Unveiling the Side Effects of Facial Waxing: What You Need to Know

Tired of pesky peach fuzz and the occasional rogue chin hair? Facial waxing may be your solution for silky-smooth skin and the flawless makeup finish you crave.

We know what you’re thinking: waxing my legs and arms is one thing, but my face—that’s next level. Yet, you'd be surprised how popular this hair removal method is among beauty enthusiasts. 

At MD GLAM, we're committed to helping you navigate the world of facial waxing and determine if it fits your beauty regimen. Trust us—it’s not as scary as it might seem.

Today, we’ll peel back the layers; from potential side effects to essential waxing precautions. Our goal? To deliver all the facial waxing insights you need before taking the plunge.

Understanding Facial Waxing: How Does It Work?

Facial waxing swiftly removes unwanted hair using wax, pulling it from the root through repetitive tugs.

As for what parts of your face can be waxed? Anywhere! Most target problem spots like the upper lip, eyebrows, sideburns, or chin, but your entire face is fair game.

Stand-out perks to facial waxing include:

• Lasts between five to eight weeks
• Removes hair at the follicle
• Hair grows back finer over time
• Deeply exfoliates the skin
• Makeup and skincare go on smoother

That said, a few caveats are worth discussing.

Common Side Effects of Facial Waxing

Facial waxing is many people's go-to hair removal method, but it’s not always suitable for everyone. Potential side effects include:

Pain

The wax pulling hair from the root can cause a sharp, stinging sensation. While brief, it can be intense, especially for newbies or those with low pain thresholds.

Redness

A natural reaction, facial waxing redness usually subsides within a few hours, lingering longer for some.

Skin Irritation

Itchiness, tenderness, or a slight burning sensation after waxing is a common reaction. 

Inflammation

This is more common in sensitive skin types or if the waxing is done too aggressively. 

Ingrown Hairs

These occur when the hair grows back into the skin instead of rising from the follicle. 

Breakouts

This can result from your skin's reaction to the wax or the open follicles being clogged with oil or dirt post-wax.

Less Common but Possible Side Effects

• Bruising
• Burns
• Allergic reactions
• Swelling
• Blisters or bumps
• Infection
• Hypo/Hyperpigmentation
• Scarring
• Textural changes
• Cold sores
• Bleeding
• Numbness
  

Everyone’s skin is unique, which means reactions can vary from person to person. This unpredictability is precisely why having a trusted, professional esthetician in your corner is important—but more on that later.

First, let’s touch on different elements that affect how your skin reacts to facial waxing.

Factors Influencing Side Effects

Several factors can sway your skin's response to facial waxing. Understanding these can help you prep for the best possible outcome. 

Speaking of aftercare…

Waxing Precautions and Aftercare

The journey to silky-soft, hairless skin goes beyond your waxing session. Proper prep and aftercare can make all the difference in keeping your skin looking and feeling its best.

Here are a few simple steps to maximize facial waxing:

Waxing Precautions:

1. Gently exfoliate your skin a day or two before your waxing appointment. This helps remove dead skin cells and paves the way for a smoother waxing process.

1. Avoid direct sunlight for at least 24 hours before waxing to prevent increased sensitivity.

1. Skip the makeup on wax-day. A clean, bare face ensures the wax adheres properly to your hair.

1. Take an OTC pain reliever about an hour before your appointment if you're concerned about pain.

Post-Wax Aftercare:

1. Apply a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to calm the skin. MD GLAM's DMAE Antioxidant Day Moisturizer is enriched with aloe vera, ideal for calming and nourishing the skin post-wax.

1. For the first 24 hours, avoid products with harsh ingredients (like retinol or glycolic acid) that can irritate freshly waxed skin.

1. Wear broad-spectrum SPF, like Sunshout Sunscreen SPF 50, which contains skin-loving ingredients like Coconut Oil and Vitamin E to nurture and replenish skin after a wax.

1. We get it—that newly smooth, fuzz-free skin is irresistible. But resist the urge to touch freshly waxed skin to keep bacteria at bay and avoid breakouts.

1. To avoid facial waxing redness, irritation, and even burns, skip the hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms for at least 24 hours.

With the right TLC, your skin will be thanking you for days to come. 

Still don’t think waxing is your cup of tea? Don’t worry, you have other routes to hair-free, radiant skin.

Alternatives to Facial Waxing

Waxing is a popular choice for many, but it's not the only hair removal option out there. If you're wary of the side effects or are simply curious about other methods, we’ve got you covered.

Here are some techniques that might be better suited for your skin type, pain tolerance, or personal preference:

• Threading (uses twisted thread to pluck hair from the root)

• Sugaring (uses a paste made from sugar, lemon juice, and water to pull out hair)

• Laser hair removal (targets hair follicles with laser light, preventing regrowth)

• Depilatory creams (contain chemicals that break down hair’s protein, allowing it to be easily wiped away)

• Electrolysis (uses electric current to destroy hair follicles and prevent regrowth)

Ultimately, the best hair removal method is the one that leaves you feeling confident and comfortable in your skin. 

Need help determining which fares best with your complexion? Consult a pro.

Consulting a Professional vs. DIY Waxing

In this era of DIY beauty treatments and at-home spa kits, it's tempting to take matters into your own hands. But when it comes to something as intricate as facial waxing, entrusting your skin to the hands of a professional esthetician may be best.

Here’s why:

DIY waxing saves time and money, but a professional esthetician's expertise and tailored touch remain unmatched. 

After all, your face is your signature to the world—doesn't it deserve top-tier care?

MD GLAM: The Final Touch to Flawless Skin

Smooth, hair-free skin is alluring, but prioritizing choices that foster your complexion’s health and well-being is a must. 

We hope this guide has shed light on facial waxing, empowering you to navigate your hair removal journey with all the confidence in the world.

The best way to support your skin pre and post-wax? Fortify your skin with luxurious, medical-grade skincare packed with ingredients to meet your skin's every need.

Shop MD GLAM today.