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Waxing 101

Here you'll find a number of common questions and answers about waxing. It is highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with these. Please bear in mind that these answers are no substitute for the advice of a doctor. It is highly advisable to consult your doctor if you are unsure about waxing due to an existing medical condition, and that you avoid waxing for the proscribed times if you are taking any of the medications mentioned below. 

Q. Which Brazilian Wax option should I book?

A. If you're new to Strip book 'new client'. Once you've had a brazilian wax with us, you're in our system and now a Strip Club Member. This means that future bookings will be priced at our Strip Club Member rates, and based on the number of weeks since your last brazilian wax with us. So if you last visited Strip 36 days ago, you fall in the 'under 6 weeks' category and so on.

Q. How can I tell when my last wax was?

A. The system records your appointments. You will receive automated emails each time you book - by saving these emails you will always have a record of your prior appointments and be able to work out pricing. However, should you require confirmation of price, please text or email us and we will get back to you within 24 hours.

Q. How long should my hair be for waxing?

A. The hair should be at least 5-10mm for best results. Coarse hair should be at least 10mm for the first wax. As a general guide, wait around 2 weeks after shaving. You don't need to trim longer hair, in case you trim it too short.

Q. Is it cheaper if I've recently shaved?

A. All brazilian waxing prices are based on the date of your last brazilian wax at Strip, not the date you last shaved. Shaving just reduces hair length, not density, and will take the same time as unshaved hair (sometimes longer if the hair is very short) Please book for the appropriate treatment, bearing in mind you should wait 2 weeks after shaving before waxing.

Q. What will happen at my appointment?

A. You will be greeted at your designated appointment time and asked a few questions about your treatment choice. You will then be given a minute alone to get ready. Hand-sanitizer and wet wipes are provided. It is recommended that you bring an old pair of undies to wear - many clients prefer to keep them on while others opt not to. Either way you will still achieve a smooth wax!   

Q. Pre-wax care:

WHEN NOT TO WAX OR USE CAUTION:

  • USE CAUTION if:
  • using certain products that contain Retin-A, Renova, hydroquinone, AHA's, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, white willow bark, white willow bark extract and enzymes (these all strip cells from the skin as they are powerful exfoliators. Too much exfoliation combined with waxing could make skin red, bleed and turn scabby) Stop using these products for at least three days before, and three to four days after waxing. (If the alpha-hydroxy is over 8% then you may have to wait several months before safely getting waxed). These can all cause heightened sensitivity and thinning to the skin, which will increase the likelihood of potential complications i.e. bruising, skin abrasions
  • Please check with your doctor if you are unsure of your suitability for waxing
  • DO NOT WAX if:
  • you take oral acne medications such as Accutane (or have stopped taking it less than a year ago) or any other prescription acne medication
  • you use blood-thinners, topical/oral cortisone (without the advice of a Doctor)
  • you have lupus/AIDS/in cancer therapy getting chemotherapy or radiation
  • have sunburn or been in direct sunlight for a long period of time or used a tanning bed within the last 24 hours

BEFORE WAXING:

  • Don't shower or bath immediately before waxing as soaking the hair can soften it, allowing it to break more easily
  • Don't apply moisturiser/oil products, as these too can cause hair to break
  • Ensure that the area(s) to be waxed are clean. Wipes are provided for your convenience
  • Avoid drinking caffeinated products or alcohol, as these are stimulants that can increase sensitivity
  • Avoid exercising for at least 12 hours before waxing to maintain a regular body temperature for your comfort
  • Take a couple of pain-killers around 40 minutes before the treatment if you are concerned about pain
  • Wear an old pair of cotton undies as they can be left on during the wax (Strip Wax Boutique cannot be held responsible for any product spillage on them)
  • Try to relax! Most people find the treatment to be much easier than they imagine

Q. Post-wax care (12-24hrs after wax)

DON'T

  • exfoliate
  • get direct sun exposure, sunbeds and spray tans
  • use products with fragrance or ingredients that may irritate i.e. deodrant, make-up etc.
  • wear tight clothing - keep it loose to allow your skin to breathe
  • take hot showers, baths, spas, steam rooms and saunas. Warm showers are fine
  • vigorously exercise - heavy exercise will increase perspiration and chaffing
  • touch the freshly waxed area

DO:

  • Keep the area clean and dry. A natural antiseptic like tea-tree oil is great for this purpose as it is both antimicrobial and antibacterial, and soothes the skin into the bargain. You may apply an over-the-counter antibiotic cream for a couple of days.
  • Other anti-bacterial and antiseptic treatments are also fine to apply
  • Rinse the waxed area with cold water after bathing to close the follicles
  • Apply a cold compress or ice pack for 15 minutes to reduce redness and relieve inflammation if occurring.
  • Gently exfoliate on the 3rd day after waxing, then continue to exfoliate every other day, using a spa glove or other exfoliating cloth
  • Moisturise the area often to keep skin supple and soft.
  • Drink plenty of water! The more hydrated your skin, the less likely you are to develop ingrown hairs.
  • If you do find that you suffer from ingrown hairs despite these preventative measures, Strip Wax Boutique recommends PFB Vanish ingrown hair treatment as a highly effective remedy (to be used 3 days after waxing and not to be used 5 days before waxing)

Q. What wax do you use at Strip?

A. We use PINKINI HOT WAX & SOBerrylicious Strawberry Strip Wax by Lycon, a premier Wax brand formulated for sensitive skin. For larger body areas an Argan Oil Strip Wax or Honey Strip Wax is used, which contains argania spinosa kernel oil, and leaves the skin smooth and soft.

Q. Is waxing popular with guys?

A. Yes! Manscaping is on the increase in New Zealand. Back waxing is a fantastic way to avoid the shaggy bear look! Many athletes wax for increased performance and comfort. Waxing has been an integral part of body building regimes and continues to be the best way to display the results of all your hard work at the gym! Please note, at this stage for male waxing, we do not offer any treatments in the bikini region.

MANSCAPING. MENS WAXING, WELLINGTON AT STRIP WAX BOUTIQUE

Q. What should I expect after my first wax treatment?

A. Everyone's skin reacts differently to waxing, but you may find that you experience redness, bumps, white pimples or some irritation for a day or two. Don't fret, these are temporary and usually only last a few hours. If you have a big event coming up it is advisable to get your waxing done at least 48 hours in advance to minimize these potential after-effects. Some people notice a mild itchiness as the hair grows out, but with the recommended post-wax care these symptoms will be minimal. 

Q. Will I get ingrown hairs?

A. Possibly. Waxing removes the entire hair from the follicle, and as your skin naturally hardens over the area that was waxed, it is important to keep that area gently exfoliated. You should aim to start regularly exfoliating the area on the 3rd day after waxing. Consistent exfoliation is one of the best preventative measures against ingrown hairs, so aim for every second day. You can combine this with a bodywash containing salicylic acid for best results. PFB Vanish ingrown hair treatment is a miracle ingrown hair solution.

Q. Can I wax if I'm pregnant?

A. Absolutely! HOT WAX IS ESSENTIAL. But please consult your medical professional first. 

Q. What if I have my period?

A. Strip is happy to offer treatments while you have your period. Just wear a fresh tampon and maybe pop a couple of painkillers as many people feel heightened sensitivity at this point in their cycle.

Q. How often should I get my wax treatment?

A. This varies from client to client, but most people aim for repeat waxing every 4-6 weeks. Regular waxing is essential if you wish to maintain your smooth results. The skin will be less sensitive if waxing is done regularly, and over time the hair follicle will weaken and the hair will come out more easily. As a bonus, you should find that you experience less hair growth over time.

Q. Will waxing make my hair grow back thicker/stronger/darker?

A. No! The only thing known to stimulate hair growth is meds‘ & hormones, whether natural or artificial. Therefore, waxing should not cause you to produce more hair. If you wax regularly, you should notice over time that your hair actually becomes thinner and sparser.

Q. Can I bring my child with me?

A. Unfortunately not. The treatment room is full of potential hazards and you will not be in a position to supervise effectively.

If you have any questions that are not answered here, please contact us.

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