Most hard wax beads have a higher melting point than soft pot wax, but that isn’t always the case. In fact, cranking up the heat to effectively melt wax is a great way to burn skin, singe hairs, and drive away customers. But what temp should hard wax be? Find out in this guide!
Importance of the right temp for hard wax
There are plenty of obvious (and not-so-obvious) reasons hard wax should only be used at the ideal temp, including:
Client safety
You already know that scorching hot wax puts your clients at risk of dangerous burns and painful skin damage, but you don’t need to reach the boiling point to compromise your clients’ safety. Even wax that’s slightly too hot can burn sensitive skin on the face and body, leading to skin lifting.
Additionally, hard wax that’s too cool can become clumpy and tug at the skin, causing unnecessary trauma and bruising.
Client comfort
Unfortunately, your clients will feel this damage as it occurs. Even minor discomfort during a Brazilian, bikini, or eyebrow wax can encourage lingering irritation and dry skin that may cause your clients to reconsider doing business with you. Conversely, a hard wax application at the perfect temp should feel pleasantly warm and help relax the hair follicle for fast, effective hair removal that doesn’t make your clients flinch.
Waxing consistency
A honey-like consistency is ideal for most waxes. When heated to the right temperature, hard wax strikes a balance between being grippy, pliable, and spreadable, setting properly without crumbling or breaking.
Waxing efficiency
Wax that’s applied at the wrong temperature can’t effectively adhere to hair and may be more prone to breakage, meaning you’ll spend more time retreating certain areas, plucking hairs that were left behind, and removing stuck-on wax from the skin. When your wax warmer maintains the ideal temp for hard wax, you can seamlessly breeze through your appointments, leaving only happy, hair-free clients in your wake.
Related: Top Benefits of Numbing Cream for a Brazilian Wax
What temperature should hard wax be?
While most hard waxes perform best between 130 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit (54 degrees C to 65 degrees C), our Penny Hard Wax should be applied at a temp between 122 degrees F and 140 degrees F (50 degrees C to 60 degrees C).
Always read the packaging on your chosen hard wax to ensure the right temperature for every application. Here are a few more tips to keep your clients smooth, safe, and comfortable:
Testing the consistency
As you gain experience, you will learn to identify perfectly heated hard wax at a glance. It should flow smoothly off the spatula and form a slight drip, rather than clumping or running off immediately.
What to watch for
Glossy, runny hard wax that spreads too thin or feels too hot on your wrist is above the ideal temp. Wax that’s too cold may appear dull, brittle, or stringy, and may clump or crack when applied to the skin.
How to check the temp for hard wax
Although texture and consistency can give you a broad idea of your waxing temperature, these subjective qualities are no substitute for an accurate thermometer. Invest in a high-quality digital temperature gauge and verify the appropriate temp before each application.
Related: How To Use Hard Wax
How to heat hard wax to the proper temperature
Ready to master the art of applying hard wax at the right temperature? Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process:
Use the right tools
Heating wax in the microwave or on the stove can quickly create hot spots, leaving some wax thin and runny, while the rest is a clumpy mess. Invest in a professional wax warmer with an adjustable temperature gauge to ensure even heating.
Set the correct temperature
When melting room-temperature hard wax, start by setting your wax warmer a few degrees higher than the proper application temp. Once the solution has mostly liquified, bring it back down to its working range. This will expedite the heating process without risking burns and other adverse effects.
Allow sufficient time to melt
Most hard waxes need 20 to 30 minutes to melt, depending on the amount and the size of the pot. Be sure to factor in extra time between appointments to account for refills.
Stir regularly
As your hard wax melts, stir the solution with a clean, sanitary applicator to prevent hot spots and encourage an even consistency. It’s a good idea to repeat this process throughout the day, especially before each session.
Test the temp and consistency
No matter your experience level or eye for properly heated hard wax, always confirm the temperature with a thermometer and perform a patch test on your wrist before applying it to your clients.
Related: How To Get The Right Wax Temperature, Every Time
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