Full Face Waxing (Pros And Cons)
Waxing can create a smooth and hairless appearance within one swipe.
Wax is most commonly applied to larger body areas like the legs or arms.
However, you can wax your face to achieve the same smooth results that last longer than a shave.
Performing a full face wax can be more intimidating than waxing the body.
This is because you have smaller areas requiring a precise wax application.
Investing in your wax products is crucial because the skin on the face is more delicate.
What are the pros and cons of full-face waxing?
Some people prefer full face waxing because it pulls hair right from the root, so that you won’t get stubbly like with shaving. However, face waxing can also be slightly painful and lead to skin irritation.
Waxing, like other beauty services, is an art form. To keep your skin safe, you’ll need to master a specific technique for each facial area.
Full-face waxing can offer numerous benefits when applied by a pro using high-quality products.
Full face waxing will provide results that last longer than shaving and can be worth the slight discomfort in the long run.
So, what else should you know about full-face waxing before dipping your spatula in the wax pot? Read on!
Can You Wax Your Face?
Waxing the face can be just as common as waxing body hair.
You’ll notice that salons and spas will provide numerous waxing services for the face, including eyebrows, upper lip, and sideburns.
Each facial area will have a different cost added to it.
However, you can also learn how to wax your face at home professionally.
Waxing Vs Shaving Facial Hair
Why would you choose to wax your entire face rather than shave?
All facial hair removal methods can potentially cause some irritation.
However, waxing will pull the hair right out from the root, while shaving will cut the hair only at the surface.
Waxing will provide longer-lasting results than shaving, which can minimise skin irritation over the long run.
Pros Of Full Face Waxing
You can gain multiple benefits from waxing that make its temporary discomfort worth the process.
You may notice a smoother finish because some waxes will stick to the skin, but these types of waxes may not be suitable for vulnerable skin.
Other benefits include receiving a precise application, long-lasting results, and more.
Smooth Results
We know that waxing offers a smoother and cleaner finish.
It does so by removing hair at the root, so you don’t have to worry about any stubble in the coming days, unlike shaving.
It may also offer a slight exfoliating benefit.
Waxing can quickly leave a hairless complexion that is easier to maintain than shaving.
Long-Lasting
Why shave every day when you can wax every few weeks?
Waxing results can last anywhere from 2–4 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows.
This can minimise facial irritation by allowing the skin to heal for a few weeks, if needed, before another service.
Over time, your hair can grow sparser and become more accessible to wax.
Precise Application
Waxing can give you a crisp and clean finish.
The wax can be applied in a strip to create a clean line. This precise application will help achieve a smooth, seamless result.
It comes in handy, especially for smaller areas like the eyebrows.
You can control where you apply the wax and how much.
Creates Symmetry
Finally, waxing can promote a more symmetrical facial structure.
For example, maybe one eyebrow has a different shape than the other.
You can map out your ideal brow shape and wax away unnecessary hairs to achieve even, symmetrical eyebrows.
Some people choose to clean up their hairline to achieve a clean, even appearance.
Cons Of Full Face Waxing
While waxing can provide countless benefits, it may not be for everyone.
All beauty services have their cons, and waxing can be highly intimidating.
In addition, waxing is often painful and uncomfortable, though the experience can vary by person.
Also, you may get used to waxing after more sessions.
So, what are some cons of waxing?
Ingrown Hairs
Various hair-removal methods can put you at risk of ingrown hairs.
Multiple factors can determine the success of your wax, including technique, product, and hair length.
Sometimes, if the hair is too long, it will break rather than be pulled from the root.
However, you can also prevent ingrown hairs with a gentle exfoliation routine or the proper prep for waxing.
Skin Irritation
Another con of waxing is skin irritation.
It may be expected that your skin will break out or react poorly to the wax.
You can even worsen your experience by applying chemical exfoliants or retinoids to the face before your waxing session.
Also, some skin types are generally more sensitive than others, so always pick out the best wax for your skin type.
Pain
The most common con or side effect of waxing is pain. Some waxes will produce more pain than others.
There are other things to consider, like some people have a higher pain tolerance than others, or are used to waxing for years.
Pain can be diminished with over-the-counter painkillers or numbing creams before waxing, but always check with your doctor first.
More Complicated Than Shaving
Individuals who are new to waxing may find the process more complicated than shaving.
Instead of a razor and shaving cream, you’ll need many more tools to wax at home.
For example, you’ll need wax, sticks, a wax warmer, and pre- and post-wax products.
This can be costly to buy all at once, but it’s worth the investment if you plan to wax at home long term.
How Often Should You Wax Your Face?
How frequently can you wax your face?
It can depend heavily on the area you’re waxing, like the inner ears, eyebrows, chin, etc.
However, the general rule is to wait 2–3 weeks before doing another full face wax.
Some individuals can wait up to four weeks, depending on how fast their hair grows.
How Long Does The Hair Need To Be For Waxing?
Another reason to wait for the hair to grow is that it needs to be a specific length for waxing.
Hair that is too long or too short can make the waxing process difficult. The ideal hair length for waxing should be ¼ inch.
This will ensure there is enough hair for the wax to grab onto, but not so much that it breaks instead of being pulled at the root.
How To Wax The Face At Home
How can you have a seamless full-face wax at home?
First, ensure you have all the tools required for the pre-wax, during-wax, and post-wax phases.
Your skin should be prepared to handle the wax and also soothed once the waxing is complete.
It may take some practice to achieve the ideal wax routine.
Pre-Wax
The first phase of waxing is the pre-wax.
This phase includes all the prep required for a successful waxing session.
You’ll need to avoid applying certain skincare products, choose the right wax, and avoid shaving beforehand.
This is where you will also add any pre-waxing products before the wax.
Avoid Chemical Exfoliants And Retinoids
To prepare for waxing, avoid certain skincare products in your routine.
For example, chemical exfoliants and retinoids can exfoliate the skin’s surface layer and can cause an adverse reaction when paired with wax.
Combining these products can increase the risk of irritation across the face.
Avoid Shaving
Another thing to avoid before a full face wax is shaving.
This can disrupt the hair and hinder your waxing results.
If you find that your facial hair is too long, you may be able to shorten it with manicure scissors or a trimmer.
Invest In Pre-Wax Products For Your Skin Type
You’ll want to invest in the right pre-wax products.
These products are often pre-waxing oils that can prepare the skin for waxing.
Additionally, the oils will create a protective barrier between the skin and wax, resulting in a more pleasant experience.
The right prep products can even enhance your waxing results, resulting in a smoother complexion.
Choose The Right Wax
You’ll also want to choose the right wax.
The most popular types of wax are hard and soft wax.
Hard wax is more suitable for delicate, sensitive areas like the face because it’s designed to cling to hair rather than skin.
Test Wax Temperature
Achieving the right wax temperature can be challenging without a wax warmer.
It’s helpful to invest in one for the best results.
You can test the waxing temperature on the palm of your thumb or on the inside of your wrist.
Testing the temperature will ensure you keep your face safe.
Apply Wax In The Direction Of Hair Growth
Mastering your waxing technique can take time and practice.
However, working slowly can ensure you get the best results at home.
You can incorporate a few waxing tips into your routine to help achieve a flawless full-face wax.
It’s crucial always to test the wax’s temperature to avoid facial burns.
Likewise, you’ll need to apply the wax in a specific direction for the best results.
It’s time to apply the wax after your skin is prepped.
It’s crucial to apply the wax in the direction of your hair growth.
This will thoroughly saturate the follicles, ensuring a clean pull when it’s ready for removal.
It will help achieve a seamless and smooth result.
Pull In The Opposite Direction Of Hair Growth
Each wax will have a different set time before it’s ready for removal.
However, it is generally good to wait a few seconds before pulling the wax.
When it’s time to pull off the wax, you’ll want to do so in the opposite direction of the hair growth.
This technique will ensure all the hairs are removed directly at the root.
Work In Sections
Finally, always work in small sections.
This can ensure you don’t accidentally wax off too much of your sideburns, eyebrows, or hairline.
It can also help you create precise wax lines all across the face.
Post-Wax
You’ll need to soothe and nourish your skin after you finish waxing.
This will minimise any irritation that could arise and maintain your results.
You’ll notice your skin will thank you for taking the time to nourish yourself with an invigorating wax session.
You can apply a post-wax oil and a soothing cream to finish your full-face wax.
Apply Post-Wax Oil To Remove Residue
Has your skin ever felt sticky after a wax?
This is most likely due to leftover wax on the skin that didn’t get removed.
An easy way to remove wax residue is with a post-wax oil, which instantly removes tacky areas from the skin.
Use A Soothing Cream
What can you do if your face is particularly dry or sensitive?
You can wash off the post-wax oil or apply a soothing cream on top.
You can easily lock in moisture and hydration with a cream after a wax.
It will also minimise the chance of irritation after your wax.
At-Home Full Face Wax Routine
So what is an easy, full-face wax routine you can do at home?
You can complete a full face wax in a few simple steps.
Prep The Skin
First, prep the skin.
This includes eliminating products from your skincare routine a few days before waxing and applying pre-wax oils.
The pre-waxing products will create a barrier between the skin and wax.
Preparing for wax can lead to better, smoother, and longer-lasting results, so please don’t miss this step!
Apply The Wax
Next, you’ll want to apply the wax. Again, you can work in small sections around the face to maintain your control over the wax.
A good rule of thumb is to apply the wax in the direction of your hair growth to achieve a saturated and complete finish.
Remove
When it’s time to remove the wax, pull it in the opposite direction from how you applied it.
You can also think about using the wax with the grain and pulling it against it for a smooth finish.
Apply Post-Wax Products
Continue the application and removal until the face is complete.
Also, avoid waxing over the same area twice to prevent irritation.
Once the waxing is done, take the time to nourish the skin with a post-wax oil or a soothing cream.
A post-wax oil can remove any wax residue, and a cream can help lock in hydration and maintain results.
Here’s a tutorial from Hard Wax Solutions on YouTube.
Waxing Nose Or Ears
Waxing the nose or ears can be a different experience that may not always be suitable at home.
First, you’ll need to create a blob of wax on an applicator, place it in the centre, and let it sit in the nose or ear before pulling.
However, always proceed with caution or see a professional.
Takeaway
Full-face waxing is an excellent way to achieve a smooth and even complexion.
Waxing can produce long-lasting results and potentially create sparse facial hair.
However, it can make you prone to ingrown hairs or skin irritation.
Regardless, it’s an excellent hair-removal method for keeping the face smooth and soft.
So, will you be trying a full face wax?
Related Articles
When Can You Shower After Waxing?
