-wax care should be taken?
Post-wax care can involve pain management and moisturizer to soothe the skin. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to waxed areas for 15 minute intervals. Afterward, use an oil-free or non-comedogenic moisturizer and gently apply it to the waxed skin.
