Waxing 101: What to Expect Before, During & After Your Appointment

A beginner-friendly guide to smooth skin—safely and confidently

Waxing Treatment in Timmins

If you’re new to waxing or it’s been a while since your last appointment, it’s completely normal to feel a little unsure about what to expect. Whether you're prepping for your first bikini wax, booking a brow cleanup, or going all in with a full-body service, proper education and preparation are key to making your experience comfortable and effective.

We want every waxing session to feel empowering, hygienic, and relaxed. This guide walks you through everything—from pre-waxing prep to post-care—so you can walk into your appointment with confidence and walk out feeling smooth.

Before Your Wax: Pre-Appointment Prep

1. Skip Harsh Skincare Ingredients

At least 5–7 days before your appointment, pause the use of any retinol, tretinoin, or other vitamin A derivatives on the area to be waxed. These ingredients increase skin sensitivity and can cause irritation or lifting.

Also avoid:

• Chemical peels

• Microdermabrasion or laser treatments

• Accutane (must wait at least 6 months after stopping use)

If you’re unsure whether a product you’re using is safe, ask your esthetician before your service.

2. Exfoliate—Gently

24–48 hours before your appointment, use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin cells. This helps lift trapped hairs and improves wax adhesion. Avoid exfoliating on the same day of your appointment to prevent skin sensitivity.

3. Let It Grow (Just a Bit)

Hair should be about the length of a grain of rice (¼ inch) for effective removal. Avoid shaving before your appointment—too-short hair won’t adhere to the wax.

4. Keep Skin Clean and Dry

On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean, dry skin—no lotion, oil, or makeup on the treatment area. These can interfere with the wax’s ability to grip hair.

During Your Appointment: What to Expect

At Bliss, our trained estheticians are committed to comfort, professionalism, and hygiene. Here's what you can expect during your waxing service:

Professional Guidance

Your esthetician will walk you through the entire process: what to expect, what position to be in (especially for intimate waxing), and how the wax will feel. Don’t worry—we keep things respectful and supportive.

Types of Wax

We use high-quality soft or hard wax, depending on the area of the body and your skin type. Hard wax is often used for sensitive areas (like underarms or bikini) because it adheres to the hair, not the skin.

Does It Hurt?

Let’s be honest—waxing can sting, especially the first time. But the discomfort is brief and lessens over time with regular appointments. Many clients report it gets easier with consistency.

Communication is Key

Always let your esthetician know if:

• You’re using new skincare or medications

• You’re nervous or need a moment to breathe

• You have sensitive skin or a low pain tolerance

We’re here to support you.

Aftercare: Post-Waxing Dos & Don’ts

Your skin will likely feel slightly pink or sensitive for a few hours afterward—this is totally normal. Here's how to care for your freshly waxed skin:

🚫 Avoid (for 24–48 hours):

• Hot tubs, saunas, or steam rooms

• Heavy workouts (sweat can irritate open follicles)

• Tanning (sun or tanning beds)

• Harsh exfoliants or active skincare

• Tight clothing that causes friction

• Touching or scratching the area

✅ Do:

• Apply a soothing aloe gel or post-wax lotion (ask your esthetician for a recommendation)

• Use cool compresses if redness persists

• Keep skin hydrated and exfoliated regularly (starting 48–72 hours post-wax) to help prevent ingrown hairs

How Often Should You Wax?

Most clients return every 4–6 weeks depending on their hair growth cycle and desired smoothness. With consistent waxing, hair grows back finer and softer, and discomfort decreases over time.

Final Tips for First-Timers

• Take a mild pain reliever (like ibuprofen) 30 minutes before your appointment if you're concerned about discomfort

• Don’t wax right before a big event—give yourself at least 24–48 hours to let redness subside

• Communicate openly with your esthetician—we’re here to make your experience positive and stress-free

At Bliss Beauty + Wellness, we believe waxing should be safe, empowering, and rooted in body-positive care. Whether you're new to waxing or a seasoned pro, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to try waxing with confidence?

Learn more about our services at www.blissbeautywellness.com, or connect with us on Instagram for real-time tips and behind-the-scenes insights.

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