Waxing is a quick and efficient way to remove hair from parts of the body. It is also common for bumps to develop on the skin after waxing.

Mostly, people observe small, red bumps on the skin immediately after waxing but some others notice them about a week later. Whichever the case may be, we would outlining the causes as well as the treatment.

Causes

Contact dermatitis

This occurs due to an allergic reaction or irritation.

The irritations could be caused by fragranced soaps or detergents. However, the wax and any chemicals it contains may also contribute. The bumps that occur after are very itchy. Below are the symptoms;

• Skin peeling
• a stinging sensation
• swelling
• Burning

Folliculitis

This causes itchy bumps that may have a red ring around them. They sometimes also look similar to those of acne.

Folliculitis occurs due to damage of follicles following waxing. When Follicles are damaged, they are more prone to invading bacteria. When bacteria like staph bacteria, which are naturally present on the skin infect the hair follicles, folliculitis can occur.

It is advisable not to wear tight clothing as this would worsen the situation.

Ingrown hair

This  could appear about a week after waxing. Ingrown hairs occur when the hair grows and reinserts itself into the hair follicle(downward growth). Ingrown hairs also causes itching and painful bumps that often look like acne on the skin. If not treated, ingrown hairs can become infected.

Treatment

Below are some home remedies that can soothe bumps after waxing:

• Cleansing the skin: Using a gentle soap and warm water to cleanse the skin can help minimize irritants. Gently pat the skin dry to avoid further irritation.
• Using cold compresses: Applying a cold compress to the area can help soothe irritation and reduce post-waxing bumps. A person can run cold water over a washcloth and apply it to the skin.
• Wearing loose clothing: Not wearing tight clothing for 1–2 days after waxing can help keep the fibers from rubbing against the skin and causing irritation.
• Using warm compresses: Warm compresses are helpful for ingrown hairs, as they can help the pores open up and potentially release the ingrown hair.
• Using cortisone cream: Applying cortisone cream to clean skin after waxing may help relieve inflammation and swelling.
• Applying fragrance free moisturizers: Applying fragrance free moisturizers, such as aloe vera gel, may help soothe irritated skin post-waxing and reduce inflammation.

Don’t forget to book a wax appointment with our beauty therapists.