We believe that it is our job to make waxing as painless and enjoyable as possible, it’s never going to be a complete joy but there’s no need for it to be a pain in the ass either!
We pride ourselves on using the best quality products along with correct technique. We want to provide you with the safest and most hygienic waxing experience possible. Here are some of the common questions we get asked:
Are there any reasons why I can't get waxed?
You are using oral retinoids such as Accutane, topical prescription strength retinoids and some antibiotics.
Your skin is broken/damaged/inflamed, sunburnt, has received recent laser or chemical peel treatments.
You are currently battling a cold sore or treating any active/current STIs.
You are diabetic (unless you have a letter from your doctor clearing you for waxing).
Please be aware that we may not be able to proceed with your wax if we feel that any of the above apply to you.
What if I have a bad reaction?
All skin is different and can react in many different ways to waxing. As professionals, we do our best to assess the integrity of your skin in order to minimize the risks of adverse reactions. Adverse reactions are more common for those new to or irregular with waxing. The most common post waxing reactions will subside within 24 hours, these can include:
Redness
Slight localized inflammation
Itchiness
Localized hives
Heat
Sensitivity/tenderness
If any of these reactions persist for longer than 24 hours, please let us know.
What if I find an area of lifted skin or a tear in my skin?
While we do our utmost to avoid any complications such as skin lifting or tearing, they can still occur occasionally. We will notify you if we are aware that this has happened and will give you tips on how to take care of the affected area. If you discover any lifts or tears after your wax that you were not made aware of, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can follow up with you.
Facial Waxing
I think I broke out after my wax, why did this happen and what can I do?
When skin is waxed, your skin’s natural barrier, the acid mantle, is also removed. The acid mantle functions to protect skin and prevent bacteria from getting in. This barrier takes about 24 hours to recover; during this time bacteria can be introduced very easily when you touch your face. This is what causes the little pimple like reaction that many people experience after facial waxing. We apply aftercare (silver solution) that can provide some mild antimicrobial protection. We also urge you to only touch your face with freshly washed hands during this period. Between keys, door handles and especially cell phones, our hand carry a ton of bacteria. Bottom line - fingers are filthy, so keep your mitts off!
Bikini Waxing
How should I prepare for my bikini wax?
Please arrive for your wax with clean, unmoisturized skin. If you are coming after work, we have personal wipes available for you to freshen up.
We recommend that you gently exfoliate the area the night before waxing and refrain from exfoliating on the day of your wax.
We don’t recommend waxing straight after working out. You'll be more sensitive and your skin can be hotter, more fragile and you may still be sweating; this can affect how the wax works.
Will it hurt?
Everyone has different pain awareness, however, when done correctly, waxing is pulling hair out at the root so there is a level of discomfort associated with it but we try our best to minimize it at all times.
If you are concerned about pain, you can take an over the counter painkiller such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen 30 minutes before your appointment. A stiff drink can also help to relax you, but please no more than one; alcohol can thin the blood making it more likely for your follicles to bleed! Numbing creams and gels can also interfere with the wax and can affect your skin so they are not recommended.
We promise that it won’t be that bad! Try to relax, the anticipation is always much worse than reality.
How long does my hair need to be?
Ideally hair should be ¼ to ½ an inch long, if it is longer or shorter it is more likely to break, we know this sounds very precise but that’s the sweet spot. If you have been shaving, this will be approximately 1-2 weeks of growth depending on how fast your hair grows. If you do need to trim, you can do so at home by either using a fine toothed comb to lift the hair and guard your skin from the scissors, by twisting small sections of hair and trimming or by using an electric beard/bikini trimmer. Aim for ½ an inch as longer is better than shorter.
Can I be waxed on my period?
We are more than happy to wax you while you are on your period, we simply ask that you freshen up and use a clean tampon prior to your wax. If you are not comfortable being waxed while on your period, we ask that you please give us the courtesy of rescheduling your appointment at least 24 hours prior to your appointment.
POST waxing CARE
Do I need to apply and creams or lotions after my wax?
We will apply appropriate after care when I complete your wax to help to soothe and protect your freshly waxed skin. If you are new to waxing you may be experiencing a slight histamine reaction, tenderness and/or heat; you can relieve this with a cold compress. Unless we advise you to, we don’t recommend applying any creams, lotions or ointments.
Can I work out right after getting waxed?
We don't recommend working out straight after waxing as the skin is much more sensitive and more open to bacteria. Sweat is basically food for bacteria, combine that with heat, friction and tight clothes and you have a recipe for unnecessary irritation!
We also recommend that you avoid the following for 24 hours post wax:
Hot tubs, swimming pools, saunas, etc.
Intimate, ahem, activities
Tight pants
Prolonged sitting, such as a long flight
UV exposure, either sunbathing or tanning beds
The rule of thumb is cool, clean and dry for the first 24 hours.
After 24 hours
To prevent ingrown hairs we recommend gently exfoliating the area with an AHA/BHA such as glycolic and salicylic acid; depending on the strength, either daily or several times a week; apply to the top and sides of the bikini area, avoiding the more intimate areas and your labia. If you are prone to ingrown hairs and suffer from the swollen and sore red and inflamed ones, you can use an over the counter 1% hydrocortisone twice a day for up to a week. This will help to take down the inflammation. Once the inflammation is out or if you have the “gooey” ones, 5% benzoyl peroxide can help kill the bacteria, remember that this can bleach clothing so make sure you're not wearing your favorite knickers! Once they have dried up you can gently remove any visible ingrown hairs with some clean (wiped with alcohol) tweezers and tissue but it’s best to leave them for your aesthetician. Try not to pick, there’s a whole other world living under your nails!
Over time, hair will become finer and sparser with regular waxing, it will also be a less painful experience. We recommend getting waxed every 4-5 weeks when hair is at the optimal length so that we can give you the best results. Each follicle produces 1-3 hairs and grows on different cycles. Due to this, especially if you have been shaving, your first wax won’t produce the best result, you may even have some stubble coming through, this is normal. It will take time and consistency but it’s totally worth it. Usually by your third or fourth wax, you’ll start to reap the benefits.
Try to avoid shaving between waxes, if you must tidy up before wearing a swimsuit, try to stick to the sides only and leave the rest to us.