Pregnancy And Waxing: Is Hollywood Wax Safe?

Pregnancy can be an exciting time, but it also comes with a lot of physical and emotional changes. One of these changes is the growth of extra hair in unwanted places, such as the armpits, legs, bikini line, or pubic area. For many women, this can be embarrassing, and they may look for ways to remove it. One popular method is waxing, but is it safe during pregnancy?

According to experts, Brazilian or bikini waxing is generally considered safe for pregnant women and their babies. However, there are some important precautions to be aware of. It is recommended to visit an experienced and licensed esthetician and to ensure that the facility is clean and does not reuse wax or strips between clients, as this can increase the risk of bacterial infections. Reusing applicators or double-dipping them into the wax is also a health hazard.

Pregnancy can make the skin more sensitive, so waxing may be more painful than usual. It is crucial to inform the esthetician about your pregnancy so they can be extra gentle. Additionally, avoid waxing areas with skin conditions like acne or melasma, as it can irritate the skin further.

While waxing is generally safe, it is recommended to avoid it close to the due date, especially if a C-section is planned. Hair removal in the lower abdomen or pubic area can increase the risk of infection during surgery.

In conclusion, Brazilian or bikini waxing is generally safe during pregnancy, but it is important to be cautious and follow the necessary precautions to ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby.

It is safe to get a Hollywood wax during pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it also comes with a lot of physical changes, including increased hair growth in unwanted places. The good news is that it is generally considered safe to get a Hollywood wax during pregnancy. Here are some things to keep in mind if you're considering waxing during this time.

Choose a Reputable Salon

Firstly, it is important to choose a reputable salon with experienced and licensed estheticians. Ask about their work history and training. Make sure the facility is clean and hygienic, especially when it comes to waxing tools and materials. Reusing wax, strips, or applicators between clients can increase the risk of bacterial infections.

Skin Sensitivity

Due to increased blood flow to the skin during pregnancy, you may find that your skin is more sensitive than usual. Waxing may be more painful, and you may be more prone to skin irritation after waxing. To soothe your skin, wear loose clothing and use cold packs and oil-free moisturisers. Avoid hot showers or baths immediately after waxing.

Avoid Certain Areas

It is generally recommended to avoid waxing areas with skin conditions such as acne, rashes, or melasma, a common skin change during pregnancy. Waxing can irritate the skin and make these conditions worse. It is also important to avoid waxing sunburned skin. Additionally, hair removal around the pubic area is not recommended close to your due date, especially if you are planning a C-section.

At-Home Waxing

If you choose to use an at-home waxing kit, be sure to follow the directions carefully. Make sure the melted wax isn't too hot by testing it on the inside of your wrist. Maintain a sterile and clean environment when waxing at home.

Alternative Methods

If you find that your skin is too sensitive for waxing, there are alternative methods of hair removal, such as shaving, tweezing, threading, or sugar waxing. However, always consult with your doctor before trying new hair removal methods during pregnancy.

Increased sensitivity and pain

During pregnancy, your skin becomes more sensitive due to increased blood flow. This can make waxing a more painful experience than usual. An increase in oestrogen levels during pregnancy can also lead to increased skin sensitivity.

If you are considering a Hollywood wax, it is important to be aware of this heightened sensitivity and the potential for increased pain. You may want to consider asking your esthetician to be as gentle as possible and to test the wax on a small area of your skin first.

Additionally, you can take steps to minimise discomfort by taking Tylenol an hour before the treatment, with your doctor's approval. After the treatment, you can soothe your skin by wearing loose clothing and using cold packs and oil-free moisturisers.

It is worth noting that the pain associated with waxing may be more intense in the pelvic area, so a bikini or Brazilian wax may be particularly uncomfortable.

If you are concerned about the potential for increased pain, you may want to consider alternative hair removal methods such as shaving, threading, or tweezing. These methods are generally considered safe during pregnancy and can be effective for removing unwanted hair.

Risk of infection

Waxing rips the hair out of the follicle, leaving microscopic wounds on the skin that can be vulnerable to bacterial infections.

Dr Vanessa Mackay, a spokeswoman for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, has warned that removing pubic hair leaves you at greater risk of infection. "Pubic hair offers a natural barrier to keep things clean, to decrease contact with viruses and bacteria, and to protect the tender skin of the area," she said.

According to Dr Mackay, pubic hair also helps to control the moisture of the area, decreasing the chances of yeast infections. "Shaving or waxing your pubic hair puts you at higher risk of contracting venereal disease, like genital warts," she added.

To reduce the risk of infection, it is important to go to a reputable salon with properly trained technicians. The salon should be clean and not reuse wax or strips between clients, as this can put you at risk for bacterial infections.

If you are waxing at home, make sure the melted wax isn't too hot by testing it on the inside of your wrist. Avoid waxing sunburned skin or areas with melasma, a common skin condition during pregnancy.

After waxing, the pores on the skin are more open and susceptible to infection. To reduce the risk of infection, clean the area twice a day with a mild cleanser and avoid hot showers or baths, as this can further irritate the skin. Wear loose clothing and use oil-free moisturisers that won't clog your pores.

Home waxing kits are safe

Home waxing kits are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, but there are a few precautions to keep in mind. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and comfortable waxing experience at home:

Precautions for Waxing During Pregnancy:

• It is recommended to consult with a licensed esthetician or dermatologist, especially if you are new to waxing or have sensitive skin. They can guide you on the best practices and products for your specific needs.
• Always perform a patch test on a small area of your skin before proceeding with a full waxing session. This will help you determine if your skin is reacting well to the wax and minimize the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
• Avoid waxing if you have recently had a skin procedure, are using skin-bleaching products, or are taking oral acne medications, retinol products, or antibiotics. Waxing over irritated or sensitive skin can lead to further skin issues.
• Ensure that the wax is not too hot before applying it to your skin. Test the temperature on the inside of your wrist to avoid burns.
• Keep the area being waxed clean and dry. Wash and gently exfoliate the skin beforehand to remove any dirt, oil, or dead skin cells that may interfere with the wax's adhesion.
• Trim the hair to the appropriate length, usually between 1/4 to 3/4 of an inch, for optimal waxing results.
• Choose waxing kits with ingredients like glyceryl rosinate and titanium dioxide, which act as a barrier and help prevent the wax from sticking to the skin.
• Wear loose clothing after waxing to avoid irritating the waxed area.
• Avoid hot showers or baths immediately after waxing, as your skin will be more sensitive.

Benefits of Home Waxing Kits:

• Home waxing kits offer convenience and privacy, allowing you to remove unwanted hair in the comfort of your own home.
• They are generally more affordable than salon waxing services, especially if you opt for reusable waxing kits.
• With practice, you can become skilled at waxing yourself and achieve long-lasting results. Waxing pulls hair from the root, and regular waxing can lead to finer hair growth over time.
• Home waxing kits give you control over the entire process, allowing you to customize the size and shape of the waxed area according to your preferences.

Tips for a Better Waxing Experience:

• Exfoliate the area a day or two before waxing to loosen ingrown hairs and improve your waxing results.
• Always use a clean applicator and avoid "double-dipping" to prevent the risk of bacterial infections.
• Pull the wax off in the opposite direction of hair growth for effective hair removal.
• Ease the pain of waxing by taking a deep breath and exhaling as you pull the wax off. You can also apply a numbing product beforehand or take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
• Use a soothing aftercare product, such as a serum containing calendula and tea tree oil, to calm the skin and prevent bumps.
• Exfoliate again 24 hours after waxing to prevent ingrown hairs and keep the skin smooth.

Avoid waxing close to the due date

Waxing is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but there are a few precautions to be aware of. One of these precautions is to avoid waxing close to your due date. Here are some reasons why it is advisable to avoid waxing close to your due date:

Risk of Infection

If you need to have a C-section, it is recommended that you avoid waxing or shaving your bikini area in the week before your due date. Shaving or waxing can irritate the hair follicles, increasing the risk of infection. If any hair needs to be removed for surgery, the surgical team will use clippers to remove it in the hospital.

Skin Sensitivity

Pregnancy hormones can make your skin more sensitive than usual, and waxing can be more painful as a result. The increased blood flow to your skin can make it super sensitive, especially in your pelvic area. This sensitivity may be heightened even further as you approach your due date, so it is best to avoid waxing at this time.

Unpredictability of Labour

It is hard to predict when you will go into labour, so booking a waxing appointment in advance may be futile. You may go into labour early and waste the money spent on waxing, or you may go overdue and end up with hair growth in the waxed area anyway.

Discomfort

While a Brazilian or Hollywood wax is always going to be uncomfortable, the discomfort may be heightened during pregnancy, especially as you get closer to your due date. The extra pain may not be worth the few weeks of not having to worry about pubic hair.

Alternative Methods

If you are close to your due date and feel that you need to remove hair from your bikini area, shaving may be a better option. While shaving won't give you the same long-lasting results as waxing, it is a quick and easy way to remove hair at home without the risk of irritation or infection.

Frequently asked questions