Waxing bumps do happen, and often look like a razor burn or just red, irritated skin. The simple truth is that everyone reacts differently to waxing, and although not pretty, a mild case can be considered a normal reaction. The good news is there are steps you can take to lessen bumps or avoid them altogether.
Staying Clear of Waxing Bumps
- Exfoliate. LIGHTLY exfoliate skin before waxing, even if its just a mild shower gel and washcloth. This helps rid the follicle of oil and debris. The waxing may bring this oil and debris to the surface, but now the skin is more vulnerable and can cause it to become irritated.
- Apply some heat. By taking a warm, not hot shower or bath, or applying a warm compress right before waxing will open up the skins pores and soften the skin, allowing the hair follicles to come out easier. This not only helps with the pain factor, but helping prevent irritation from the wax pulling on the skin.
- Fight the bump. Before waxing, apply a product like Solution 2 (compare prices) to help them from appearing. Continue to apply product 24 hours after waxing or according to the directions. Hydrocortizone cream is another option that most people have in their cabinet which will help soothe irritation and any itchiness.
- Try another wax. Hard wax (compare prices) works best in the bikini area by actually shrink wrapping the hair before removing it. And cream wax (compare prices) works wonders on the delicate facial skin.
- Stick with it. Usually waxing bumps lessen over time as your skin adjusts if you continue to wax somewhat frequently.
Other issues from waxing like ingrown hairs, pain, pimples, bruising and more can also occur.