For centuries, people have utilized natural remedies, such as clove oil, to alleviate pain and discomfort. Fortunately, we’ve come a long way since the days of unreliable DIY analgesics. We now live in a time of indulgence when it’s possible to soothe the discomfort caused by our favorite epilation method. Learn why a topical numbing cream for Brazilian wax appointments is a must-have for your clients and how it can drastically improve comfort during waxing.
What is numbing cream for a Brazilian wax?
Often used during more intensive procedures like laser hair removal, numbing cream is an excellent addition for your clients’ Brazilian waxing appointments.
How does it work?
Numbing cream temporarily blocks nerve signals in the skin, so they can’t communicate discomfort to the brain. It doesn’t eliminate all sensations, but your clients should only feel a mild pressure or tugging instead of the sharp sting usually associated with waxing.
What ingredients make numbing cream work?
Many topical numbing creams and sprays contain 4% to 5% lidocaine. Others may use benzocaine, prilocaine, or tetracaine, along with vasoconstrictors like epinephrine.
Consider purchasing professional-strength, FDA-approved numbing creams and sprays made with Brazilian waxing in mind.
How long does it take for numbing cream to work?
In most cases, numbing cream will begin to work within 20 to 30 minutes, reaching peak efficacy around 45 to 60 minutes after application. Depending on your chosen formulation, the effects generally last one to two hours.
As an esthetician or waxing specialist, you’ll need to communicate with your clients before each appointment to avoid scheduling conflicts. If clients want you to apply a numbing cream or spray, they must arrive 30 to 45 minutes before their session begins. Alternatively, they can purchase an over-the-counter product from their pharmacy and apply it at home.
Related: Does a Brazilian Wax Hurt?
Advantages of using numbing cream during a Brazilian wax
Ready to learn how a numbing cream can make Brazilian waxing more comfortable for your clients? Here are just a few of the perks:
Reduces discomfort
Pain relief is the most obvious benefit of numbing cream during a Brazilian or bikini wax. Despite a perfect technique and the use of a gentle hard wax, some clients simply have a lower pain tolerance than others, and this additional step can go a long way to making the hair removal process more comfortable.
Eases anxiety
New clients and those with sensitive skin may feel nervous or anxious about upcoming waxing sessions, but knowing that their hair removal expert is prepared to help can soothe those jitters and instill confidence in your customers.
Improves the waxing experience
By relieving the discomfort of waxing, your clients can focus less on pain management and more on their silky-smooth skin! In turn, they may be more likely to return for follow-up appointments to maintain their results indefinitely.
Better results
A numbing cream before a Brazilian wax doesn’t just reduce sensitivity. It also enhances the overall results. Each time your clients flinch or tense their bodies during a waxing session, it increases resistance and the risk of breakage. But numbing cream diminishes this response, so your clients can achieve long-lasting results.
Soothes sensitive skin
A numbing cream with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile can soothe the skin before any irritation occurs, making it less reactive to the heat and tugging it endures.
Minimizes inflammation
Since numbing cream limits nerve activity, it may reduce the redness, swelling, and inflammation that appear during a Brazilian wax. You can maximize this effect by incorporating post-wax care practices into your routine, such as applying a cool compress and aloe vera gel.
Related: Waxing Aftercare Tips For Healthy, Irritation-Free Skin
How to use numbing cream for a Brazilian wax
While patch testing is always recommended when using new skincare products, it’s essential when treating a client with known allergies or a highly reactive skin type. This can help prevent histamine reactions and minimize the risk of other adverse side effects. Once you confirm the product is safe for your client, follow these steps for maximum performance:
1. Clean the waxing area
Encourage your client to arrive with clean skin, free of any topical products like lotion and deodorant. Then, use a pre-wax cleansing wipe to remove any lingering oils or impurities from the area.
2. Apply a thin layer of numbing cream
Squeeze out just enough product to cover the entire treatment area. You want to coat the skin completely without having a thick layer of visible product.
3. Cover the area and wait
Cover the product with a sheet of plastic wrap to encourage absorption and reduce evaporation. Then, have your client wait for 30 to 45 minutes as the product takes effect.
4. Wipe the skin clean
Once the skin is numb, wipe it clean to remove any excess product, which may interfere with the wax.
Related: How to Get Wax Out of Hair
Get expert advice and find high-quality waxing products at Enso Wax!
From battling itchy, ingrown hairs to achieving long-term success in your waxing journey, Enso is here to help every step of the way. Explore our premium waxing products, read guidance from industry experts, or reach out today to learn more!
