Can You Get Waxed With Keratosis Pilaris?

There’s nothing better than the independence that comes with doing the little things that bring you joy. Sometimes it’s about sticking to a routine, watering your plants and your higher self – a little emotional maintenance, physical maintenance, or staying keen to avoid social jetlag. Whether it’s a weekly plant swap or getting your eyebrows done, some things just remain a part of your regimen, no questions asked. 

If your dermatologist has recently diagnosed you with keratosis pilaris, or you’re about to get waxed and you’ve had this condition your whole life, we’re here to guide you through it!

What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition that causes rough patches, and small bumps on the upper arms, buttocks, and thighs. These bumps, which are typically white or red in appearance, don't hurt or create much of a ruckus. It's typically self-treatable, but connecting with your dermatologist for more troubleshooting is always a good idea. Sometimes referred to as "chicken skin", Keratosis Pilaris affects three million people, making it a relatable skin condition to many.

What causes keratosis pilaris?

There are so many common skin conditions that impact people of all skin types, challenging their norms and making the typical things in life a little more difficult to navigate. Keratosis pilaris is caused by a buildup of keratin, a hard protein. Keratin works to keep the skin protected from infection or harmful substances, but this backfires when an overproduction of keratin occurs. Keratin protein creates a barrier between hair follicles, creating bumpy, rougher patches of skin.

Symptoms associated with keratosis pilaris

If you have keratosis pilaris, you may experience symptoms like dry, rougher skin, often with bumps. Seasonal changes, like lower humidity, can also trigger dry skin and bumps that feel like sandpaper. Also referred to as strawberry skin, you may notice a pink or red hue around the bumps, and depending on things like allergies or other environmental factors, irritable skin in general.

Waxing with keratosis pilaris

Waxing with keratosis pilaris doesn't have to be a worrisome, scary experience. In fact, the level of exfoliation your skin will experience can help minimize the built-up keratin, smoothing your skin in the process.

Is it safe to wax over keratosis pilaris?

Because keratosis pilaris creates a different texture and growth pattern of the skin, many people worry that there are consequences to waxing with the condition. Of course, this could not be farther from the truth, and we’re glad to walk you through it.

Are there any extra precautions you should know about?

Some people report experiencing a lot of ingrown hairs post-wax. So once your skin is no longer irritated, about 24 to 48 hours after your waxing appointment, feel free to gently exfoliate when you’re in the shower. And don’t forget to lather on the moisturizer when you’re done.

Best ways to prevent ingrowns with keratosis pilaris

Waxing is one of the best ways to exfoliate your body. This method of hair removal does it all. When you get waxed, it's not just hair that's being pulled away from your skin. Dead skin cells and build-ups of sebum and oil are stripped with it. So in the long term, a consistent waxing regimen can serve as an added benefit.

Exfoliate before and after

If you’re living with keratosis pilaris, you’re more prone to ingrown hairs than the average person. One of the best things you can do to keep ingrowns at bay is to maintain a consistent exfoliation schedule. At The Wax Room, we offer a body scrub that specifically helps clients alleviate and target keratosis pilaris, the fur KP body scrub. 

Exfoliating about 48 hours before your wax session helps with the skin of dead skin cells, gives the cells an opportunity to form a healthy new coat, and also works to knock ingrown hairs loose. After your waxing appointment, once you give your skin a chance to calm down, you can gently exfoliate and moisturize.

Use a recommended ingrown hair serum

Ingrown hairs happen to the best of us, and the good news is, modern skincare has never been better. If you’re struggling with ingrown, consider using a serum post wax to help with inflammation, and to keep your skin in a calm, resting state.

Applying the serum twice a day can help even your skin tone, reduce the appearance of those tiny bumps and even support the proper production of melanin, leaving hyperpigmentation behind.

For the best waxing experience, book with The Wax Room

If you’re ready to pop on in for your next wax experience, The Wax Room would be honored to have you. With experts in every area of skincare, we’re ready to support you in making choices for your skin that feel good, physically, too. Head over to our website if you’re ready to book your appointment. We’ll see you so soon!