How Much Does Waxing Hurt? How to Reduce Discomfort
Waxing is the perfect solution for all long-lasting hair removal needs, but one thing always seems to make people hesitate – whether or not they believe the process to be painful.
We’re not here to lie: waxing does cause a variable level of discomfort, based on personal pain tolerance. However, there are ways to manage that discomfort, and the experience is totally worth facing your fears!
Why you should get waxed regardless of discomfort
Removing unwanted hair via hard wax or soft wax is going to be slightly uncomfortable. That's just the truth of it. Although the process isn't pain-free, there are certainly a few reasons why participating will still benefit you in the long run.
Pain tolerance is different person to person
The truth is, the reality of how painful waxing is will be different from person to person. While one person may see waxing as a cakewalk, another may find the process to be rather uncomfortable. The only way you’ll know if waxing is something that bothers you or not is if you try it out for yourself. More likely than not, the feeling is completely manageable and you’ll love the results!
Waxing is temporary discomfort
In the event that the process of pulling hair directly from the hair root is slightly uncomfortable, you can find peace in knowing that the discomfort is temporary. Within a matter of minutes, any type of pain from the process of removing wax from the skin will be over. Additionally, not only is the process nothing more than a slight sting, you can further mitigate discomfort through the use of mild pain medications and cooling aftercare techniques.
The benefits vastly outweigh the discomfort
The promise of smooth, hair free, exfoliated skin for weeks at a time is well worth any discomfort that’s felt in the few minutes following your wax. Not only will waxing mean that you won't have to remove your body hair as often, it also means that your hair regrows slower, thinner, and sparser than it has before with repeated sessions.
How you can make yourself more comfortable for waxing
The best way to prepare for your waxing appointment is to, well, be prepared! Below we’ve outlined the best ways to set yourself up for success, and make sure that you’re ready to have the best waxing experience possible. The more confident you are, the more comfortable you’ll be. That plays a role in what your overall experience is like, too!
Come to your appointment clean and sanitized
The first step in being prepared is to come to your appointment freshly bathed and ready to go. In the event that your appointment is in the middle of the day, or following a gym session, try to make sure that the area getting waxed is as fresh and clean as possible.
Have your hair at a short but manageable length
Any new growth or regrowth should be at least a quarter of an inch long. Too short and the wax could fail to successfully bind to the hair strand altogether. If you think your hair is a bit longer than it should be, don’t worry! Don’t run the risk of trimming too short. Your esthetician has the knowledge to decide what’s best for you on the day of your session.
Exfoliate yourself in preparation for your waxing appointment
Exfoliating your skin ensures that any buildup of dead skin or dry skin is removed prior to your wax. Not only will this help clear the skin of dirt and debris, it will also make sure that the wax can effectively bind to the hairs. Somewhere between 24 to 48 hours before your appointment is the ideal time to exfoliate the area of your body you plan to get waxed.
If you are worried about your pain tolerance, take ibuprofen
Sensitive skin is a valid concern for many individuals. If pain is a side effect that you’re extra sensitive to, there is the option to take a mild, non-acetaminophen pain reliever such as ibuprofen. Not only will this help manage your level of discomfort but, it can also reduce swelling and redness immediately following your wax.
Avoid drinking stimulants such as coffee or alcohol
Although enjoying a nice cup of coffee, or a simple drink after work can be a relaxing staple for your day, the truth is that these beverages can increase your skin’s level of sensitivity. We recommend avoiding alcohol and caffeine for the 24 hours before your appointment.
Make sure you are going to an experienced esthetician
Last, but certainly not least, is the reality that who you choose to wax your skin is going to have a big impact on how well your session goes. Professionally trained and skilled estheticians will know how to wax efficiently and effectively, resulting in minimal discomfort and proper aftercare instructions.
The Wax Room eases any worry about waxing you have!
Regardless of your experience level in waxing, you’ll find that you’re in good hands here at The Wax Room. We are on a mission to help all women feel empowered, in charge of their bodies, and confident to get waxed. For a list of services, and to book your appointment, visit our website!