Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about your upcoming appointment? Review these FAQs for more information!

How long must I wait to make a waxing appointment after shaving or trimming?

If you have been shaving or trimming, you must let your hair grow out for at least three weeks. If it’s too short, it will be a little tricky to pull it out. We recommend that you grow it out at least ¼ inch or for 3 weeks minimum after shaving or trimming.

Are there any contraindications for waxing?

You must be off Acne Medication (Accutane, Differin, Isotretinoin) for at least 1 year. Please consult with your physician regarding any medications and how it may affect your waxing experience. Some brand names to be aware of include: Adapalene, Avita, Tazorac Avage, Proactiv(e), Strivectin. If you use any of the following, please let us know. These products can make your skin thin and more sensitive to waxing which can result in lifting and extra sensitivity. Every individual reacts differently to these products and sometimes waxing can be done if a proper patch test is completed.

Retin A, retinol or any products containing it.

Bleaching or lightening agents for skin (Hydroquinone).

Chemical depilatories (Nair).

Benzoyl Peroxide (Proactive).

High percentages of alpha hydroxy acids (Lactic, glycolic, salicylic).

Topical or oral antibiotics.

Recent chemical peels, laser, and microdermabrasion.

Radiation and/or chemotherapy.

Any precautions or considerations for waxing?

Sunburned or irritated skin or areas with open skin cannot be waxed.

Moles cannot be waxed.

You must wait a minimum of seven (7) days before waxing after a light chemical peel or Microdermabrasion.

Waxing cannot be performed if you have been in a tanning booth the same day.

Waxing cannot be performed if you have had laser skin resurfacing within the past 6 months on the treated area.

Waxing cannot be performed if you have had a physician administered peel within the past year (one year) on the treated area.

If irritation should occur, we recommend you use an antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin to keep the area continually moist to help avoid infection and scabbing.

No sun/tanning booths for 2 days following a waxing treatment. Extra precaution should be taken if using tanning accelerators. Wait 2-3 days to wax before/after tanning with accelerators.

No hot baths for 24 hours following a body waxing treatment.

No abrasives for 24 hours following a waxing treatment.

No deodorants for 24 hours following an underarm waxing treatment.

Women may experience extra sensitivity to waxing up to a week prior to the beginning of their menses.

What can I do to prepare for the waxing appointment?

To make waxing a little less painful, make sure to gently exfoliate with a scrub the night prior to your appointment. This removes the dead skin cells and opens the hair follicles and will make the waxing service a lot less painful while preventing irritation and ingrown hairs.

DO NOT exfoliate the same day as your appointment as it can increase the possibility of lifting skin.

Do not use any products containing retinoids, glycolic, salicylic acids on the area you wish to get waxed for at least five days prior to your visit.

Avoiding alcohol for at least 24 hours and caffeine for 5 hours before getting waxed will greatly reduce sensitivity. Caffeine and alcohol restrict the blood vessels, so skin cannot get as much blood flow, which increases sensitivity.

Drink a lot of water. When you are dehydrated, your skin becomes more sensitive to pain.

Be sure to have enough sleep, avoid nicotine, and even stress as this can make your skin more sensitive, thus making it more painful during waxing.

Keep the area being waxed free of any lotion, oil, or deodorant.

Do not wear non-breathable or tight clothing. It could cause irritation and ingrown hairs. Wear something loose and comfortable.

If preferred, you can take over-the-counter pain medication 30-45 minutes before your appointment. It can help reduce any pain, inflammation, swelling, or redness. We also carry a topical anesthetic which you may purchase and apply 30-45 minutes before your appointment.

The more often you get waxed, the softer your hair will be when it grows back, which makes it less painful to remove. To allow for easier removal, try to schedule your waxes on a regular basis before the hair gets too long. If waxing for a special event, try coming in 2 to 3 times prior to the event for the smoothest, most flawless skin. Be sure your skin is healthy and that you have no sores, broken skin, or sunburn.

Try your best to relax your body. Take a deep breath to help clear your mind and reduce any tension before the next strip. Do not be nervous! You are in good hands. All our estheticians are very experienced with all types of hair and people of every size and ethnicity. We will guide you through the entire process and make sure you leave happy!

Are there any possible side effects from waxing?

Although we cannot predict or guarantee who may react, most clients do not experience reactions beyond redness and minor irritation. A common side effect of waxing is histamine reaction. You may experience hives, tiny bumps, itching, or irritation. It's your body's natural reaction when it thinks it's being attacked, so it's essentially a defense mechanism. This will not last long and some clients find that the best way to speed it along is to take some Benadryl an hour before your appointment, and then again, a few hours later. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if this is a good option for you.

Avoid the sun immediately after waxing and please wear sunscreen. Recently waxed areas are prone to hyperpigmentation (permanent darkening of the skin) if exposed to the sun.

Avoid tanning for at least 48 hours after your service. Since waxing is a form of exfoliation, it could increase your risk for sunburn.

Avoid heavy exercise and sex for at least 24 hours after waxing. Sweating can cause irritation.

Avoid swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, and other heated sources for at least 48 hours. Excessive heat and chemicals can cause irritation.

Do not use exfoliating products (AHAs, scrubs, etc.) and loofas for at least 48 hours after waxing. After that time frame, regular exfoliation may be helpful especially on the leg, arms, and bikini area to reduce and erase ingrown hairs.

Avoid tight clothing after waxing, especially in the waxed areas. Tight clothing may result in irritation and ingrown hairs.

Routine waxing helps the skin get accustomed to the procedure and may minimize irritation.

How long does a Brazilian Wax last?

Typically, it lasts for about 2-3 weeks before you see any hair growth, but then again, it depends on the person’s hair growth cycle. For some people, the hair may slowly grow back after a week or two and may become more visible after three to four weeks. You will probably see hair growth a little sooner after your first Brazilian Wax due to your hair growth cycles. After a few waxing appointments, you will notice the hair takes longer to grow back. This is because you have hair growing in many different growth cycles before you get waxed. The temperature also affects hair growth. During hot weather or summer, hair grows faster than in the winter/colder months. Like other beauty treatments, waxing requires regular sessions to achieve optimal results. Therefore, if you want finer hair — or even less hair growth — all you need to do is book an appointment with us now!

Does it hurt?

Every person reacts differently to waxing, and we all have different sensitivity levels. There is some discomfort involved, however, most women find it quite tolerable. We will do our best to make you comfortable and make the waxing as painless as possible.

How long does my skin stay red and sensitive?

It depends on the person and the skin type. For most people, the redness is mostly gone after 30 minutes to an hour and sensitivity lessens after a few hours to 24 hours. Avoid perfumes, scrubs, and other irritants on the day of your service. For brides, or if you are preparing for a special event, we recommend waxing 2 months before the event to see how your skin reacts. If everything is fine, schedule another wax 3 to 4 days before your event.

Is it ok to shave between waxing appointments?

Waxing slows down and reduces hair growth. After several appointments, hair grows back much thinner, making it easier to remove and less painful when waxed. Shaving just one time in between appointments will negate all that is gained from waxing and can further irritate follicles, which can cause ingrown hairs. So, no, we do not advise shaving between appointments.

What kind of wax do you use?

We use two different types of wax. For the face and more sensitive areas of the body, we use a hard wax that shrink wraps and hardens around the hair and lifts from the skin, creating a less painful removal. We use a soft wax with cloth strips for leg waxing.

Can I get a Brazilian Wax while on my period?

Yes, you can get waxed on your period. You just need to wear a fresh tampon or clean menstrual cup to your appointment. During your period, your skin is at its most sensitive, so should let your wax therapist know you’re on your period, so they will know what to expect and be as gentle as possible on your skin.

Can I get a Brazilian Wax if I’m pregnant?

If you can deal with sensitivity and pain, then getting a Brazilian Wax or Bikini Wax during pregnancy should be perfectly safe to moms and their babies. Our professionals practice good hygiene to keep you safe and healthy.

If you are looking for a waxing salon, there are some precautions you should be aware of. Make sure to see an experienced and licensed Esthetician. Ask about their work history and training. Check to see that the facility is clean and does not reuse wax or strips between clients. Doing so could put you at risk for bacterial infections. Reusing applicators or “double-dipping” them back into the wax also increases your risk of infection. Our team follows best practices to keep our space clean and to keep you safe. Contact us if you have any further questions.

How long does a Brazilian Wax take?

For first-timers, waxing may take a little longer, so about 30 minutes. It also depends on the density of your hair growth. After a few sessions, it will only take around 20 minutes or less. We take our time to get every single last hair. A Brazilian Wax is an expensive service, so to be left with hair is unacceptable. We make sure our waxing service is completed thoroughly and properly.

Will my hair grow back thicker or darker?

Your hair will not grow back thicker or darker after waxing. Actually, the opposite occurs. Hair that is removed at the root grows back softer and finer over time.

Is there an age limit for getting waxed?

There is not an age limit or age requirement to get waxed. However, if you’re under the age of 18, you must bring a parent or guardian on your first visit as we need their consent.

How do I pick a good waxing salon?

There are MANY reasons that a person should avoid getting waxed at a nail salon. Did you know that "waxing" falls under SKIN CARE and not NAIL CARE? Simply ask yourself these questions about your waxing experience at other salons:

1) Did they ask you to fill out any information about your skin or any products you are using that might contradict waxing procedures?

2) Do they double dip their sticks into a wax pot?

3) Do they have a license in SKIN CARE?

4) Do they provide on-going education and help answer any questions you have regarding the waxing process?

It may be quicker and cheaper, but keep in mind, your skin and your health are with you for the rest of your life. Treat it with the utmost respect and safety. Trust the professionals at European Touch of Beauty to care for your skin!