How Long After A Wax Can You Shower?

Following a wax, you’ll want to avoid any activity that could aggravate the skin. That means no hot water, alcohol, or exfoliation for at least 24 hours. The best post-wax shower routine is lukewarm water with a gentle cleanser. This allows your body to stabilize and your skin to work through any sensitivity that may occur. It’s also helpful to exfoliate before the wax, but you should avoid exfoliating for two to three days. You also don’t want to rub your skin, which will cause further sensitivity. Instead, Dr. Mitchell suggests lightly patting your skin dry after your shower.

Avoiding Hot Water

After a wax, it is important to avoid exposure to hot water for 48 hours. This is because bacteria can be present on newly waxed skin. It is also important to avoid waxing sensitive areas.

Avoiding Exfoliation

Getting a wax can be traumatic to the skin, so it is best to avoid exfoliating for a few days afterward. Exfoliating can also damage the skin and make it less suitable for the next waxing appointment. Moreover, exfoliating directly over a waxed area can cause friction and inflammation.

Avoiding Activities That Make You Sweat

If you’ve just had a wax, it’s important to avoid activity that causes you to sweat for at least 12 hours. This includes saunas, swimming, running, and cycling, as these will irritate the newly exfoliated skin.

Avoiding Alcohol

It is best to avoid alcohol after a wax because it can make the waxing process more painful. The reason for this is that alcohol thins the blood, making the skin more sensitive to pain. Besides alcohol, caffeine can also make the skin more sensitive. However, some people find that Aspirin helps with the pain and discomfort associated with waxing.

Avoiding Saunas

During the first 24 hours after a wax, you should avoid exposing the area to excessive heat, friction, and sweat. This will help minimize the pain and help you get the best results. Avoid using hot showers and saunas, too, for at least the first 24 hours.

Avoiding Tanning Beds

Avoiding tanning beds after a wax is an excellent way to protect your newly waxed skin. Tanning beds contain harmful ultraviolet rays and heat, so you should wait at least 24 hours before going under the booth. It is also a good idea to avoid any activities that could cause your skin to become overly tanned. This can cause irritation and ingrown hairs.