Waxing is a great way to get smooth skin, but it can lead to the frustrating and uncomfortable condition of folliculitis. Don’t let that stop you from waxing your skin.
I’m going to share how to prevent folliculitis after waxing, so you get super smooth skin, without the itchy and annoying red bumps all over your skin, when using your hair removal method of choice. So, keep on reading to find out more…
What Is Folliculitis?
Folliculitis is a common skin condition where your hair follicles become inflamed. It’s often caused by an infection with bacteria, such as staph bacteria.
When hair follicles are damaged or irritated due to waxing, you may be more likely to develop folliculitis, or a wash after waxing.
Forms of folliculitis is usually noticeable in various forms, such as superficial folliculitis (hot tub rash) and deep folliculitis.
Superficial folliculitis, including hot tub folliculitis, occurs when bacteria affect the part of your hair follicle closest to the skin’s surface.
It can cause red, round bumps or pustules that resemble small acne spots. Whereas, deep folliculitis occurs when the infection goes deeper, affecting the entire hair follicle.
This type of folliculitis can be more painful and may require medical attention, from your healthcare provider.
Typically, symptoms of folliculitis include red, swollen hair follicles with white or fluid-filled razor bumps that last for a few days.
As your hair grows, you might notice ingrown hairs that contribute to the development of folliculitis after waxing.
You need to recognize the appearance and symptoms of this skin condition, so you can take proper care of your skin after waxing sessions.
Folliculitis due to waxing usually results from the damage or irritation of your hair follicles, making them more prone to infection.
While waxing is a popular method for removing unwanted hair, folliculitis may be an unwanted side effect if you don’t properly care for your skin. However, there are ways to prevent this condition and improve the health of your skin.
What Causes Folliculitis After Waxing?
Folliculitis after waxing is usually caused by a combination of factors, such as ingrown hairs, dead skin cells, and stress to the surrounding skin during the waxing session.
As a result, sensitive skin can become more prone to inflammation, which may lead to the formation of pus-filled, itchy bumps.
During the hair removal process, your hair may be damaged, causing it to grow back into the skin rather than up and out.
This typically happens when the hair is cut, broken, or removed unevenly. Ingrown hairs are known to create stress for the surrounding skin, leading to folliculitis.
Plus, dead skin cells can clog hair follicles, causing the hair to become trapped beneath the skin. In such cases, the hair continues to grow back into the skin instead of out, causing irritation and inflammation.
Waxing can help remove dead skin cells from the surface, yet at times, it can also cause damage or irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.
An allergic reaction to the waxing products or a reaction to the waxing method itself can cause folliculitis.
Another factor that contributes to the development of folliculitis is the presence of bacteria on the skin.
Waxing can create micro-abrasions in the skin, making it easier for these bacteria to infect the hair follicles.
Inflammation is a usual response to the infection, leading to those red, itchy bumps that may appear after a waxing session.
Lastly, wearing tight clothing after a waxing session can contribute to the development of folliculitis, as the friction between your waxed skin and clothing can irritate and trap bacteria in the hair follicles.
How To Prevent Folliculitis After Waxing
Avoid Tight Clothing
To help prevent folliculitis and ingrown hairs post waxing, avoid wearing tight clothing on the waxed area.
Tight clothes can cause friction, irritation, and trap sweat, leading to bumps and inflammation. Opt for loose, breathable fabrics to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection after waxing.
Use a Warm Compress
Using a warm compress on your skin before waxing can help open up the pores and soften the hair, making it easier to remove during the waxing process.
It can help reduce the risk of ingrown hairs and folliculitis. Make sure to cleanse the area with warm water and soap before applying the compress.
Keep the Skin Moisturized and Hydrated
Properly moisturizing and hydrating your skin after waxing is essential in preventing folliculitis.
Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to help relieve irritation and keep the area clean. Make sure to pat the skin dry before applying the moisturizer.
Wear Loose Clothing After Waxing
In the days following your waxing session, always wear loose, breathable clothing to allow your skin to heal properly.
This prevents friction and irritation which can contribute to the development of folliculitis.
Avoid Hot Tubs and Swimming Pools After Waxing
For at least a week after waxing, avoid hot tubs and swimming pools as they can harbor bacteria that might cause infection.
This will help prevent “hot tub rash,” a type of folliculitis associated with entering contaminated water post-waxing.
Gently Exfoliate Your Skin Regularly
Gently exfoliating your skin can help prevent ingrown hairs and keep the area clean. A few days before waxing, use a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and promote healthy skin renewal.
Opt for chemical exfoliants rather than physical ones, as these are less likely to cause micro-tears in the skin.
Use Cold or Cool Compress After Waxing
Applying a cold or cool compress to the waxed area immediately after the session can help reduce inflammation, redness, and discomfort.
This can also prevent bumps after waxing by soothing the skin and minimizing folliculitis risk.
How To Treat Folliculitis After Waxing Treatment
Folliculitis is an irritation or infection that occurs in the hair follicles, usually caused by bacteria, fungi, or occasionally a viral infection.
Symptoms of folliculitis can include redness, inflammation, itching, pus-filled bumps, and sometimes ingrown hairs around the affected area.
Keep the area clean. You should gently cleanse the affected area with warm water and a mild soap.
Avoid using harsh or scented products that might irritate the skin even more. Pat the skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing, to minimize any extra irritation.
Exfoliating cleansers with ingredients like salicylic acid can help remove dead skin cells and unclog hair follicles.
Look for a formula with antibacterial properties to help combat folliculitis-causing bacteria, such as Truly’s Cherry Jelly Body Cleanser.
Applying a warm compress to the affected area can also help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
Soak a clean cloth in warm water and hold it against the affected area for up to 20 minutes, several times a day.
Certain medications might be necessary for more severe cases of folliculitis. Your healthcare provider may recommend antibiotic lotions, gels, or oral antibiotics, depending on the type and severity of the infection.
To minimize the risk of infection and irritation after waxing, it’s essential to maintain good skin hygiene and follow your waxing professional’s aftercare instructions.
This may include avoiding tight clothing, perfumed products, or excessive sweating, as well as refraining from picking or scratching at the affected area.
Lastly, be aware that a mild stinging sensation is normal after waxing. You can apply aloe vera gel or a soothing lotion to the affected area to help calm the skin and reduce irritation.
How To Soothe Irritation And Bumps After Waxing
It’s natural for your skin to feel a bit irritated and sensitive after a waxing session.
Here are a few tips to help soothe the irritation and reduce the risk of developing folliculitis:
- Apply a cold compress: Immediately after waxing, apply a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area. This will help alleviate pain and redness. Make sure to wrap the ice in a clean cloth to avoid direct contact with your skin.
- Exfoliate gently: Exfoliating your skin before and after waxing can help prevent bumps and ingrown hairs. Use a gentle exfoliating cleanser or scrub, focusing on the areas that were waxed. Be sure not to overdo it, as you don’t want to irritate your skin even more.
- Keep it clean: Keep your skin clean after waxing to avoid introducing dirt and bacteria that might cause infections. Gently cleanse the affected area with a mild, fragrance-free soap, and make sure to wash your hands before touching your freshly waxed skin.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing: Tight clothing can cause friction and irritation to your skin after waxing. Opt for loose-fitting garments that allow your skin to breathe and avoid unwanted contact with the waxed areas.
- Use soothing products: Look for products with soothing ingredients, like aloe vera or chamomile, to help calm your skin post-waxing. Apply these products to the affected areas to provide relief and reduce inflammation.
- Avoid picking and scratching: It’s tempting to pick at or scratch your skin when it’s irritated, but doing so can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of folliculitis. Resist the urge and allow your skin to heal on its own.
Summary
Waxing is a great way to get smooth skin, but it can lead to the frustrating and uncomfortable condition of folliculitis.
To prevent this, make sure to take extra care before and after waxing sessions. Avoid tight clothing, keep the skin moisturized and hydrated, wear loose clothing afterward, avoid hot tubs or swimming pools after waxing and gently exfoliate your skin regularly.
If you do develop folliculitis, be sure to treat it properly with a warm compress, gentle cleansing products such as Truly’s Cherry Jelly Body Cleanser, cold compresses and medications from your healthcare provider if necessary.
Finally, soothe irritation or bumps with aloe vera gel or a soothing lotion for best results.
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