Waxing underarms is a popular beauty regimen that many individuals follow to achieve smooth, hair-free skin. While many advocate for professional services to ensure safety and effectiveness, understanding the process can be beneficial for both seasoned professionals looking to refine their skills and individuals unable to access professional services. This guide outlines the essential steps and considerations for waxing underarms, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for a successful waxing session.
Preparing for Underarm Waxing
The first step in the waxing process is ensuring you have all the necessary supplies. This includes high-quality wax, a pre-wax cleanser, post-waxing cream, cotton rounds for application, tongue depressors for wax application, and cornstarch powder. The cornstarch powder is particularly useful for absorbing any moisture in the underarm area, ensuring the wax adheres properly to the hair.The wax should have a honey-like consistency, indicating it is at the perfect temperature for application. If the wax is too hot, it risks burning the skin, while wax that's too cool may not spread effectively or grip the hairs well. Achieving the right consistency is crucial for a smooth waxing experience.
The Waxing Process
Before applying wax, the underarm area must be cleaned using a pre-wax cleanser and dried thoroughly. Any residue from deodorants or body products should be removed to allow the wax to adhere to the hair correctly. After cleansing, a light dusting of cornstarch powder can be applied to absorb any remaining moisture.When applying wax, use a tongue depressor to spread the wax in the direction of hair growth, starting from the top of the underarm. Apply pressure to ensure the wax coats the hairs adequately, and then create a small 'lip' at the end of the application area. This lip serves as a starting point for removing the wax strip. After applying, allow the wax to cool and harden slightly before removal.
To remove the wax, ensure the skin is held taut to minimize discomfort. Grip the wax at the lip and pull in the opposite direction of hair growth in a quick, swift motion. Immediately after removal, apply pressure to the area to help soothe any discomfort.
Aftercare and Considerations
Following the waxing session, apply a post-waxing cream to soothe the skin and reduce any potential irritation. It's recommended to avoid applying deodorant, engaging in activities that induce sweating, or exposing the area to intense heat or sunlight for at least 24 hours to allow the skin to heal and the pores to close.For individuals new to waxing or those with sensitive skin, it's advisable to wax the underarms several times before a significant event to ensure the skin adjusts to the process. Regular waxing sessions can lead to thinner and finer hair regrowth, making each session progressively less painful and more efficient.