Waxing: The Myths And Facts

The appearance of facial and body hair can not only be a nuisance during the summer months but result in an unwanted, embarrassing occurrence for those who suffer excessively.
Today I will be taking a look at the myths and facts surrounding one of the beauty industry's most popular treatments...waxing.

Myth: Waxing is a form of permanent hair removal.

Fact: The effects of wax depilation varies between individuals and is solely dependent on hair growth. People who have extremely sensitive hair germ cells will produce replacement hairs more quickly than others however, this particular form of hair removal can last between 3-8 weeks and is by no means permanent.






Myth: Waxing weakens hair growth.

Fact: There is evidence both for and against this theory. Depilatory wax treatment increases the blood supply to the hairs causing regrowth to appear slightly thicker and coarse. However, it has also been known for clients to experience a regrowth of visibly sparse hairs after a waxing procedure.

Myth: Replacement hairs all regrow at the same time.

Fact: As the growth cycle for each follicle is different hairs are depilated at different stages. As a result, regrowth is spasmodically and not at the same time.

Myth: Waxing prevents ingrowing hairs.

Fact: Ingrowing hairs occur when the mouth of the hair follicle becomes blocked. This forces the hair to become trapped and as a result, begins to grow back on itself. 
Although increased keratinisation can block the mouth of the follicle by producing more cells in the stratum corneum, inadequate aftercare such as dry skin and wearing tight fitting clothing over the treated area following wax depilation can easily produce ingrowing hairs.

Myth: Waxing doesn't hurt.

Fact: Individual pain thresholds will vary however, if depilatory waxing is performed properly the removal of hair will feel similar to that of having a plaster pulled off. Once soothing after-care is applied any remaining skin sensation soon disappears.

Myth: I will suffer an adverse skin reaction to the wax used.

Fact: It is normal for skin to look slightly pink after wax epilation regardless of the temperature of wax used. Providing you do not suffer from hypersensitive skin, the procedure has been performed correctly and a skin test has been completed prior to treatment, there is no reason why you should suffer an over-reaction to waxing.