Waxing Myths: Busted

In the past few weeks, we've been working to bust some common hair, nail, skincare, and makeup myths, so now we're turning our attention to waxing myths. Waxing is a popular, easy form of hair removal, but there are plenty of myths surrounding it. Read on for our top waxing myths, busted:

1. Waxing makes your hair grow back thicker: This is false. Waxing removes the hair at the root, so it takes longer to recover and grow back. Shaving simply cuts the hair at the skin and doesn't remove the root. Actually, when you wax regularly, the hair will begin to grow back finer and thinner, and will be easier to remove.

2. Waxing causes wrinkles and sagging skin: Nope! However, we will say that the skin must be pulled taut during the waxing process, and skin can sag due to repeated pulling if the person waxing isn't a trained professional. A good waxing technician will properly pull the skin taut and press it later to eliminate sagging. Waxing can also, of course, cause some irritation and minor rashes; it also exfoliates the skin, removes tanning, and leaves the skin glowing.

3. It's okay to swim after waxing: Actually, no. Because waxing opens up pores and makes the skin more sensitive, it's best not to swim for the first 24 hours after that waxing appointment. The open pores on your skin can be an invitation for bacteria! If you're heading to the beach or pool, it's best to make an appointment a couple of days before you leave, just to be on the safe side.

4. It's okay to shave between waxing appointments: It's actually best if you don't. Shaving cuts off the hair at a straight angle, which changes the texture of the hair, and makes it more likely for you to get an ingrown hair. Shaving also makes it more challenging to get a proper wax at your next appointment.

5. Waxing lasts longer than shaving: This one's true! The roots remain intact when you shave, since you're only cutting off the hair that's above the skin. Your hair will grow back pretty quickly, sometimes within a couple of days. Waxing removes the hair at the root, so in order for the hair to grow back, it has to heal first. That can take up to 3-4 weeks.

6. Waxing is exfoliating, so I don't need to exfoliate: Well...waxing is exfoliating, but if you exfoliate your skin a day or so before your appointment.

There you have it! If you'd like to make a waxing appointment, give Salon Patrice a call at (815) 223-8643 or find all of our waxing services here.