How Long Should Hair Be to Wax?
Complete newbies and the most experienced hair waxing experts alike can sometimes encounter difficulties when eyeing up different body parts they’d like to be hair free and what hair length is necessary going in. There’s a nice sweet spot you'll want for the various types of waxing you might go for whether it's a Brazilian wax, leg waxing or chest hair waxing – or anything in between or above that.
While finding that perfect length might seem like a Goldilocks quest – not too long, not too short – you’ll want to make sure you find the length that is just right to avoid nasty ingrown hair, and have a great waxing session.
How long does your hair have to be for a successful waxing appointment?
The right hair length for waxing allows your esthetician to quickly and efficiently remove hair by the root. Too short, and hair doesn’t adhere to the wax properly. Too long, and there’s a good chance your hair doesn’t get pulled by the root and grows back quicker than you’d like.
The general rule of hair length
Regardless of which waxing salon you go to, or what kind of wax your esthetician is using, the rule for hair length is the same. Your hair needs to be at least a quarter of an inch long for a great wax. For reference, a grain of rice is also about a quarter inch long. Most people’s hair grows to this length within three to four weeks.
Does the area getting waxed affect hair length?
Despite what you may think, the quarter inch rule goes for any waxing service. From Brazilians to underarms and leg waxing, the quarter inch length should always be followed. If you can’t handle any hair growing on some areas, you’re probably better off shaving those parts of your body.
Other waxing prep measures to take
Besides growing your hair out to the proper length, there are a couple other things you can do to ensure a successful waxing session. Exfoliate 24 to 48 hours before your waxing appointment to get rid of any dead skin cells, and moisturize up until the day of your session.
Healthy, moisturized skin helps wax adhere best! Drink plenty of water leading up to your appointment, and avoid caffeine for 24 to 48 hours before. Wear loose clothing to let your freshly waxed skin breathe, and to avoid irritating your skin.
It’s also vital to make sure your skin doesn't have any open cuts, sores, or isn’t irritated. Any professional will reschedule your appointment until these concerns subside to prevent infection and unnecessary pain.
What to do in between waxing appointments
As you settle into a regular waxing schedule, hair growth becomes thinner, slower, and waxing appointments become a breeze. That is, of course, if you follow the right instructions for taking care of your hair and skin in between appointments and stay consistent.
Should you shave between waxes?
You should never, under any circumstances, shave between waxes if you plan on returning to your esthetician. It’ll disrupt the hair growth process, and you’ll have to postpone your next appointment. Of course, if you’re in a rush and you just absolutely need those legs totally bare, shaving may be your only option. Just make sure you give your esthetician a heads up!
What if your hair growth is longer than the recommended length?
Additionally, if you know your hair is longer than a quarter inch, don’t worry! Follow the same prep guidelines, but don’t try to trim your hair down. Experienced waxing professionals handle longer hair, coarse hair, you name it. If they absolutely need to, they’ll trim your hair at your session. You don’t want to risk trimming it too short.
Longer hair doesn’t mean a more painful session, either. It’s a common misconception, but it’s completely untrue. Trust your esthetician to provide you the best waxing experience possible!
Post-wax care
To get the most out of your waxing session, follow these post-wax care tips. Avoid ingrown hairs, shorten healing time, and promote healthy, clean skins with a simple regimen!
What to do and what not to do after your waxing session
You won’t have to do anything for the first 24 to 48 hours after your wax. Avoid hot water, sun exposure, swimming, or working out during this time as well. Your skin is sensitized after a wax, and these activities risk further irritation. Continue wearing loose fitting clothing, as well.
Once redness and sensitivity goes away, begin your regular exfoliating and moisturizing routine as usual. At Beach House Waxing, we recommend Fur Silk Scrub for exfoliating, and Fur Oil to moisturize and protect against ingrown hairs. No matter how itchy or annoying your skin is, under no circumstances ever should you pick at your skin!
Book your waxing appointment with Beach House Waxing
Once you’ve grown out your hair, head on over to our website to book your first waxing appointment with us! We’ll also be happy to answer any other questions you may have regarding any of our waxing services. We hope to see you soon!
