​Allow for growth

Debbie Thompson, owner of Radiance Skin Clinic in Fort Myers, Florida, says preparing for a facial wax begins with making sure that there is enough hair to wax. Particularly if you’re a "regular" waxer or plucker, you’ll need to wait at least two to four weeks after either process to ensure that hair is long enough for the wax to "grab." She explains that attempting to wax without enough hair will cause you to rip skin, and not the hair. (Translation: Ouch!)

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Examine your palette

Debbie advises that having a "clean" skin palette is the key to prepping your face for waxing, and has as much to do with what's not present — as well as what is. Make sure the face is free of any injured areas which includes minor cuts, irritated pimples, or a sunburn. If you’re taking antibiotics or are on a course of medical skin treatment(s) such as Accutane, Retinol, Retin-A, or Renova, hold off on waxing until you have finished the medication and the chemicals are out of your system.

That being said, don’t get too carried away with your prep. Unlike recommendations for body waxing, Debbie says you should never exfoliate before waxing the face. Consider environmental and hormonal factors too. Because skin is more sensitive in the time shortly before you get your period, consider your cycle as part of your pre-wax prep plan. If you’re pregnant, you are more likely to be sensitive to waxing, and diabetics typically take longer to heal after a wax. Chemicals that you’ve ingested can also impact your pain tolerance. Debbie says that caffeine is thought to increase sensitivity in the skin, so skip the coffee, tea, soda and even chocolate on the day you’ll wax your face.

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On wax day​

Make sure your face is free of any lotions or cremes, including acne or anti-aging facial products on wax day. Skip the sunbathing on that day too — it will make your face extra-sensitive.

 

Lip - $12

Cheeks -  $20

Chin - Starting at $15

Eyebrow Shaping - $20