What’s the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions ‘waxing?’ Be honest- are you cringing already? To many, the word alone can offer a sense of fear, a feeling of pain, or possibly a reminder of the old saying ‘beauty is pain.’ While we all want smooth, stubble-free legs for the summer months, the pain associated with waxing causes many to avoid this experience and its benefits.

Whether you’re an expert when it comes to waxing, or are just being introduced to the idea, you are in for a treat. We’re about to reveal some great tips to help reduce the pain associated with waxing. The following article from About.com provides the top ten dos and don’ts to help relieve waxing pain.

Reduce Waxing Pain — Top Ten Do’s and Don’ts

Reduce waxing pain? Yes you can! The first time getting waxed in an area hurts the most and does get less painful each time after. Hard to believe when your hair has just been ripped out for the first time, but it’s true. Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce waxing pain, whether you have been waxed before or not.

1. Do dull the nerves

Prior to waxing apply something to numb the skin like No Scream Cream. Take an aspirin or ibuprofen about 30 – 45 minutes before your wax. This is especially helpful when getting waxed above the lip, chest, bikini and genital areas- which top the list as the most pain-provoking areas.

2. Do seek a professional

It doesn’t mean just anybody licensed (like an esthetician or cosmetologist), but someone also experienced. They will use the wax best suited for the hair, apply the right thickness of wax, hold the skin taut, and pull in the right direction. Important for any waxing but more crucial when receiving a bikini wax, especially a brazilian. More Info…

3. Do reduce acidity

Smoking and regular caffeine and alcohol consumption creates a lot of acid in the body’s system. You might benefit from taking something like Tums 20 minutes before your service to reduce acidity and therefore reduce skin’s sensitivity.

4. Do use a body scrub

While the skin on the face is generally exfoliated enough in terms of waxing, the body needs a little extra help. A somewhat gritty body scrub will help rid dead cells around skin pores and hair follicle, providing an easier exit. Made for use before waxing, try Relax and Wax Scrub Me Luscious Lemon Drop which won’t leave the skin greasy or oily and helps prevent ingrown hair.

5. Don’t apply astringent or toner

These tighten the pores and can make a firmer hold on the hair follicle. So hold off right before waxing.

6. Don’t use ice for numbing

You might think that ice would be great to numb skin and reduce waxing pain. But applying anything cold to the skin tightens pores. It’s the same principle as above, we want pores nice and relaxed.

7. Don’t drink a lot of caffeine or alcohol

While having a couple glass of wine or beer before getting waxed sounds like a great idea, stimulants in the system can cause skin to be extra sensitive to waxing. Give yourself a couple hours after drinking coffee or alcohol before getting waxed. Instead, drink a lot of water to hydrate your body and skin.

8. Don’t think waxing at home will be easy

It’s hard to do on yourself, and will really hurt if you don’t know what you’re doing.

9. Don’t tense up

Some people hold their breath or tense their whole body while getting waxed. While it might be easier said than done, breathe deeply, a relaxed person will cope much better with the pain.

10. Don’t wax where you shouldn’t

The inside of ears and nose, eyelashes, nipples and male genitals shouldn’t be waxed. Don’t try waxing over sun-burned or irritated skin, warts, moles, cuts or pimples. Not only is it dangerous, but it could give you some mighty big pain.

Waxing is a great way for both men and women to remove unwanted hair from various parts of their body. Waxing is low-maintenance and quick and shouldn’t be avoided due to fear. Prior to waxing, follow these tips to ensure your wax goes as smoothly (pun intended!) and pain-free as possible. You’ll soon discover that waxing is much more pleasant when you’re well-prepared.

If you live in or around Ashland, Massachusetts and are interested in waxing, please take a look at the Richard Francis Spa services menu. For more information on our waxing services, contact us today! We’d love to help answer any of your questions.