Facial waxing is preferred by many to avoid using razors on the face. However, most people might be unaware of the side effects of face waxing. Though it is considered safe, it may cause redness, rashes, pain, and ingrown hairs if not done carefully. This article discusses the side effects of facial waxing and prevention tips. Keep reading to learn more.
In ancient Egypt, a smooth, hairless body defined beauty. Both women and men used a mixture of sugar, honey, and oil to remove the body and facial hair.
The Side Effects Of Facial Waxing
1. Is Painful
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Pulling out the peach fuzz is indeed painful! However, it also depends on your skin type, the type and brand of waxing products, the hair density on your face, the pain tolerance levels, and the area you are waxing. Usually, waxing the upper lip or sensitive skin can be painful.
2. May Cause Rashes
This is a common side effect of facial waxing. The facial skin is delicate compared to the skin on your body. Waxing may cause temporary irritation and fluid-filled blister-like rashes. If the rashes do not go away after 2-4 days, consult your dermatologist. Also, avoid waxing your face and switch to other hair removal techniques.
3. May Cause Redness And Inflammation
Facial waxingmild redness
Freshly waxed skin is sensitive to touch, and these symptoms should subside within a few hours. Apply a soothing gel or cream to your face immediately after waxing. Consider using an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream if you are experiencing redness or irritation. Avoid using products with harsh chemicals for a few days.
4. May Cause Ingrown Hair And Bumps
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If the hair is not removed from roots, it may cause ingrown hairs and bumps on your face. Ingrown hairs occur when the hair shaft breaks or is shaved just below the skin surface, and the hair grows back into the skin instead of outwards of the skin’s surface. These may appear like inflamed bumps after a week of waxing. They can be painful and can cause itching and inflammation.
5. Slight Bleeding
The hair follicles are connected to blood vessels. When you wax and rip the hair out, you may see tiny blood droplets oozing from the pores. This type of trauma is common during waxing. In case you observe abnormal or continuous bleeding, consult your doctor.
6. Adverse Reactions
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Face waxes can cause allergic reactions. You may experience hives, itching, and rashes. Do a patch test to prevent this.
Sindhu, a vlogger, spoke about her negative experience with facial waxing in her vlog. She said, “It started feeling so itchy. I scratched my whole face the entire night. I got so many bumps on my face (i).”
Also, waxing tanned or sunburned skin is not a good idea. It may cause sensitivity and breakouts on the waxed area. Usually, facial waxing does not cause any scars. However, if not done the right way, it may peel the top layer of the skin and cause scarring. Hence, take extra care while waxing your face.
Other common side effects of face waxing include skin irritation, swelling, hyperpigmentation, and dryness, which develop due to the removal of natural oils from the skin. Here are a few tips to prevent any such side effects. Here are a few tips to prevent any such side effects.
How To Prevent The Side Effects Of Facial Waxing
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- Never use body waxes on your face. They may burn or bruise your skin.
- Always read the instructions on the product labels before using facial wax.
- Avoid waxing wounded skin, rashes, or active breakouts to prevent infections.
- Avoid facial waxing if you have sunburnt, dry, or sensitive skin.
- Do not opt for facial waxing if you have recently undergone laser treatment.
- Avoid facial waxing if you are using any prescription topical treatments for acne, age, and dark spots.
An alternative to face wax is a dermaplaning treatment, where a fine blade is used to remove hair and improve skin texture. You can also get a laser bleach treatment.
Here are a few more tips to keep your skin protected during facial waxing.
Tips For Facial Waxing
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- Exfoliate your face a day before waxing to clear all dirt and pollutants. It will help hair make its way through your skin and smoothen the waxing process. Remember to use light, non-harsh scrubs to avoid making the skin more sensitive.
- Post waxing, apply a cold (not frozen) pack to your face for at least 20-30 minutes to reduce pain and inflammation. It should be above 4°C. Applying a soothing gel may also help ease the discomfort.
- When using hot wax, check its temperature before application to prevent burning your skin. You may also test the wax temperature by applying a dab of the wax to the inside of your wrist to make sure it is at a comfortable spreading temperature.
- Always spread the wax evenly and pull it in the direction of the hair growth. This helps the wax adhere properly (for better results) and prevent ingrown hairs and bumps.
- Follow a proper skin care routine and apply face serum a night before doing facial wax.
Wrap a few ice cubes in a cotton cloth and dab on the irritated skin after waxing for a soothing effect. Also, avoid heat exposure, like steaming, saunas, or the sun, for 12-24 hours.
If you are wondering whether facial waxing will make your skin loose, get your answer by checking out the section below!
Does Face Waxing Loosen The Skin?
Although some people believe that waxing your face may make your skin loose and saggy, there is no scientific evidence to back this claim. On the other hand, people may initially feel that their skin looks tighter after waxing because the hair is gone. However, this effect is temporary and has no long-term impact on the skin’s elasticity or firmness. Additionally, excessive waxing may cause skin damage over time. Follow a proper skin care routine before and after waxing in order to keep your skin looking healthy and glowy.
Infographic: 6 Potential Side Effects Of Facial Waxing
While facial waxing might be a better and safer alternative to shaving, it is still painful and comes with its own set of cons. To help you make an informed choice, we have rounded up the side effects of waxing your face in the infographic below. Scroll down to know more!
Face waxing removes facial hair quickly, leaving you with silky, smooth skin. Waxing sensitive facial skin, on the other hand, may also cause minor discomfort and inflammation. Preparing your skin for waxing and caring for it afterward can be as simple as following the recommendations in this article. If you have sensitive skin, you should seek professional assistance. They can help you determine the ideal for your skin type and use the most effective treatments with the fewest adverse effects. We wish you a pain-free and effective waxing session on your next appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does face waxing cause pimples?
Inflammation after waxing may cause pimples and small pus-filled bumps, especially when the skin is sensitive or allergic to the product used.
Does face waxing cause pigmentation?
Yes, face waxing may lead to post-inflammatory pigmentation due to the trauma and improper technique. However, if done properly, waxing should not cause pigmentation issues.
Does waxing face damage skin barrier?
Yes, face waxing can potentially damage the skin barrier. It can cause skin irritation, inflammation, and sensitivity, which can weaken the skin barrier and increase the risk of infections. It’s important to take proper care of the skin after waxing by moisturizing and avoiding harsh skincare products to help restore and maintain the skin barrier.
Can I wash my face after waxing?
It’s best to avoid washing your face immediately after waxing as the skin may be sensitive and prone to irritation. Water and soap can also strip away natural oils and further irritate the skin. Wait at least 24 hours before washing your face after waxing.
Key Takeaways
- Facial waxing can be painful and may cause rashes, ingrown hair, and slight bleeding.
- Avoid applying wax to bruised, wounded, or extremely dry and sensitive skin.
- Exfoliate your face before waxing and apply a cold pack or a soothing gel after waxing.
Illustration: Side Effects Of Facial Waxing
Wondering if facial waxing is safe? Watch the video below for the expert opinion on its side effects and tips on how to make it safe.
Personal Experience: Source
StyleCraze's articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Waxing facial hair | why I stopped after doing it for 7 years | PCOS issues
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yooy5UEvpAY
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