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To avoid the skin appearing darker after waxing, be careful not to expose the treated area to the sun for 48 hours after treatment. Alternatively use a good sun blocker cream on newly treated areas.
Be sure to test a small area of skin first to make sure there is no acute sensitivity or allergic reaction to the process.
Hair should be at least 1/8 inch long. If it isn't wait until it reaches this length.
Be sure to wash the skin thoroughly and dry it well beforehand to remove any lotions or oils which may prevent the wax from adhering closely to the skin.
Heat the wax carefully so as not to overheat and thus burn the skin when applying. Test on a small area first. The consistency should be soft rather than runny.
If pain and discomfort is a main concern use a pain reducing gel or anesthetic numbing spray available from pharmacists. These solutions should be applied 30 to 60 minutes before waxing so the skin is numbed beforehand.
Apply a thin layer of wax in the direction of the hair growth, preferably holding the spatula or tongue depresser at a 45 degree angle as you spread the wax.
When applying the cotton strip over the wax, rub in the same direction as the hair growth leaving about 1/3 of the strip free to allow for a firm grip for a fast back pulling action.
Pull the skin taut before pulling the cotton strip away.
Pull back with a rapid movement close to the skin. Do not pull up or out, rather pull back.
One fast, smooth, pull back is much more effective than a series of light pulls which only increase the pain and leave patchy areas.
For facial hair use wax at a lower temperature than the rest of the body. Use one hand to hold the skin taught. Spread the wax very thinly. Only treat small areas at a time.
Clean the skin with a warm moist towel afterwards to remove excess wax.
Avoid showering and making the hair wet prior to waxing. Hair absorbs the water making it soft and less likely to adhere well to the wax. Tough hair is easier to pull off.
Avoid wearing tight clothing over freshly waxed areas to minimize the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs.
After 24-48 hours exfoliate the skin (with a Loofa sponge for example) to prevent the dead skin from accumulating in areas that can become ingrown such as the bikini line, upper thighs, underarms and calves.
If acne is a problem, wait until the skin has healed before waxing to avoid further irritating this sensitive condition.
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