How to Avoid and Manage Common Pitfalls

• Explore the common setbacks associated with leg waxing.
• Learn remedies for the leg waxing setbacks.

Leg waxing is a popular method of hair removal known for providing smooth, long-lasting results. Many clients choose waxing over shaving due to its ability to keep their legs hair-free for weeks rather than days. However, despite its benefits, waxing comes with a range of potential pitfalls and setbacks that can deter some individuals from using this hair removal method. From pain and skin irritation to the risk of infections and ingrown hairs, the process of waxing can present various challenges. Understanding these potential drawbacks is crucial for anyone considering waxing as their preferred hair removal technique. Let’s explore the common issues associated with leg waxing, providing insight into what you can warn your client about and how to mitigate these setbacks.

Pain and Discomfort: Waxing can be painful, especially for clients with low pain tolerance, sensitive skin, their first session or if your client has not been waxed in an extended period of time and the hair has fully grown back.

Remedy: Your clients can take over the counter pain reducers such as an NSAID or ibuprofen 30 minutes prior to their appointment. This will not eliminate all of the pain but will reduce it. Numbing cream is not recommended because the medication does not penetrate deep enough to reach the hair follicle. If their hair is too long, recommend that they trim it prior to their appointment, 

Pro Tip: During the waxing procedure, apply pressure with your hand on the area immediately after removing each wax strip, then rub. 

Skin Irritation: It is very common for some clients to experience erythema, swelling, or irritation after their wax session, particularly if they have sensitive skin or allergies to certain wax ingredients.

Remedy: Applying Dermwax’s Calendula Oil to your clients will help sooth and calm their skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also antifungal and antibacterial. You will also want to encourage your clients to stay cool for 24-48 hours after their service. That means no super-hot showers, working out, saunas, hot yoga, etc. 

Ingrown Hairs: Many of your clients may suffer from ingrown hairs, which occurs when the hair grows back into the skin instead of rising up and out from it.

Remedy: Clients should apply Dermwax Elite Ingrown Solution daily to the targeted area. This effective solution contains Arnica, Lactic Acid and Glycolic Acid which promotes cell turn over, sloughs of dead skin cells, is antibacterial and antifungal while soothing and moisturizing the skin.

Risk of Burns: Using hot wax can result in burns up to 3^rd degree burns if not handled properly, if the wax is too hot.

Remedy: With an applicator, test a small portion of wax on the inside of your wrist prior to applying the wax to your client. If the wax is too hot, take the can out wax warmer and place on a flat, heat-safe surface or add hard wax beads to the melted wax and stir. Be sure to retest the wax prior to applying the wax to your client.

Infections: There is a risk of infection if proper hygiene is not maintained, especially if the skin is broken during the waxing process.

Remedy: Never wax over broken or irritated skin. If you accidentally tear the skin while removing the wax strip, immediately apply Dermwax’s Calendula Oil due to its antibacterial and healing components. You will also want to sanitize your treatment table and all surfaces with Cavicide, Barbicide or UV sanitation. Check out Spa Order’s variety of disinfectants here. 

Bruising or Tearing: Improper technique can cause bruising or damage to the skin, especially if the wax is pulled off incorrectly.

Remedy: Holding the skin the taught with the non-dominant hand and remove the wax strip with the other. Be mindful of older client’s skin as it tends to be thinner and may have lost some of its elasticity. Recently lubricated, wet or sweaty skin will also tear when the wax is removed. Clients will need to wait at least 2 weeks between chemical peels and waxing and at least 12 months from their last dose of Accutane.

Time-Consuming: Waxing can be more time-consuming compared to other methods like shaving, especially if done at home without experience.

Remedy: Master your routine and technique for each area. The better you become, the easier it will be to shave minutes off each step. Have all your supplies and utensils easily accessible. Your hands may have wax on them, having all of your supplies on accessible will minimize making a mess and cross contaminating your treatment room.

Hair Length Requirement: Since the hair needs to be a certain length, it must be grown out between sessions.

Remedy: For the wax to grip effectively, the hair needs to be at least ¼ inch long. During the summer – long dresses, short sleeved shirts, bikini cover ups, shorts or bikini shorts can be easy ways to cover up while their hair is growing. 

Pro Tip: Make sure the hair isn’t too long either as this can increase the pain.

Allergic Reactions: Some clients may have allergic reactions to the ingredients in the wax or post-waxing products.

Remedy: Perform a thorough consultation before applying any products to their skin. In addition, your intake forms should ask about allergies. While reviewing their information, verbally ask if the person is allergic to anything as well. If your client suffers from allergies or has sensitive skin, Dermwax Elite Naked Line is ideal for them. The Elite Naked line is hypoallergenic, fragrance free and vegan friendly. 

Temporary Redness and Bumps: It is common for your clients to experience temporary redness and bumps immediately after waxing, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly.

Remedy: Apply a small amount of Dermwax’s Calendula Oil to sooth and calm the skin.

Not Suitable for All Skin Types: People with certain skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or varicose veins, may not be suitable candidates for waxing.

Remedy: Recommend speaking with a dermatologist to get the skin conditions under control. Treating irritated and inflamed skin runs the risk of damaging the skin, exacerbating the underlying issues and infection. 

Technique Sensitivity: Waxing requires proper technique to avoid issues such as missed hairs or breaking the hair instead of removing it from the root.

Remedy: Take classes from a reputable technician, school or wax distributor. Most importantly, practice and repetition are the only way to master your technique. Take notes on what works for you and what doesn’t.

Messiness: Waxing can be messy and difficult to clean up.

Remedy: Dermwax Calendula Organic Wax/Surface Cleaner is an organic, yet potent cleaner made for most surfaces, as well as a painter scraper. Be sure to clean your treatment room regularly in order to prevent cross contamination, infections and ensure client comfortability.

While leg waxing offers the allure of smooth, long-lasting results, it is not without its pitfalls and setbacks. Understanding these drawbacks is crucial for technicians when deciding if waxing is a service that they would like to offer. By being aware of the potential issues and taking appropriate precautions, you can make more informed decisions and potentially mitigate some of the common problems associated with leg waxing.

-Written by Kyla Sampson, 2024