If you don’t know what to buy, call your local waxing salon and ask what they recommend to their clients. You can probably purchase the product there as well, or look around online. Apply the solution to your skin at least once per day, if not more. Aim to do it when you get out of the shower, before your skin has sweat or anything else on it.
You might need to see a doctor for a prescription. Do not use Retin-A if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. It can cause severe birth defects. [8] X Research source Areas treated with Retin-A are more susceptible to sunburns. Cover up, or wear SPF 45 sunscreen. [9] X Research source Don’t use Retin-A on any areas where you plan to wax in the future. — It can make the skin significantly weaker, leading to potential tearing during a waxing session.
If your skin is sensitive, consider exfoliating on your “off” day from shaving. If your skin handles exfoliation with minimal irritation, try doing it right before you shave.
Shaving against the grain means to move the razor in the direction opposite of hair growth. For instance, most people are shaving against the grain when they run a razor from their ankle to their knee. Shaving with the grain creates less irritation, but not as close a shave. Try to use this technique as much as you can if you’re going back over an area you’ve already shaved.
If you usually shave first, consider reorganizing your shower tasks so that you do it last. Try to give it five minutes before you start shaving. If you don’t have time to shower, wet a washcloth with water that’s as warm as you can stand, and lay it over the area you’re going to shave. Try to leave it for two or three minutes before shaving.
Find a cream that includes aloe or other moisturizing compounds. If you’re in a pinch and have no shaving cream, use hair conditioner instead. It’s better than nothing!
Contrary to the popular myth, cold water doesn’t “close” your pores. The cold temperatures may cause pores to contract slightly, but the effect is only temporary and minimal. There’s no harm in rinsing with cold water, but if you find this step notably unpleasant, you should be able to skip it without much consequence. [15] X Research source
If you do decide to wax, aim to make an appointment every six to eight weeks in the beginning. You might be able to go for longer stretches without waxing later. Choose a reputable waxing salon. Ask around, or search reviews online. Know what to expect. Your skin will probably be a little red and irritated when you leave, but you shouldn’t have open cuts or dark, widespread bruises. Additionally, if you notice that your skin is infected a day or two after your appointment, start applying an antibiotic cream and notify the salon immediately.
Be aware that laser hair removal works best on dark hair and light skin. If your skin and your hair are too close to the same color (whether it’s too light or too dark), you might not be a good candidate for treatment. Laser hair removal is expensive, and you’ll need at least four to six treatments. Price it out and watch for promotions.
