Fitness goals always come first for gorgeous, gorgeous babes. We love that. After all, nothing screams a healthy body and a refreshed mind better than a high-intensity workout or a highly-fulfilling run with your besties.

But, if you’ve managed to sneak a Brazilian wax appointment in your busy-busy schedule, you may want to avoid the post-waxing mistake that can pave a path to inflammation and infections. Read on to know all about it.

WORKING OUT AFTER A BRAZILIAN WAX

Working out is the one post-waxing mistake you must steer clear of. Let’s take a look at the reason that may compel you to wait 24 to 36 hours after your wax appointment to hit the gym.

Waxing removes hair from the root, which leads to micro-wounds in the skin. Your skin will become more sensitive and a little inflamed from the process. You must be wondering, what does that have to do with the “no exercise 24 to 36 hours post-wax rule”?

Well, exercise leads to sweating. And exercising immediately post-appointment can transfer bacteria from the skin into these open micro-wounds through sweat. This puts you at risk of developing infections like pimples and may even lead to a condition where your hair follicles become infected: folliculitis.

And if you thought that was the end of the risks for sweating it out after a wax session, you’ll be in for a surprise. The post-wax workout may also lead to chafing, friction, and all the unpleasant elements that accompany exercise. This can, in effect, cause ingrown hairs. And we all know how stubborn they can be!

Friction and sweat from cardio exercises can also cause unwanted friction on your vagina. Eek, that will be nothing but uncomfortable and painful.

PRO TIP

If you’re big on working out and don’t want to miss out on your gym time, you may want to schedule your Brazilian wax appointment on your “down-time” days to give your body ample time to heal.

If you’re a gym bunny and don’t want to skip a workout session, consider a low-intensity workout. Many women generally prefer to stick to yoga post-wax, but if you’re not into it, consider opting for a low-key lifting day instead.

Basically, any workout that generates relatively less heat and sweat should not cause you much trouble.

RUNNING AFTER A BRAZILIAN WAX

If you’re all about burning the extra calories by sweating it out, you’d be happy to know that running after Brazilian wax is as safe as it can get. Provided you properly take care of the waxed area and give your body a 24-hour wait time to heal, of course.

Remember to wear sunblock and longer shorts to minimize exposure to the harsh rays of the sun. Avoid tight clothing at all costs—it compresses the hair against your body, increasing your chances of getting ingrown hair.

As for that soothing and relaxing post-run shower, be vigilant about aftercare to minimize infections or curb their spread.

HELPFUL TIPS

• No exfoliating until redness or sensitivity in the waxed area subsides.

• Got bumps? Keep your hands away from the area to avoid spreading the infection around. Instead, cleanse the area gently to keep it clean.

• If you’ve noticed that the bumps are the result of ingrown hair, do not exfoliate immediately. Let your skin heal first, then continue your regimen.

• Some medications can change the skin's pH levels, making you more susceptible to post-wax infections and inflammations. It’s always best to be completely transparent about your ongoing medication and treatments to your specialist to enjoy the desired effect post-wax.

• Use ice packs and aloe gel to close up the follicles and reduce swelling. It can help speed up the healing process.

As long as you’re following the proper aftercare steps, you should have a problem-free run or workout post-wax!

THE TAKEAWAY

Sweating after waxing does not bode well for your skin. It makes you susceptible to infections, inflammation, and opens you up to extreme discomfort.

If you’re a workout fiend, it’s best to steer clear of high-intensity workouts for a day or two to avoid the nasties.

On the other hand, running won’t give you as many problems as long as you carry out proper aftercare. So, go ahead and hit the road, babe; we’re rooting for you!