About Waxing

The use of wax to remove unsightly hair from our bodies is not a modern phenomenon. In fact, ancient Egyptian women used a sugary wax-like substance to keep their bodies hair-free. Despite advances in hair removal technology, women have not yet abandoned waxing as a reliable and effective beauty treatment. From re-shaping eyebrows to eliminating hair growth at the bikini line, waxing is often a slightly painful but highly necessary feminine ritual.

Function

Waxing is an effective method to remove large amounts of hair quickly. For women with sensitive skin, waxing is a safe and semi-permanent alternative to depilatories, laser hair removal and electrolysis. Areas that are subject to waxing are eyebrows, upper lip, underarms, cheeks, bikini areas, legs, abdomen and feet. Waxing is a form of epilation. Hair removal begins at the follicle, below the skin's surface.

Types

There are two types of waxing: sugaring or the use of paraffin and beeswax. Both methods use the same application procedures: a thin layer of wax, hot or cold, is applied to clean skin removes the hair. A thin cloth strip made of muslin, is then pressed firmly into the wax. The strip is then ripped quickly away from the skin---in a direction opposite from hair growth--to remove the hair.

Time Frame

Hair removal via waxing lasts between two to eight weeks. Although waxing can be painful and uncomfortable, the results last typically longer that using depilatories, tweezing or shaving. In some cases, waxing a specific area repeatedly results in permanent hair removal. Because swelling and redness is often a side effect of waxing, women are recommended to wax their face several days in advance of special events or when sitting for a professional portrait.

Considerations

Epilatory waxes are widely available for home use, but many states requires estheticians or a cosmetology license to apply waxing methods in salons. First time wax users should test for allergic reactions, before proceeding with a lengthy waxing session. Avoid waxing areas that contain moles, warts, lesions and cuts in the skin. Refrain from waxing hair around the genitals, or in the ears or nose.

Warning

Waxing removes hair below the skin. Men and women susceptible to infection should not apply wax to their hair. If you suffer from circulatory problems or diabetes, eliminate waxing as a viable hair removal method.
Wax can burn skin if applied too soon after the heating process. Side effects from waxing may include: minor bleeding and ingrown hairs. Redness, inflamed skin and soreness can result from frequent waxing or an allergic reaction to the product.