Waxing: Your Questions Answered

Whether you’re going for a wax for the first time or a regular waxing king or queen, you may have questions. This is entirely normal; as one of Dublin’s best waxing salons, we’ve often had clients compare going for wax to visiting the dentist.

It's something they have to do, yet it still makes them nervous. We, of course, understand that some people, when they are feeling uncomfortable, they want to get as much information as possible to calm their nerves. That’s why we here at Blush Beauty Room have compiled some of the most common questions our Dublin waxing experts get asked and included them in this blog.

How long does waxing last?

The duration of the waxing results can vary from person to person, but on average, waxing can last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. The exact length of time the results will last depends on several factors, including:

Hair Growth Cycle: Hair grows in different cycles, including the anagen (growth), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting) phases. When you wax, you remove hair from the root, so it takes time for the hair to grow back. The duration of hair-free skin will depend on where your hair was in its growth cycle when you waxed.
Hair Type: The texture and thickness of your hair can affect how long the waxing results last. Coarser hair may take longer to grow back than fine hair.
Individual Hair Growth Rate: Some people's hair grows faster than others, so waxing results may only last for a short time for those with faster hair growth.
Waxing Technique: The skill of the person performing the waxing and the quality of the wax used can also impact the longevity of the results. Professional waxing tends to provide longer-lasting results than at-home waxing.
Regularity of Waxing: Regular waxing over time can lead to thinner and slower hair regrowth, so that the results may last longer with consistent waxing.
Aftercare: Proper aftercare can also affect the longevity of waxing results. Avoiding hot baths, exfoliating, and using certain skincare products immediately after waxing can help extend the time between waxing sessions.
 

How long should hair be before waxing?

The ideal hair length for waxing can vary depending on the area of the body you want to wax and the waxing you plan to do. In general, the hair should be long enough for the wax to grip it effectively but not too long; it makes the waxing process excessively painful or difficult. Here are some guidelines for hair length for different waxing areas:

Body and Leg Waxing: Hair on the body and legs should ideally be around 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6-12 mm) long. This length allows the wax to adhere to the hair and be pulled out from the root effectively. If the hair is too short, the wax may not grip it properly, and if it's too long, the process can be more painful.
Facial Waxing: For facial waxing, like eyebrows, upper lip, or chin, the hair can be shorter, around 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3-6 mm) long. A shorter strand is preferred for facial waxing because it can be more sensitive, and you want to minimise discomfort.
Bikini and Brazilian Waxing: The hair in the bikini area should be similar to body and leg waxing, ideally around 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6-12 mm) long. For Brazilian wax, some people prefer slightly longer hair to make it easier to work with, but it should still be within this general range.
 

When in doubt, we recommend talking to our waxing experts.

How long after waxing can you shower?

We recommend waiting at least 24-48 hours before a hot shower, especially in the waxed area. This waiting period allows your skin to recover and reduces the risk of irritation, redness, or potential complications.

How can I make waxing less painful?

While we make every effort to make waxing as comfortable as possible, there are some additional strategies you can implement before you come to our salon. These include:

Choose the Right Time: Some people find waxing less painful during certain times of the month. For many, the week following menstruation is when pain sensitivity is lower.
Exfoliate Beforehand: Gently exfoliate the area to be waxed a day or two before your waxing appointment. This helps remove dead skin cells, allowing the wax to adhere better to the hair and reducing the chances of ingrown hairs.
Breathe and Relax: Deep breathing and staying as relaxed as possible during the waxing session can help reduce pain. Try to avoid tensing your muscles or holding your breath.
Take Short Breaks: If you're getting a large area waxed, consider taking short breaks between sections. 
Maintain a Regular Waxing Schedule: The more regularly you wax, the less painful it tends to be over time. With consistent waxing, hair becomes finer, and the roots weaken.
Aftercare: Following proper aftercare can help reduce post-waxing discomfort and prevent ingrown hairs.
 

Do you still have some waxing questions? Then we invite you to call us today. Alternatively, contact our salon and book your next waxing treatment today.