Hair removal may be an industry unto itself today, but its base is in caveman times -- removing hair gave the enemy one less thing to hold onto in battle, and also gave pests fewer places to hide on the body.
The Ancient Egyptians --who viewed a smooth and hairless body as the standard of youth and beauty -- developed a technique called sugaring. They made a sticky paste of beeswax that was applied to the skin, then pressed with a cloth and yanked off, removing the hair beneath. Today, this self-torturous method of hair removal is common practice for women and is becoming more popular for men.
Indeed, according to a recent study, men are having their hair removed at an increasingly growing rate, specifically from their bathing suit area. Whether you're getting a boyzilian or just want to trim your eyebrow hair, there are several things you need to know about getting groomed. Which is why we talked to Fuzz Wax Bar, Toronto's first wax bar dedicated entirely to waxing services for women and men. They provided us with a list of wax myths and truths that you should consider before you head out in your quest to become hairless.
Check out these 12 truths and myths on getting waxed:
Myth: Never Wax The Top Of Your Brows
"Since no two brows are alike waxing a few strays above the brow line can help create a more symmetrical and tidy look. A good wax professional can help you decide what's best for your face."
Myth: You Don't Need To Exfoliate As Waxing Does It For You
According to Fuzz Wax Bar, waxing does not replace exfoliating. "Waxing does exfoliate the first layer of skin, however prepping the skin by washing and exfoliating well is the best way to prevent bumps and ingrown hairs -- before and after your wax."
Myth: Exfoliating Should Only Be Done In The Shower
"Try dry exfoliating! It's a great way to rejuvenate and renew your skin. Use a soft-bristled brush or specially designed mitt to remove dead skin cells, improve blood flow, detox your body and clarify your complexion."
Myth: You Have To Wait For The Hair To Grow Out Really Long Before Waxing
"The hair growth only needs to be ¼ inch for body hair and 1/8 inch for eyebrows." Fuzz Wax Bar notes that "most people will achieve ¼ inch hair growth in as little as two weeks. We recommend waxing every month for your best results."
Myth: Using A Tanning Bed After A Wax Is Okay
"Post-wax, your skin will be more sensitive to sources of heat. Skip the tanning beds for a day or two to avoid burning. And while you're at it the same goes for saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and hot exercise rooms."
Myth: The More You Wax, The Fewer Ingrown Hairs You'll Have
"Ingrown hairs grow below the skin's surface and unless cared for properly can come back after each wax. Exfoliate the skin and use an ingrown hair treatment cream to rid yourself of this pesky problem," advises Fuzz Wax Bar.
Myth: Dry Skin Means Dry Hair
The crew at Fuzz Wax Bar also want us to know what we can do to treat our skin pre-wax. They say that, "If you don't nourish your skin, your body hair will be equally starved for moisture. Dry hair is also more likely to break when waxed, which means it may grow back much quicker, so moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!"
Truth: Waxing Makes Hairs Grow In Fewer And Finer With Each Visit
"Regular waxing will make your hair finer and will also cause it to grow back slower, which means less pain with each visit. Make it your monthly ritual and reap the rewards of a regular wax routine."
Truth: After Waxing Your Pores Are Exposed
"Waxing will cause the pores to open thus leaving the skin slightly vulnerable. The area should be kept clean and nourished with special post-wax lotions to keep the skin smooth and supple."
Truth: Your Skin May Turn Red After Waxing
"Waxing leaves your skin a wee bit sensitive and your skin is likely to appear red. Some individuals may even experience minor swelling. It will go away in a few hours and is completely normal."
Truth: Numbing Creams Can Help Reduce Pain After Waxing
"Applying a numbing cream or taking an aspirin about 30 minutes before your wax appointment can help minimize pain. Remember, if done properly and using the quick waxing method, the ouch-factor should be minimal."
Truth: Waxing Will Keep Your Skin Hair-Free For Weeks At A Time
"When you wax, the hair is removed from the root and should give you hair-free skin for about three weeks on average. New hairs will begin to appear at this point and within a week of regrowth you'll be ready for your next wax."
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