Waxing

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #1
To avoid the skin appearing darker after waxing, be careful not to expose the treated area to the sun for 48 hours after treatment. Alternatively use a good sun blocker cream on newly treated areas.

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #2
Be sure to test a small area of skin first to make sure there is no acute sensitivity or allergic reaction to the process.

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #3
Hair should be at least 1/8 inch long. If it isn't wait until it reaches this length.

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #4
Be sure to wash the skin thoroughly and dry it well beforehand to remove any lotions or oils which may prevent the wax from adhering closely to the skin.

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #5
Heat the wax carefully so as not to overheat and thus burn the skin when applying. Test on a small area first. The consistency should be soft rather than runny.

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #6
If pain and discomfort is a main concern use a pain reducing gel or anesthetic numbing spray available from pharmacists. These solutions should be applied 30 to 60 minutes before waxing so the skin is numbed beforehand.

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #7
Apply a thin layer of wax in the direction of the hair growth, preferably holding the spatula or tongue depresser at a 45 degree angle as you spread the wax.

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #8
When applying the cotton strip over the wax, rub in the same direction as the hair growth leaving about 1/3 of the strip free to allow for a firm grip for a fast back pulling action.

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #9
Pull the skin taut before pulling the cotton strip away.

Hair Removal Tips - Waxing #10
Pull back with a rapid movement close to the skin. Do not pull up or out, rather pull back.

Shaving (Blade)

Hair Removal Tips - Shaving #1
Always wet the hair first for at least 3 minutes. Hair absorbs water which makes it stand up making it easier to shave. Wet hair also reduces wear on the blade. Shaving after taking a shower is an ideal time.

Hair Removal Tips - Shaving #2
For a close shave with minimal irritation, try and use an angle of approximately 30 degrees between the blade and the skin.

Hair Removal Tips - Shaving #3
To lessen the risk of razor burn and extend the life of the blade, allow shaving cream to sit on the skin for 4 minutes before shaving. Thick shaving cream or foam offers the best protection against irritation and cuts.

Hair Removal Tips - Shaving #4
Use a sharp new blade. If you need to use pressure on the blade it is time to change it. Using a blunt blade can increase the danger of ingrown hair.

Hair Removal Tips - Shaving #5
Splash the skin with cold water after shaving to help stop any bleeding from small nicks and also remove any traces of soap or lather.

Hair Removal Tips - Shaving #6
When shaving the leg area use long strokes going against the grain avoiding repeat strokes. Great care needs to be exercised especially around bony areas such as the ankle or knee.

Hair Removal Tips - Shaving #7
Hair under the arm grows in all directions so a side to side stroke as well as up and down strokes may be necessary to catch all the hairs. Do not apply deodorants or antiperspirants right after shaving as this can cause acute irritation and soreness.

Hair Removal Tips - Shaving #8
For the bikini line, shave in the direction of the hair and avoid repeating the strokes to minimize irritation in this very sensitive area.

Depilatories

Hair Removal Tips - Depilatories #1
Hair that is dark and coarse appears to be more resistant to chemical depilatories than hair that is light and fine.

Hair Removal Tips - Depilatories #2
A depilatory is best used after a warm bath or shower when the hair is softer and the pores of the skin are open.

Hair Removal Tips - Depilatories #3
Never use a depilatory where there are wounds on the skin such as cuts or abrasions or on skin sensitive from sunburn.

Hair Removal Tips - Depilatories #4
Apply the depilatory in a generous, smooth thick layer. Do not rub it in.

Hair Removal Tips - Depilatories #5
Always test a small area of skin first. A small patch on the inner arm below the elbow is a good place. Keep the application on the skin for the time recommended in the instructions and remove. Wait 24 hours. If there are no signs of irritation or allergic reaction such as redness or broken skin then proceed over a larger area.

Hair Removal Tips - Depilatories #6
Follow the timing instructions very closely by setting a timer and removing the chemical immediately the timer signal goes off. Do not exceed the time recommended to avoid burning or damaging the skin.

Hair Removal Tips - Depilatories #7
If the skin becomes itchy or irritated discontinue use of the depilatory and apply a soothing gel such as Aloe Vera or an anti-inflammatory skin cream.

Hair Removal Tips - Depilatories #8
To minimize irritation, try not to exfoliate (through scrubbing, or using a mask or cleansing agent) beforehand and be sure to follow up with a thorough rinsing and moisture-rich cream.

Hair Removal Tips - Depilatories #10
To avoid damaging underlying layers of skin, some recommend not using a depilatory more than every 28 days. Generally, a new outer layer of skin is formed every 28 days.