Wax Breakouts
We're not going to sugar coat it; waxing can be painful- and it becomes very annoying when it follows with a wax breakout. It's incredibly unpleasant if you've just had your Peach waxed. Like, who wants to get acne or skin inflammation right after you've set yourself up for clear, smooth skin?
So, should you keep getting waxed even if you have to deal with ugly whiteheads that can be painful? Of course! There are numerous ways to avoid wax breakouts!
And not to worry, babe, you are not alone. Wax breakout is a common problem, and in this post, we'll explain why it happens, how to prevent it, and treat it.
So what are we waiting for... let's get started!
WHY WAX BREAKOUTS HAPPEN
Bear this in mind babe, the actual waxing procedure or aftercare can trigger a wax breakout.
During a wax, a part of the top layer of skin may be removed, leaving your pores open. During this time, anything that comes into contact with the area, including calming agents, may induce pimples.
After you've had waxing done, bacteria can get into the open pores of your skin, which can make you break out. They can be small bumps, whiteheads, or huge monsters. Hopefully not the last option!
A week or two after you have waxed, if you start to get bumps, they may be caused by ingrown hairs. An ingrown is formed when hair grows back downward instead of upward.
Getting waxed can make you break out and get itchy for several reasons:
Not following proper aftercare
Allergies to the wax or your skin being too sensitive
Touching the area
Even getting a mild burn (this is why low temperature wax should always be used for those sensitive areas!)
Lucky for you, there are ways to keep your skin clear and smooth after you've had a wax.
PREVENT
The easiest and most effective way to keep bumps from forming after waxing is to keep your freshly waxed area clean and avoid exfoliating for the first 3-5 days after your wax appointment.
For the seven to ten days prior to waxing, refrain from utilizing retinol-based skincare products. The risk of skin injury from waxing is increased while using these products.
Makeup should be avoided before waxing and should be avoided for the remainder of the day.
Apply aloe vera gel to the skin after you have waxed (our go to aftercare gel is Booty Beauty Skincare’s Soothe Operator).
Avoid using products that have "actives," like glycolic acid or retinol, right after you've had your hair removed.
When you wash your face, don't scrub or rub the skin with a towel. This will make freshly waxed skin even more irritated.
WAX BREAKOUT RESCUE
Home or natural remedies may help you if you're still having trouble with an itch or a rash.
Want to know the best part? Some of the ingredients for these DIY treatments may already be in your kitchen or medicine cabinet, so you don't need to buy new ones. If not, you should be able to find them at your pharmacy.
Sugar scrub: It can help soothe your skin and keep ingrown hairs from forming. Mix with coconut or olive oil to make your own. Make sure you apply a small amount to the area that needs to be cleaned. GENTLY scrub in a circle. You might find that exfoliating your skin every day is too harsh, so start by exfoliating every other day. Oh and don’t forget to moisturizer after you exfoliate!
Aloe vera: If you have aloe vera gel, all you need to do to enjoy its healing properties. When you have a sore spot, apply some of the aloe vera onto the spot and gently massage it into your skin to help relieve the pain. This can be repeated up to three times daily.
Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil can also help calm any skin that has just been waxed. Don't use this remedy if your skin is still inflamed after waxing. The tea tree essential oil should be mixed with a carrier, like olive or coconut oil, before putting it on your skin to make it less potent.
Witch hazel: Witch hazel has astringent and antiseptic properties, so it can be used to treat wounds. If you have a wax breakout, it can calm you down and stop them from coming back. Putting pure witch hazel extract on your skin as often as three times a day will help.
Apple cider vinegar: Another natural antiseptic is apple cider vinegar, which is also good for your body. Make a cotton pad with apple cider vinegar and apply it to the inflamed area three times a day for faster healing.
THE TAKEAWAY
Not to worry, babe, wax breakouts can be entirely avoided. Take the time to find a good wax bar, follow the aftercare instructions, and be careful about what touches your skin after you get waxed.
And if you have experienced a breakout during your previous wax, don't be afraid to try again. Repeat your session 1 or 2 more times and watch how your skin adjusts to your next wax appointment. Good luck!
