Waxing can give you smooth, supple, hair-free skin for weeks at a time, but pesky pimples might make you reconsider your hair removal method. Fortunately, certain skincare practices will help you avoid breakouts and achieve your desired results. Today, we’re discussing the causes of post-wax pimples and how to prevent them.
What causes pimples after waxing?
You might notice acne-like breakouts following a wax session for many reasons. Here are a few possible sources of those blemishes:
Bacteria
Bacteria may be the most common culprit of pimples after waxing. Epilation makes your skin more susceptible to microorganisms, so it’s essential to cleanse before and after your wax and maintain proper hygiene in the following days.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis after waxing (inflamed or infected hair follicles) can present as a rash or breakout of small pimples after waxing. This may be due to damage to the follicle or a bacterial infection in the treatment area.
Clogged pores
An accumulation of dead skin cells, natural oils, and other impurities can clog pores and trap bacteria beneath the skin’s surface, leading to a breakout.
Ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs can mimic pimples caused by acne, including dreaded whiteheads. These often appear when previously shaved hairs fail to break through the skin.
Irritation
Excessive friction also contributes to the appearance of pimples after waxing. Tight clothing that rubs against the skin and locks in heat and moisture may increase the risk of ingrown hairs and bacterial infection.
Tips to prevent pimples after waxing
To get the best results from your waxing session and prevent pimples, you’ll need to treat your skin with extra care. Here are a few waxing aftercare tips to avoid breakouts after your wax appointment:
Prep your skin before your appointment
In the weeks leading up to your appointment, you should keep your body hydrated and your skin moisturized. Exfoliating your skin one to two days before your waxing session will help prevent ingrown hairs and clogged pores that often cause pimples. Be sure to arrive for your wax with clean skin, free of any skincare products like moisturizer and deodorant.
Wear loose-fitting clothes
Your skin will likely be sensitive after your waxing session, and friction can increase your risk of irritation, ingrown hairs, and infection. This is particularly important for a Brazilian or bikini wax. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment to keep your skin happy.
Avoid sweating and heat
Moisture and heat create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. From the day of your waxing appointment, you’ll need to avoid the gym and skip the sauna until your skin has healed completely.
Practice proper aftercare
Your skin may need a little extra love as it heals from your waxing session. A gentle cleanser and a fragrance-free moisturizer should keep it clean and hydrated. If you experience redness or irritation, use a cool compress or aloe vera gel to soothe the area.
Avoid sweating, heat, and friction until your skin returns to normal. This means only lukewarm showers. Once your skin has recovered from waxing, begin exfoliating daily to prevent pimples.
How to treat pimples after waxing
When pimples strike after waxing, here are a few things you can do to control the breakout safely and effectively:
Cleanse your skin
A gentle cleanser can destroy harmful bacteria that cause post-wax pimples. If you feel a breakout coming on, cleansing twice a day may minimize the damage.
Apply the right products
Certain topical products contain antiseptic and antibacterial properties to eliminate microorganisms on your skin. For example, tea tree essential oil may effectively clear your breakout if applied after your skin has healed completely.
Witch hazel also offers anti-inflammatory properties to soothe irritated skin and improve post-wax pimples. Stay away from harsh active ingredients until your skin makes a full recovery.
Avoid heat
Heat and bacteria go hand-in-hand, so staying cool is vital. Remember, waxing removes your outermost layer of skin and temporarily compromises your moisture barrier, so you’ll be more susceptible to infection.
Use a warm compress
It’s true—most pros advise against heat exposure after waxing. However, if you have reason to believe that ingrown hairs are causing your pimples, a warm compress can help open your pores to release the trapped strands. If possible, avoid doing this in the first 24 to 48 hours.
Avoid makeup
Makeup and the applicators we use to paint it on can harbor bacteria and clog your pores. If pimples erupt after your waxing session, lay off the cosmetics and let your skin breathe.
Use cortisone cream
Hydrocortisone cream contains steroids that soothe inflamed, irritated skin. While we can’t ignore the benefits, it’s important to note that these products can cause adverse effects like thinning skin if overused, so apply them sparingly.
Consult with your healthcare provider
If your pimples continue to rage long after waxing, it might be helpful to visit your dermatologist. These skin experts can determine the specific cause of your breakout and offer solutions to clear your skin and prevent blemishes after your next wax.
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