3 Steps to Botch-Free Bikini Waxing
By Kendall Bitonte, GalTime Associate Producer
Whoever said beauty is pain seriously underestimated the preparations for bikini season. Diets, exercise and fake tanning procedures aside, long gone are the months of winter hibernation when a simple trim 'down there' would suffice. Summer time calls for desperate measures and while the minutes of a waxing session are far from pleasant, the benefits of a bikini wax are immediately evident and the results last.
But, the bikini wax can lead to complications if you're not careful. Reports of serious post-waxing infections over the past few years have raised the concerns of women. The worst case involved a 20-year-old who contracted cellulitis (a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissue) and hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) after a Brazilian style wax (report).
Other possible complications include folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) and burns.
But how concerned should you really be?
Dr. Ranella Hirsh, dermatologist, tells GalTime, "The risks involved in bikini waxing are few and those are operator dependent."
Related: Bikini Waxing 101
In other words, these cases are rare, but you still need to be vigilant about the salon you choose and your preparation.
"Check a salon's licensure and follow your gut - [the salon] should look and be clean. Ask questions about [the technician's] experience," she suggests.
Also follow these pointers, provided by Shoba: New York City's Hair Removal Expert, to have a successful and safe wax.
Before: Make sure you're "clean," "dry" and "hairy… at least ¼ inch of growth" before your appointment, so that the procedure goes smoothly. Also, women should not get a wax during their menstrual cycle or a week before and after because the body becomes more sensitive during that time.
During: Make sure the salon practices proper hygienic procedures… Waxing technicians always should wear gloves. Absolutely no 'double-dipping'! It's a dangerous, but common practice by waxing salons. Double-dipping occurs when a wax technician uses the same spatula for the entire treatment and re-dips the applicator into the vat of wax. This technique can increase the chances of potentially harmful bacteria spreading from one client to another.
Related: Gels, Lotions, Sprays: When It Comes to Sunscreen, Does It Matter?
After: Be gentle to your skin for 24-48 hours after a bikini wax treatment. Shoba tells its clients that the only thing that should have contact with the area is lukewarm water and antibacterial soap: no hot showers, moisturizers, tanning or sex for two days as the skin is very susceptible to bacteria that can potentially cause an infection. Shoba also encourages women to apply a hydrocortisone cream after an appointment to keep painful and unsightly ingrown hairs at bay. If the hairless skin is a little irritated, using a cold compress on the area may help.
Dr. Hirsch says women will recognize if they are having more serious complications if they experience prolonged redness, pain and discharge. She recommends you visit a dermatologist immediately if any of these symptoms arise.
With a little careful preparation, safe waxing technique, conscientious after care… and a grin to bear the pain… your bikini will thank you. Happy Swim-Suiting!
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