Should I Exfoliate Before Waxing? Prepping Your Skin Properly

Waxing is all about achieving smooth, long-lasting results. And, if that’s what you’re after, then proper skin preparation is just as important as the waxing itself - if not more important. 

But, one of the most common questions people ask is, should I exfoliate before waxing? Nd the simple answer is yes. However, there’s more to it than that. There’s also timing, technique, and choosing the right exfoliation method.

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, allowing the wax to grip hair more effectively and reducing the chances of ingrown hairs. But, the other thing is that exfoliating too close to your waxing appointment or using harsh scrubs can leave your skin overly sensitive, making the process more painful and also increasing the risk of irritation. 

That’s why it’s so important to understand the balance between effective exfoliation and protecting your skin so that you can have a smoother, more comfortable waxing experience. That’s the aim of the game after all. 

Stick around while we talk about everything to do with exfoliating and waxing. We’ll explore why exfoliation matters, how to do it correctly, and the best practices for pre- and post-wax care to ensure that your skin stays healthy, soft, and irritation-free.

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The Importance of Exfoliation Before Waxing

Basically, exfoliation involves the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, typically through either mechanical or chemical means. 

When it comes to waxing, there are three reasons people exfoliate beforehand: 

1. Enhances Wax Adherence: By getting rid of dead skin cells, exfoliation allows the wax to adhere more effectively to the hair rather than the skin, making the hair removal process both cleaner and more efficient.
   
   
2. Reduces Ingrown Hairs: Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows back into the skin rather than actually growing straight out of the follicle as they should. So, regular exfoliation helps prevent this by keeping follicles clear and free from debris.
   
   
3. Minimizes Discomfort: Proper exfoliation can lead to a smoother waxing experience with less pulling on the skin, ultimately reducing pain and irritation.
   
   

When to Exfoliate Before Waxing

It’s not just about exfoliating before you wax in general, it’s also about when you do it. Most experts recommend exfoliating 24 to 48 hours prior to waxing. 

This kind of timeframe allows the skin to recover from any potential sensitivity caused by exfoliation, reducing the risk of irritation during waxing. If you exfoliate immediately before waxing, your skin is likely to be very sensitive, so it’ll probably be both uncomfortable and even a little painful.

How to Exfoliate Properly

To achieve the best results, you also need to exfoliate correctly. Here are some of the most important ways you can do that:

• Choose the Right Exfoliant: Find a nice gentle scrub, brush, mitt, or loofah to remove dead skin cells without causing irritation. Avoid harsh exfoliants that can damage the skin, especially if you’re sensitive.
  
  
• Gentle Technique: Use light, circular motions to exfoliate the area, ensuring you don't apply excessive pressure that could lead to microtears or irritation. There’s no need to go crazy and be overly abrasive.
  
  
• Moisturize After Exfoliation: Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! After exfoliating, apply a light, oil-free moisturizer to hydrate the skin and maintain its elasticity. This will help ensure that the skin remains supple and less prone to irritation during waxing.
  
  

More Skin Preparation Tips

In addition to exfoliation, why not consider some of these techniques for prepping your skin for waxing: 

• Maintain the Right Hair Length: Make sure your hair is between half and a quarter inch long to achieve the best possible results. If the hair’s too short, it’s probably not going to be super affecive, because the wax won’t stick to it properly. It’ll also be more painful.
• Avoid Moisturizing on the Day of Waxing: I know we said moisuizing is great - and it is - but don’t do it just before you wax. Rather, avoid any and all lotions or oils on the day of your waxing appointment. These products can create a barrier that prevents the wax from adhering properly. It’s better for your skin to just be natural.
  
  
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment helps keep your skin hydrated from within, making it more elastic and generally more resilient.
  
  
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Refrain from excessive sun exposure or tanning at least 24 hours before waxing, because sunburned skin is more susceptible to irritation and damage.
  
  
• Wear Loose Clothing: On the day of your appointment, wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent friction and allow your skin to breathe post-waxing. Trust us, you’ll be grateful after the waxing is done.
  
  

Post-Waxing Care

After your waxing session, proper aftercare is essential to maintain smooth skin and prevent complications:

• Avoid Heat and Friction: Steer clear of hot baths, saunas, and vigorous physical activity for at least 24 hours post-waxing to prevent irritation.
  
  
• Continue Gentle Exfoliation: Resume gentle exfoliation about two or three days after waxing to prevent ingrown hairs and maintain smooth skin. Ensure the skin has had sufficient time to heal before exfoliating.
   
• Moisturize Regularly: Keep the waxed area moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free lotion to soothe the skin and maintain its softness.
  
  
• Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing loose clothing post-waxing minimizes friction and allows the skin to breathe, reducing the risk of irritation.
  
  

Common Misconceptions About Exfoliation and Waxing

There are plenty of misconceptions about exfoliation and waxing that are important to address:

• Exfoliating Immediately Before Waxing is Beneficial: As we said, exfoliating right before waxing can increase skin sensitivity and lead to irritation, so rather do it about 24-48 hours beforehand.
  
  
• More Frequent Exfoliation Yields Better Results: Over-exfoliating can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness or irritation. Stick to exfoliating two to three times a week, depending on your skin type.
  
  
• All Exfoliants are Suitable for Pre-Waxing: Not all exfoliants are appropriate before waxing - and don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise! Avoid harsh chemical exfoliants or abrasive scrubs that can cause microtears. Rather, opt for gentle exfoliation methods instead.

Closing Thoughts on Exfoliating Before Waxing

Exfoliation is a crucial step in prepping your skin for waxing, helping to remove dead skin cells, improve wax adherence, and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. But, timing and technique are key - exfoliating 24 to 48 hours before your waxing appointment allows your skin to reap the benefits without unnecessary irritation. Choosing gentle exfoliation methods, such as a mild scrub or exfoliating mitt, ensures your skin is prepped without becoming overly sensitive.

Beyond exfoliation, other preparation steps - like maintaining the right hair length, staying hydrated, and avoiding lotions on the day of waxing - can significantly impact your waxing experience. Proper aftercare is just as important, as it helps keep your skin smooth, soothed, and free from irritation. Avoiding heat, friction, and tight clothing post-waxing, along with resuming gentle exfoliation after a few days, will keep your skin in the best possible condition.

FAQs About Exfoliating Before Waxing 

1. Why should I exfoliate before waxing?

Exfoliating before waxing removes dead skin cells, allowing the wax to grip hair more effectively. This will help ensure a cleaner wax with fewer missed hairs and reduces the chances of ingrown hairs after waxing.

2. When should I exfoliate before waxing?

It's best to exfoliate 24 to 48 hours before waxing. This gives your skin time to recover and reduces the risk of irritation during the waxing process. Avoid exfoliating on the same day as your waxing appointment.

3. What type of exfoliation should I use before waxing?

Gentle exfoliation is best. You can use a mild sugar scrub, a soft exfoliating glove, or a chemical exfoliant with AHAs or BHAs. Avoid harsh scrubs or strong acids, as they can make the skin too sensitive.

4. Can I exfoliate after waxing?

Yes, but wait at least 48 hours after waxing before exfoliating again. Your skin will be more sensitive, so using a mild exfoliator can help prevent ingrown hairs without causing irritation.

5. What happens if I exfoliate too close to my waxing appointment?

Exfoliating too soon before waxing can make your skin more sensitive, leading to redness, irritation, and discomfort during and after the waxing process. It can also increase the risk of minor abrasions.

6. Can I exfoliate if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, but use extra-gentle exfoliation methods, such as a soft washcloth or a mild chemical exfoliant. Avoid gritty scrubs and excessive scrubbing, as they can cause irritation.

7. Will exfoliation prevent ingrown hairs after waxing?

Yes! Regular exfoliation before and after waxing helps prevent ingrown hairs by keeping hair follicles clear of dead skin cells. Using a gentle exfoliator and a light moisturiser can further reduce the risk.

8. What should I do if my skin feels irritated after waxing?

If your skin feels irritated, avoid exfoliating, hot showers, and tight clothing for at least 24-48 hours. Apply a soothing gel, like aloe vera or a fragrance-free moisturiser, to help calm the skin.

9. Can I exfoliate if I have a wax booked for my face or bikini area?

Yes, but be even gentler in these areas. For facial waxing, consider using a mild chemical exfoliant instead of a physical scrub. For bikini waxing, avoid any strong exfoliation at least 48 hours before and after to prevent irritation.

10. Do I need to exfoliate before every waxing session?

Yes, regular exfoliation before each waxing session ensures a smoother, more effective wax and helps maintain healthy skin. Just remember to do it 1-2 days in advance to avoid irritation.