Waxing: How to Prepare, What to Expect & How to Care for Your Skin

Waxing is one of the most effective ways to remove unwanted hair, leaving the skin smooth for longer compared to shaving. However, good preparation and aftercare make a huge difference to comfort, results, and how long your wax lasts.

Before your appointment, gentle exfoliation 24 hours beforehand is highly recommended. This removes dead skin cells, allows the wax to grip the hair more effectively, and can help reduce discomfort during treatment. Skin that is well-hydrated is also less sensitive, so keeping your water intake up in the days leading up to your wax is important. Hair should be at least 0.5 cm long to ensure it can be removed cleanly from the root.

On the day of your wax, avoid applying moisturiser, oils, or fake tan, as these can prevent the wax from adhering properly. It’s also best to avoid caffeine and alcohol, as both can make the skin more sensitive and reactive. Wearing loose clothing helps minimise friction afterwards, particularly for intimate or underarm waxing.

In the salon, I use Harley’s Wax, a professional waxing range designed to be gentle yet effective. For sensitive areas such as the face, brows, underarms and intimate waxing, I use film wax, which adheres to the hair rather than the skin, helping to reduce discomfort and irritation. For larger areas like legs, backs and chests, strip wax is used to efficiently remove hair while maintaining skin comfort.

Regular waxing plays a big role in improving results. When waxing is done consistently every four to six weeks, hair growth gradually becomes finer and softer. Ideally, having three wax treatments back-to-back helps bring the hair into the same growth cycle, meaning smoother results that last longer. Shaving between appointments is best avoided, as it disrupts the hair cycle and can lead to coarser regrowth.

the 4 stages of hair growth

The four stages shown in these images are:

1. Anagen – active growth phase (best stage for waxing results)

2. Catagen – transition phase

3. Telogen – resting phase

4. Exogen – shedding phase

   
   

Aftercare is just as important as preparation. Immediately after waxing, the skin can feel warm or slightly sensitive, which is completely normal. Avoid hot baths, saunas, swimming, sun exposure or sunbeds and intense exercise for 24–48 hours to allow the follicles time to close and calm. Wearing loose clothing continues to help prevent friction and irritation.

Once the skin has settled, gentle exfoliation two to three times per week helps prevent ingrown hairs and keeps the skin smooth. Using calming, hydrating products will also support skin recovery. In the salon, I stock Harley’s Ingrowing Hair Solution (£15) to help reduce irritation and prevent ingrown hairs, Vanilla & Jasmine Body Scrub (£14.50) to gently exfoliate and prep the skin, and Aloe Vera Soothing Gel (£9.95), which is perfect for moisturising dry skin and soothing any post-wax sensitivity.

With the right preparation, professional products, and correct aftercare, waxing can be a comfortable treatment that delivers long-lasting, smooth results while improving hair quality over time.