How to Make Depilatory Wax
Waxing is one of the most effective methods of temporary hair removal. The treatment involves applying a strip of hot or cold wax to the skin and then ripping it off quickly to remove unwanted hair. Since waxing removes the entire hair shaft from below the skin's surface, hair takes between two and six weeks to grow back, depending on the individual. Waxing, particularly hot waxing, is often performed in a salon, but you can save money by making your own depilatory wax using common household ingredients. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Add the sugar, water and lemon juice to a saucepan.
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Place the saucepan over a low heat.
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Heat the ingredients slowly, stirring continuously, until the sugar is completely dissolved into the water and lemon juice. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
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Remove the saucepan from the heat, once the ingredients have combined to make a thick, smooth brown liquid.
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Allow the mixture to cool slightly before use, to avoid burning your skin.
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Tips & Warnings
To use your homemade wax, apply a liberal layer of hand-hot (not scalding) wax to clean, dry skin in the direction of hair growth using a spatula, Popsicle stick or dull butter knife. Place a clean, unbleached cotton cloth strip on top of the wax. Wait a few moments for the wax to cool and set, before yanking off the cotton strip against the direction of hair growth in one quick movement.
Exfoliate the skin with a loofah or body scrub product before waxing to reduce the risk of skin inflammation and ingrown hairs. After waxing, apply ice or cold pure aloe vera gel to the treated area to reduce irritation.
Do not apply very hot wax to your skin.
Do not apply wax inside the ears and nose, on eyelashes, nipples, vaginal/genital areas, or to skin that is irritated, sunburned or broken.
References
- Photo Credit Steve Mason/Digital Vision/Getty Images
