When gearing up for your next waxing appointment, whether it's a Brazilian, leg, or arm wax, one crucial step can significantly improve your results—exfoliation. Exfoliating your skin before waxing helps remove dead skin cells, allowing the hair to be more visible and easier to remove, leading to smoother skin for longer. But how do you exfoliate effectively without harming your skin? Here’s a simple guide to get the best out of your pre-wax routine.
Choose the Right Tools for the Job
To begin, invest in a quality exfoliating body scrub. When exfoliating your face, be sure to use a product specifically designed for facial skin, as body scrubs can be too harsh for the more delicate skin on your face. Exfoliating scrubs can be found at most drugstores or beauty shops, but homemade scrubs can also work wonders.
In addition to scrubs, you might want to consider exfoliation tools like dry brushes or exfoliating gloves. Dry brushing can be done before you hop in the shower and is a great way to prep your skin. In the shower, exfoliating gloves or even a simple washcloth can help you work the scrub into your skin. Avoid using loofahs, though—they can harbor bacteria and irritate your skin.
Follow the Right Process
For best results, begin your routine by applying a light oil or moisturizer to your skin, especially if you’re using a dry brush. Start at your feet and work your way up with gentle strokes. Afterward, hop in the shower and apply your body scrub in a circular motion, once again working from your feet upward. If you're using exfoliating gloves or a washcloth, use them to gently buff your skin. Make sure to rinse off with warm water, avoiding hot water, which can dry out your skin.
If you’re prone to breakouts or ingrown hairs, consider using a body wash with salicylic acid after exfoliating. This will help unclog pores and keep your skin clear. After you step out of the shower, pat your skin dry and finish by applying a nourishing moisturizer to lock in hydration.
The Importance of Moisturizing
After exfoliating, moisturizing is key, especially when preparing for waxing. Dry, flaky skin can cause hair to become brittle, increasing the chance that it will break during the waxing process. Broken hair means it won’t be fully removed, and you may need to return for a wax sooner than expected. To extend the time between waxing appointments and keep your skin feeling silky smooth, it’s important to both exfoliate and moisturize regularly in the week leading up to your appointment.
However, be cautious not to exfoliate or moisturize on the day of your wax. Exfoliating too close to your appointment can leave your skin sensitive, making the waxing process more uncomfortable. Similarly, applying lotion before your wax can interfere with the wax’s ability to adhere to the hair, making it harder to remove effectively.
By incorporating regular exfoliation and moisturizing into your skincare routine, you’ll be setting yourself up for the smoothest, longest-lasting waxing results possible. Keep your skin prepped and glowing year-round, and you’ll be ready for any occasion!