Accidents happen, and knowing how to respond can turn a potential mishap into a minor inconvenience. Here are some practical tips for removing unwanted wax from hair, skin, clothes, and furniture.
How to Remove Wax from Skin
One of the best methods for removing wax from the skin is using a good oil. A non-greasy body oil can be massaged into the skin to remove any lingering wax after using soft wax. For those using sugar paste wax, a moisturizing lotion with soothing ingredients like aloe can cleanse and refresh the skin, leaving it smooth and silky.
Using high-quality wax can minimize cleanup time. Hard wax, which leaves no sticky residue, is easier to clean than soft wax. Professional-grade hard wax adheres only to the hair, making it gentle on the skin. Roll-on waxes are also a no-mess method, perfect for larger body areas.
Steps to Remove Wax from Hair
If wax gets into your hair or a client’s hair, follow these steps:
1. Melt the Wax: Wrap the waxed portion of the hair in paper towels.
2. Heat the Wax: Use a hairdryer on high heat to melt the wax through the paper towel. As the wax melts, it will be absorbed by the paper towels.
3. Repeat: Replace the paper towels with new ones as needed until the wax is removed.
4. Condition: If any wax remains, wet the hair with warm water and apply a quality hair conditioner. Work the wax out of the hair strands with your hands and rinse with running water.
5. Shampoo: If necessary, apply a bit of shampoo to remove any lingering wax. Comb through the hair while rinsing and repeat if needed.
Alternatively, you can massage a small amount of oil into the hair strands and gently comb the wax out before using shampoo.
Removing Wax from Clothes
Depilatory wax can stain clothes. Check the clothing’s care label for laundering instructions. Use a hairdryer to melt the wax and dab the spot with paper towels or a clean cotton towel. At home, you can use an iron with an ink-free paper bag between the iron and the clothes to melt the wax out of the fabric. Keep the iron on low and move the bag periodically to absorb more wax. This method can also remove cold wax from sheets.
How to Remove Wax from Furniture and Other Hard Surfaces
1. Harden the Wax: Rub ice cubes over the wax to make it hard and brittle.
2. Scrape Gently: Use a non-gouging scraper to chip the wax off the surface. A plastic scraper or credit card works well. Avoid metal objects that can scratch surfaces.
3. Melt Remaining Wax: If wax remains in hard-to-reach areas, use a hairdryer to melt it and absorb it with paper towels or an old towel.
Can Wax Damage Furniture or Appliances?
Wax is more likely to damage furniture and appliances through hasty removal that gouges or scratches the surface. Use appropriate tools and techniques to avoid permanent damage. For wooden surfaces, scratches can often be covered with polish, while metal surfaces are harder to repair if scratched.
Takeaway
By learning how to handle wax carefully from the start, you can avoid unnecessary cleanup. Proper handling of hot wax can prevent issues like removing wax from hair or dealing with stains on furniture. Careful and meticulous use of waxing products will save time and reduce stress in your salon.