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 applying wax like a pro and 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?Â
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.
However, you can also learn how to wax your face at home professionally.
Waxing Vs Shaving Facial HairÂ
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 minimize skin irritation over the long run.
Pros Of Full Face WaxingÂ
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 ResultsÂ
We know that waxing offers a smoother and cleaner finish. It does so by removing hair right at the root, so you don’t have to worry about any leftover stubble in the coming days, like with shaving. It may also offer a slight exfoliating benefit.
Waxing can quickly promote a hairless complexion that can be 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 minimize 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 and create a clean line. This precise application will help achieve that smooth and 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 off unnecessary hairs to get even and symmetrical eyebrows.
Some people choose to clean up their hairline to create an even and clean appearance.
Cons Of Full Face WaxingÂ
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 known to be painful and uncomfortable, but the experience can vary by person.
Also, you may get used to waxing the more sessions you attend. So, what are some cons of waxing?
Ingrown Hairs
Various hair removal methods can put you at risk for 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 instead of getting pulled from the root.Â
However, you can also prevent ingrown hairs with a gentle exfoliation routine or the proper prep for waxing.
Skin IrritationÂ
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.
PainÂ
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 ShavingÂ
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/post wax products.
This can be costly to buy all at first, but it’s worth the investment if you plan to wax at home for the long term.
How Often Should You Wax Your Face?
How frequently can you wax your face? It can heavily depend on what 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 why it’s crucial to wait for the hair to grow is because it needs to be a specific length for waxing. Hair that is too long or 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 too much where it breaks instead of getting pulled at the root.
How To Wax The Face At HomeÂ
How can you have a seamless full face wax at home? First, you’ll want to ensure you have all the tools required for 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 practice until you achieve the ideal wax routine.
Pre-WaxÂ
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, you can first avoid certain skincare products in your skincare routine. For example, chemical exfoliants and retinoids will exfoliate the surface layer of the skin and can create an adverse reaction when paired with wax.
Combining these products can increase the chance of irritation all over the face.
Avoid ShavingÂ
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 them with manicure scissors or a trimmer.
Invest In Pre-Wax Products For Your Skin TypeÂ
You’ll want to invest in the right pre-wax products. These products are often pre-waxing oils that can prepare the face for a wax. In addition, the oils will create a protective barrier between the skin and wax to create a more pleasant experience.
The right prep products can even improve your waxing results, like a smoother complexion.
Choose The Right WaxÂ
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 and sensitive areas like the face because it’s designed to cling to the hair rather than the skin.Â
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 inside the 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 that will help achieve a flawless full face wax.
It’s crucial always to test the temperature of the wax to avoid any burns on the face. 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 to have 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 GrowthÂ
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 SectionsÂ
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-WaxÂ
You’ll need to soothe and nourish your skin after you finish waxing.
This will minimize any irritation that could possibly arise and maintain your results. You’ll notice your skin will thank you when you take the time to nourish from an invigorating wax session.
You can apply a post-wax oil and a soothing cream to finish off 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, and it will instantly remove tacky areas from the skin.Â
Use A Soothing CreamÂ
What can you do if your face is particularly dry or sensitive?
You can wash off the post wax oil or simply apply a soothing cream on top. You can easily lock in moisture and hydration with a cream after a wax. It will also minimize the chance of irritation after your wax.Â
At-Home Full Face Wax RoutineÂ
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 provide better, smoother, and long-lasting results, so please don’t miss out on 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, you’ll want to pull it in the opposite direction of how you applied it. You can also think about using the wax with the grain and pulling it against it for a smoothless finish.
Apply Post-Wax ProductsÂ
Continue the application and removal until the face is complete. Also, avoid waxing over the same area twice to avoid causing 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 EarsÂ
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 bulb of wax on an applicator, set it in the center, and allow it to sit inside the nose or ear before pulling.
However, always proceed with caution or see a professional.
TakeawayÂ
Full-face waxing is great for achieving an even and smooth 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 to keep the face smooth and soft. So will you be trying a full face wax?Â
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