Facial Waxing

Facial waxing is a convenient and effective method to remove unwanted facial or body hair. While not a permanent fix, waxing lasts much longer than shaving or using depilatories, since during this process hair is removed from the root. Waxing is frequently used as a successful means of removing unwanted hair from the eyebrows, upper lip, chin, underarms, legs, back, and bikini area. The treated area usually remains smooth and hairless for 4 to 6 weeks.

Candidates for Facial Waxing

Almost anyone with unwanted hair is a candidate for facial waxing, though the individual must be prepared to experienced some discomfort or pain during the process. Individual sensitivities vary so some people tolerate waxing on certain parts of their body more easily than others. Whenever the skin is in an unusually sensitive condition, body waxing should be avoided since in such situations the skin is more prone to "lifting," meaning that the top layer of the skin can be torn away during the waxing process. Because of this, individuals in the following categories are not good candidates for body waxing:

• Those taking blood thinners or corticosteroids
• Those who have psoriasis, eczema or rosacea
• Those with autoimmune diseases, like lupus
• Those who are sunburned, have infections or cold sores
• Those with severe varicose veins
• Those who have undergone recent laser treatment
• Those who have undergone recent chemical peels

Benefits of Facial Waxing

There are several benefits to facial waxing over other methods of body hair removal. Waxing is more effective than some other hair removal treatments because:

• Large amounts of hair can be removed at one time
• Waxing lasts for a relatively long time, 4 to 8 weeks
• Regrowth of hair is softer than after shaving or depilatory use
• Pain or discomfort lessens as treatments become routine

Complications of Facial Waxing

Probably the biggest drawback to facial waxing is the pain involved, although for most individuals the end results are well worth the discomfort. While short-lived, the stinging or burning can be intense, especially if the waxing is administered to sensitive areas of the body. It is very important that an experienced, licensed technician perform the body waxing since proper technique and careful sanitation is essential to maintain health and avoid infection.

Even when waxing is performed with care, it is possible for red bumps, minor bleeding or bruising. or ingrown hairs to result, although these conditions are usually easily resolved. Such complications are most likely to occur during the primary waxing, especially on areas where hair growth is thick.W