Top 5 Myths About Waxing Debunked

Waxing is a popular method for hair removal and although around 90% of women and 46% of men in the United States have tried some form of waxing, there are still many misconceptions about waxing today. From concerns about pain to misunderstandings about how waxing affects hair growth, these myths can deter people from experiencing the full benefits of waxing. In this post, I’ll debunk five of the most common myths about waxing, so you can feel more confident and informed when considering this effective hair removal option.

Myth #1: Waxing is Extremely Painful

Yes, waxing can be uncomfortable, but it’s not as painful as many people believe. When waxing, the hair is removed from the root, which is close to nerve endings, so some level of discomfort is normal. However, with a carefully formulated wax and proper technique, the process can be made significantly more comfortable.

At Skin Sanctuary, we use Honeycomb Wax Co., which has several gentle yet highly effective formulas. Th wax melts at a lower temperature, making it more comfortable on the skin during application. Its extreme flexibility also makes the removal process easier and less irritating.

I typically prefer using hard wax over soft wax because it adheres only to the hair, not the skin. This results in a less painful removal process since the wax isn’t exfoliating or tugging at your skin. After each pull, I apply pressure to the area to help ease any discomfort. The sensation lasts only a few seconds, but the smooth, long-lasting results will stay with you for weeks!

Myth #2: Waxing Causes Hair to Grow Back Thicker and/or Darker

When it comes to waxing, your hair actually grows back the same color but thinner. This is because waxing removes the hair from the root, unlike shaving or using depilatory creams, which only cut the hair at the surface. Over time, regular waxing can lead to a noticeable decrease in hair thickness, and in some cases, hair may stop growing altogether in areas that are consistently waxed!

Myth #3: Waxing Leads to Ingrown Hairs

While ingrown hairs can occur after waxing, this is true for all hair removal methods. In fact, you're generally less likely to get ingrown hairs with waxing since it removes hair from the root. However, some individuals, particularly those with curly hair, are more prone to ingrown hairs than others. The good news is that you can minimize the risk by properly caring for the skin after waxing.

Gently exfoliating the area 1-2 times a week and applying moisturizer daily helps prevent dry skin buildup, which can trap hairs as they grow back. Additionally, using an ingrown hair serum, like Hive Daily (available for purchase at Skin Sanctuary), can further reduce the chances of ingrowns. Ingrown treatments are effective because they contain exfoliating, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial ingredients that keep the skin smooth and healthy, allowing the hair to slide out of the skin when growing back.

Myth #4: You Can’t Wax if You Have Sensitive Skin

All skin types can be safely waxed with the right products and techniques, and at Skin Sanctuary, we prioritize your skin's health and comfort. All the waxes we use are hypoallergenic, making them suitable even for sensitive or reactive skin. Honeycomb Wax Co. offers a specially formulated hard wax for sensitive skin, ensuring an even gentler experience for the most sensitive skin while still being highly effective.

If you're concerned about how your skin might react, I’m more than happy to schedule a patch test to assess your skin’s response before waxing an entre area. This way, we can ensure a smooth, irritation-free experience tailored to your specific skin needs. We also take additional precautions, such as applying soothing pre- and post-wax care, to minimize redness and irritation. Your comfort is our top priority!

Myth #5: Waxing is Just For Women

Men’s waxing services are becoming more popular every year because men love the long-lasting results of waxing just as much as women! Waxing offers a smooth, clean finish that lasts much longer than shaving, and for many men, it’s a convenient way to maintain well-groomed skin without the hassle of daily maintenance.

Men choose waxing for a variety of reasons, from enhancing their athletic performance (like swimmers or cyclists who prefer hair-free skin) to improving hygiene and overall appearance. Waxing also reduces the likelihood of razor burn, cuts, and ingrown hairs, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin or those who want to avoid the irritation that often comes with shaving. Plus, over time, waxing can lead to thinner, sparser hair regrowth, which many men appreciate for its low-maintenance benefits. My most popular men’s waxing services are for backs and eyebrows.

General Tips for Before Your Waxing Appointment

In addition to exfoliating and moisturizing regularly, it’s important to discontinue active ingredients and exfoliants such as retinol, AHAs, and BHAs at least 72 hours before your waxing appointment. If you’ve previously shaved the area, avoid shaving for at least two weeks prior to waxing. Your hair should be about the length of a grain of rice—this is the ideal length for the wax to effectively grip the hair. If your hair is longer, waxing is still possible, but it may be more uncomfortable as the hair is pulled from further away from the root. Also, be sure to avoid showering immediately before your appointment, as wax does not adhere well to wet or damp skin.

I hope you learned something new from this post. If you have any questions about waxing, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jenn