The Biggest Waxing Myths Debunked (Pain, Ingrowns, Hair Growth & More)
If you’ve avoided a Brazilian, bikini, or body wax because of something you heard, you’re not alone. At Brightside Esthetics in Huntington Beach, we focus on education and skin health so your waxing experience feels clean, comfortable, and confidence-building.
Let’s break down the most common waxing myths and get to the truth.
Myth 1: Waxing Is Extremely Painful
The truth: Waxing may cause brief discomfort, but it should never feel unbearable. Pain varies based on hair length, cycle timing, and skin sensitivity. At Brightside Esthetics, we use quality wax, expert technique, and proper skin prep to minimize discomfort. Clients are often surprised by how quick and manageable the process is, especially with consistent visits.
Why it matters: The more regularly you wax, the easier and more comfortable it becomes because the hair grows back finer over time.
Myth 2: Waxing Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker or Darker
The truth: Waxing does not thicken the texture or change the color of your hair. When wax removes the hair from the root, it weakens that hair follicle over time. This often leads to hair that grows back finer and softer.
If you have noticed coarse regrowth after shaving, that is because shaving cuts the hair bluntly at the surface. Waxing removes it entirely.
Myth 3: Ingrown Hairs Are Inevitable
The truth: Ingrowns are preventable when the skin is properly exfoliated, hydrated, and cared for. Most ingrowns come from dead skin buildup, tight clothing, or improper exfoliation after waxing. Poor waxing techniques can also contribute to ingrown hairs, but at Brightside Esthetics, we use top-quality products and expert wax technique over the last 13 years of experience.
To help prevent ingrowns:
Exfoliate gently 48 to 72 hours after your wax
Keep the area moisturized
Avoid friction and sweating right after your appointment
Stay on a consistent waxing schedule
Professional guidance makes a huge difference, and we give you easy aftercare tips at every visit.
Myth 4: You Should Shave Between Waxing Appointments
The truth: Shaving between waxing appointments disrupts your hair cycle and makes your next wax more uncomfortable. Waxing works best when the hair grows back at the same rate. Shaving resets that growth, making some hairs too short to wax at your next visit.
Stick to your waxing routine and avoid shaving in between sessions.
Myth 5: You Can Wax at Home and Get the Same Results
The truth: At-home waxing kits can cause burns, bruising, damaged skin, or broken hairs. Professional waxing uses high-quality wax, correct temperature control, and expert technique to protect your skin and remove hair cleanly.
At Brightside Esthetics, we focus on:
Proper sanitation
Correct hair removal angle
Minimizing skin trauma
Customized pre- and post-wax skin care
This ensures the smoothest, safest results.
Myth 6: Waxing Is Not Safe for Sensitive Skin
The truth: Sensitive skin can absolutely be waxed when it is done professionally and supported with proper aftercare. We always evaluate your skin first, adjust the type of wax used, and guide you through gentle care afterward to prevent irritation.
Many sensitive clients find waxing much more comfortable than shaving.
Myth 7: You Should Avoid Waxing While on Your Period
The truth: You can wax during your period as long as you wear a clean tampon or menstrual cup. You may feel slightly more sensitive, but the process is still quick and safe. If you prefer to wait, that is perfectly fine too.
How to Prepare for Your Wax at Brightside Esthetics
Hair should be at least the length of a grain of rice
Avoid tanning, sweating, and heavy exfoliation 24 hours before
Come with clean, dry skin
Wear comfortable clothing after your appointment
Follow aftercare guidance to prevent irritation and ingrown hairs
Consistent waxing visits every 4 to 6 weeks help maintain smooth results and reduce sensitivity long-term.
Experience a Better Waxing Routine at Brightside Esthetics
Whether you are brand new to waxing or looking for a studio that prioritizes comfort and skin health, Brightside Esthetics in Huntington Beach is here to make your experience smooth from start to finish.
✨ Book your waxing appointment or consultation and enjoy a cleaner, smoother, more confident waxing experience.
