Can You Shower After Waxing?

After treating yourself to a waxing appointment, it's essential to properly care for your skin in order to avoid adverse reactions. You might wonder if certain parts of your daily routine–like taking a shower–will affect your sensitive post-wax skin. 

While waxing is one of the most popular hair removal methods out there, you’ll find plenty of conflicting advice about aftercare. If you’re searching for answers, you’re in the right place! Join us as we discuss the dos and don’ts of waxing aftercare as well as the best time to shower following your appointment. 

What to do following a wax

Whether you opt for a Brazilian wax or you’re just removing unwanted hair from your upper lip, you need to ensure that you give your skin a little extra TLC. Here are a few tips for waxing aftercare:

Avoid friction and workouts

Friction and sweat are two things you’ll need to avoid in the days following your waxing appointment. Tight clothing can cause major irritation and increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Meanwhile, sweat and higher temperatures can promote the growth of harmful bacteria that shouldn’t have access to your sensitive skin and open pores. We suggest wearing loose-fitting clothes for at least a day or two.

Don’t go swimming in pools or at the beach

Just because a swimming pool is treated with chlorine doesn’t mean it’s free of bacteria. Both pools and open water can harbor pretty nasty microorganisms. To protect your skin after waxing, avoid swimming for 24 to 48 hours. 

Exfoliate 48 hours after your wax

Once any inflammation has calmed down, you’ll need to start exfoliating your freshly waxed skin to prevent ingrown hairs. As always, treat your skin with care to avoid irritation. Continue regularly exfoliating between waxing sessions to ensure your next appointment is as effective as possible. 

Use post-wax-friendly moisturizer 

After your waxing appointment, the right moisturizer will keep your skin supple and hydrated. It will soothe irritation and also reduce the risk of pesky ingrown hairs. It’s best to stick to unscented products, and if you’re fighting redness and inflammation, consider adding pure aloe gel to your skincare routine until it subsides. 

Why should you avoid showering immediately after waxing? 

You might be tempted to hop in the shower after your waxing appointment, but we suggest holding off. For the best results, wait 24 hours. If you can’t wait until the following day, give your skin at least several hours to breathe. Here’s why this is so important:

Bacteria can damage freshly waxed skin

Waxing skin results in open pores and hair follicles, which are more susceptible to harmful bacteria. This is why it’s absolutely essential to avoid taking a bath or going swimming. Increased body temperature can also promote bacterial growth, so use your appointment as an excuse to take it easy for a couple of days. 

Your skin may be a bit sensitized from your wax

A hot shower can also cause major discomfort and lead to greater irritation. Additionally, it can further dry out your skin. After getting waxed, keeping your skin properly hydrated should be at the top of your priority list. This is where that post-wax-friendly moisturizer can help you out!

If you do end up needing a shower, do the following

We understand that it isn’t always possible to avoid showering after your waxing appointment. If you must rinse off right away, wait at least two or three hours and follow these instructions:

Use cold or lukewarm water

Hot water is more likely to irritate your skin after a waxing session, so cold or lukewarm water is a better choice. Opting for cooler temperatures will also inhibit bacterial growth and reduce the risk of infections. 

Stay away from irritating products

You might consider a cool water rinse rather than a full-on shower, especially if you’re cleaning up shortly after your waxing appointment. Many body washes contain fragrances and other irritating ingredients that won’t help your skin heal. Instead, stick with natural soaps and non-scented products to ensure you don’t cause further inflammation. 

Don’t exfoliate in the shower

You’ll want to begin exfoliating about 48 hours after your hair removal appointment to avoid ingrown hairs. However, sloughing off dead skin cells too soon can increase discomfort and damage your skin. 

After your cool shower, be sure to gently pat the treatment area dry with a soft, clean towel rather than rubbing your sensitive skin. 

The Wax Room has the answers to your waxing questions!

The Wax Room is the premier hair removal studio in the greater Phoenix area. We’re dedicated to helping our clients achieve smooth, hair-free skin in a welcoming environment!

Contact us today or schedule an appointment online to get started. We can’t wait to work with you!