Waxing Prep & Aftercare: A 2-Day Checklist
Waxing is one of the most effective ways to achieve smooth, hair-free skin, but what you do before and after your appointment plays a huge role in your results. At Brightside Esthetics in Huntington Beach, CA, we want you to feel confident, comfortable, and informed every step of the way.
Whether it’s your first Brazilian or a regular maintenance visit, following a few easy steps can make all the difference in comfort, longevity, and skin health.
Two Days Before Your Wax
1. Gently Exfoliate
Lightly exfoliate the area 24–48 hours before your wax to remove dead skin and help free any trapped hairs. This step allows wax to adhere better to the hair, not your skin. Use a mild scrub or an exfoliating glove—avoid harsh acids or retinol before waxing.
2. Keep Skin Hydrated
Moisturized skin helps wax glide smoothly and reduces irritation. Stick with a lightweight, fragrance-free lotion leading up to your appointment.
3. Let It Grow (Just a Bit)
For best results, hair should be about the length of a grain of rice—roughly ¼ inch. Avoid shaving or trimming too close before your appointment.
4. Avoid Heavy Exercise or Tanning
Skip hot yoga, sunbathing, or spray tans 24 hours before your wax. Heat, sweat, and UV exposure can make skin more sensitive.
Day Of Your Appointment
1. Clean, But Don’t Moisturize
Arrive with clean, dry skin—free from oils, lotions, or deodorant in the area being waxed.
2. Wear Loose Clothing
Choose breathable, comfortable fabrics to prevent friction and irritation after your service.
3. Take a Deep Breath
If it’s your first time, know that the anticipation is usually worse than the actual wax. Your esthetician will guide you through every step and make sure you’re as comfortable as possible.
Aftercare: The First 48 Hours
1. Avoid Heat and Friction
For the first 24–48 hours, skip saunas, hot showers, tight clothing, or workouts. The skin is temporarily more sensitive, and friction or sweat can lead to irritation or ingrown hairs.
2. Hands Off
Avoid touching or scratching the area post-wax. Clean hands only if you must apply a soothing product.
3. Calm and Protect
Apply a gentle post-wax serum or aloe-based lotion to keep skin calm and hydrated. We use soothing, professional-grade products in-studio and can recommend the right one for home use.
4. Exfoliate Later—Not Now
Wait at least 48–72 hours before exfoliating again. Once your skin has calmed, regular exfoliation 2–3 times per week helps prevent ingrown hairs and keeps your skin smooth between appointments.
Bonus Tips for Long-Term Smoothness
Stay consistent. Regular waxing every 4–6 weeks helps hair grow back finer and slower.
Pair with body facials. Treatments like a Brightening Enzyme Back Facial or Hydration Rescue Facial can keep post-wax skin soft and healthy.
Communicate with your esthetician. We can tailor your service and aftercare based on your skin type or sensitivity.
Common Questions about Waxing
Does waxing make hair grow back thicker?
No. Regular waxing can actually cause hair to grow back finer over time since it weakens the follicle.
Can I wax if I’m using active skincare products?
If you’re using retinoids, exfoliating acids, or acne medications, let your esthetician know. We’ll help adjust your treatment safely.
Can I combine waxing with other treatments?
Yes, but timing matters. Avoid facials or chemical peels in the same area for at least 48–72 hours before or after your wax.
Experience the Brightside Way
At Brightside Esthetics in Huntington Beach, we combine expert technique with skin-focused care for every waxing service. From Brazilians to brows, we prioritize comfort, cleanliness, and long-term skin health.
