Face waxing is one option that can be done to beautify your appearance by removing fine hair on the face. However, before that, there are several things that you need to pay attention to so that this skin care procedure does not cause side effects.
Waxing can be done on any area of the body, including the face. This method is preferred over other hair removal techniques, such as plucking, shaving or threading.
This is because the waxing process is relatively easy as well as beneficial for removing dead skin cells and making hair grow longer, which is about 3-6 weeks after the procedure.
Face Waxing Side Effects
Generally, face waxing is safe to do, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely risk-free, right? In some cases, face waxing can cause the following side effects:
1. It hurts and bleeds
Pain is one of the unavoidable side effects. This is because during the waxing process, the hair will be removed from the hair follicle. However, the pain experienced by each person can be different, depending on the sensitivity of the skin, the amount of hair, and the area of the face that was waxed.
In addition, waxing can sometimes make the skin bleed a little. In some people, bruising may even appear after the procedure.
Usually, the risk of bleeding and bruising is higher in someone who is taking certain medications, such as anticoagulant drugs, or is experiencing phlebitis, a condition when the blood vessels become inflamed.
However, generally this condition will subside by itself. However, if the pain, bleeding, or bruising after waxing does not subside, don’t hesitate to go to the doctor immediately for further treatment.
2. Irritation
Face waxing can cause irritation. Symptoms can include a red rash and the skin becoming more sensitive to touch or sunlight. These side effects are also generally temporary.
3. Allergic contact dermatitis
In the waxing procedure, wax will be applied to the area of the skin where the hair grows. Well, the liquids and ingredients contained in this wax can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Generally, allergic reactions can be characterized by the appearance of a red rash, itching, and swelling in the area where the wax is applied.
4. Ingrown hair
If after a few days or weeks of waxing you see small, solid bumps resembling pimples, itching, and pain, it could be an ingrown hair . This condition is one of the side effects of waxing procedures whose risks can increase if the hair is not completely pulled out to the roots.
5. Infection
Although rare, face waxing carries a risk of infection in the hair follicles. In medical terms, this condition is called folliculitis .
Infection can occur when the equipment used for waxing is not kept clean. Symptoms that can arise from this condition are red, swollen, itchy, and painful skin; it can even be accompanied by fever.
Safe Face Waxing Tips
Pain, bleeding, and minor irritation from waxing can sometimes be unavoidable. However, other side effects, such as ingrown hair, bruising, and infection, can still be prevented .
To reduce the risk of the side effects mentioned above, choose a specialized waxing salon that is trusted and keeps the wax equipment clean. However, if you want to wax yourself at home, use a wax specially formulated for the face.
Before applying to the face area, you should apply wax to the arm or back of the neck first, then wait a while and watch if there is an allergic reaction.
If it appears, do not continue the waxing process. However, if not, you may continue the waxing process with the following steps:
- Wash your face first, then pat dry. Apply the wax in the direction your hair is growing, stick a strip of cloth or paper over it, and let it sit for a few seconds.
- Avoid applying wax on the surface of the skin that has warts or moles .
- After that, pull quickly in the direction opposite to the direction of hair growth.
- Cold compresses on the waxed face area to soothe the skin and avoid washing your face with hot water.
- Apply an oil-free and water-based ( non – comedogenic ) moisturizer.
- Use sunscreen and a hat when outdoors to prevent exposure to direct sunlight.
Although waxing is generally safe, there are some conditions that prevent you from undergoing this skin treatment procedure, namely:
- Are on treatment with retinoids
- Are there acne, wounds, too dry, irritated, or sunburn on the face skin
- Suffering from chronic skin disease, circulatory problems, or diabetes
Face waxing can indeed make face skin smoother and free of hair. However, make sure you do it the right way to avoid harmful side effects.
If after face waxing there is irritation that does not go away or you experience symptoms of infection, immediately consult a doctor so that treatment can be given.
Reviewed by: dr. Merry Dame Cristy Pane
