How long does my hair need to be to get it waxed?

We recommend growing your hair for at least 4 weeks between visits. It should be a minimum of half a centimetre in length. Please do not trim or shave prior to attending.

It’s my very first wax, what do I need to prepare for it?

Here at zip zip wax, we pride ourselves in getting first timers comfortable for their first waxing experience. We will talk you through each step, ensure you are comfortable at all times and give you bit of extra time should you need it. All you need to do is trust us and make sure your hair is a minimum of 4 weeks growth, do not shave or trim beforehand. We do not judge you if you have never done anything in hair removal in the past or if your hair is long. We will do what it takes to give you a positive experience.

I have been shaving, can I now wax?

SHAVERS-Heads up, you WON'T get a clean finish if you are a shaver/trimmer/epilator or have been using hair removal creams. All of these methods, especially shaving strengthen the hair & make it resistant to waxing.

The result is a more painful wax with a stubbly result as well as a risk of in-grown hair-however, you have to start somewhere! This will improve over time as we require time to weaken the follicle in order to start seeing a longer lasting smoother finish, usually around 3-4 sessions of every 4-6 weeks. It is not recommended to alternate waxing and shaving as our aim is to weaken the follicle by regular waxing. Regular waxing will result in a slower and weaker growth which will turn hair regrowth sparse over time. Alternating shaving and waxing defeats the purpose of reducing hair and bring you back to square 1. Please wait 4 weeks BEFORE attending.

How often will I need to have a wax?

Ideally hair is waxed every 4-6 weeks. This allows for the growth cycle to become regular, ensuring all hairs are removed at the one time. Hair longer than the the 6 week range tends to hurt more as the hair is long...

Everyones hair growth is different. Some grow quick..some grow slow..Hair growth speed is dependant on many factors including, hormonal influence, including PCOS, the pill, medications, menopause, peri menopause, length of time one has been waxing, and previous hair removal methods. All these factors and many more all influence the speed in which hair grows back.

Regular waxing slows hair regrowth considerably in the majority of clients.

My hair grew back really quickly, why?

Hair regrowth after waxing can vary for several reasons. When you wax, you are removing hair from the root, which can lead to finer and sparser regrowth over time. However, the rate at which hair grows back can be influenced by several factors:

1. Hair Growth Cycle: Hair grows in cycles, which include growth (anagen), rest (telogen), and shedding (catagen) phases. Some hair follicles may be in different phases, meaning not all hair will be removed at once, leading to quicker regrowth as those hairs in the anagen phase will continue to grow.

2. Genetics: Your genetic predisposition plays a crucial role in how quickly your hair grows back. People with certain genetic backgrounds may experience faster regrowth.

3. Hormonal Influence: Hormones significantly affect hair growth. Fluctuations in hormone levels, due to factors such as menstrual cycles or hormonal treatments, can lead to faster hair regrowth.

4. Post-treatment Care: Aftercare practices can influence how hair grows back. For example, frequent exfoliation may promote a smoother regrowth, while neglecting the area can lead to thicker hair returning.

5. Hormone replacement medications: Hormone tablets can influence hair growth patterns, often playing a significant role in promoting faster hair regrowth. The hormones in these tablets, such as oestrogen and progesterone, may enhance the anagen phase of hair growth, leading to thicker and faster-growing hair.

   Overall, while waxing can slow down hair growth over time, individual factors mean that some may experience faster regrowth than others.

Will it hurt?

You will experience slight discomfort at your first appointment, but it will get easier with each subsequent wax. This is why it is very important to keep regular! We cannot guarantee it won’t hurt at all, as it depends on every individual as to what someones pain threshold will be, and more so if the hair is long and strong. Short term pain for long term gain!

Can I get waxed when I am pregnant? 

Yes you absolutely can right up until the last weeks. We will make sure you are as comfortable as possible during this time.

How can I prevent ingrown hairs? 

The best way to reduce ingrown hair is to wax regularly, avoid shaving and exfoliate regularly with an exfoliating mitt, (available to purchase from us). Daily moisturising is also recommended. Avoid compression wear, tights, and tight underwear as these may contribute to hair growing under the skin. These combined will also result in a better quality wax with less discomfort. Ingrown hairs occur when hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin, causing irritation and inflammation. This common condition can lead to red, painful bumps and sometimes infection. It often appears in areas where hair removal methods, such as shaving or waxing, are used.

To prevent ingrown hairs, consider the following tips:

1. Exfoliation: Regularly exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells and help free trapped hairs. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating glove.

2. Moisturising: Keep the skin well-moisturised to maintain its elasticity. This can help prevent hair from becoming trapped beneath the skin's surface.

3. Waxing Methods: Ensure the procedure is performed by a professional to minimise the risk of ingrown hairs.

4. Clothing Choices: Wear loose-fitting clothing in areas prone to ingrown hairs to avoid friction and irritation.

If ingrown hairs do occur, treating them promptly is essential. Warm compresses can soothe the area, and topical treatments like tea tree, or lotions with ingredients like glycolic acid may help reduce inflammation. For persistent cases, seek advice from a healthcare professional for further options.

What is the difference between a xxx, Brazilian, extended and standard bikini?

“XXX” is a wax which removes all the hair from the pubic region.

“Brazilian” is wax which removes most of the hair from the pubic region including the labia except for a small strip or patch at the top, which can be square, a triangle or rectangular.

“Extended bikini” Is also known as a “high bikini”. It’s a tidy up which leaves hair on the labia, but cleans around the bikini area. May or may not include the perineum or between your bottom cheeks.

“Standard bikini” is a bikini wax that cleans up hair outside of a standard pair of underwear. Just the sides basically.

Folliculitis/Skin irritation/Rash:

On some rare occasions, clients can experience red bumps after waxing, especially if you’re waxing for the first time or if it has been some time since you have waxed. Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by infection. It can occur due to several factors:

1. Bacterial Infection: The most common cause is bacteria, which can infect the hair follicles, especially after shaving or when skin is compromised.

2. Irritation: Mechanical irritation, such as friction from clothing or equipment, can disrupt the follicles and create an entry point for bacteria.

3. In-grown Hairs: When hair grows back into the skin instead of outwards, it can cause inflammation and lead to folliculitis.

4. Poor Hygiene: Inadequate cleansing can result in the accumulation of dirt and oils, which may obstruct the follicles and promote inflammation.

5. Medications: Certain medications may have an adverse reaction with waxing. Please consult with your Dr. if you have any concerns.

Folliculitis is the inflammation of hair follicles, usually due to bacteria, fungi, irritation, or blockages. It looks like small red bumps or pus-filled blisters around the follicles, often showing up in areas where there is friction or moisture, like the back, face, legs, and bikini line.

Symptoms can include redness, swelling, and discomfort at the affected site, and occasionally, itching or pain. Folliculitis can be classified into various types, with the most common being superficial folliculitis, which involves only the outer layer of skin.

Treatment typically involves maintaining good hygiene, applying warm compresses, and using topical antibacterial or antifungal medications

If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable to rule out other underlying conditions and to receive appropriate treatment.

I am on isotretinoin, can I wax?

Isotretinoin, (Roaccutane) is a prescription drug used to treat severe acne. It can make your skin more sensitive and fragile. If you are thinking about waxing while on Roaccutane, keep these points in mind:

• Skin Sensitivity: Roaccutane may increase skin sensitivity, dryness, and fragility, leading to more irritation, redness, or possible skin damage from waxing.

• Healing Time: Roaccutane can slow down skin healing, meaning any irritation from waxing could take longer to heal.

• Consult a Professional: It’s wise to talk to a dermatologist or skincare expert before waxing if you are on Roaccutane. They can give tailored advice and suggest safer hair removal options.

• Timing: Waiting at least six months after finishing Roaccutane is usually recommended before waxing to allow your skin to recover fully.

Considering these factors is essential for maintaining healthy skin while treating acne and removing hair.

The use of Retinols and waxing:

When it comes to skincare and hair removal, understanding the interaction between retinol and waxing is crucial for achieving the best results. Retinol is a powerful derivative of vitamin A, widely used for its anti-ageing and skin-smoothing benefits. However, it can also create paper thin sensitive skin which can result in skin “lifting” after a wax.

If you are using retinol, (which is found in many skin care products) it is advisable to avoid waxing for at least 48 hours after applying it. Retinol can lead to increased skin sensitivity, and waxing can exacerbate this, potentially causing irritation, redness, or even skin damage.

Additionally, if you have recently started using retinol, consider gradually introducing it into your routine before committing to waxing. This will allow your skin time to adjust and reduce the risk of adverse reactions.

If you need to wax while on a retinol regimen, consulting with a skincare professional or aesthetician is recommended. They can provide personalised advice based on your skin type and the extent of your retinol use. Always prioritise skin health to maintain a balanced approach to beauty treatments.

I have sensitive skin, can I wax?

Yes, individuals with sensitive skin can wax, but it's important to take certain precautions. Despite our waxes being of the highest quality with ingredients, less likely to irritate, there is no such thing as a wax that’s perfect for sensitive skin. Someone, somewhere will always react to something. It is impossible to guarantee that one type of wax will be ideal for everyone. Perform a patch test on a small area to check for any adverse reactions before proceeding with a larger area if you are concerned. Additionally, avoid waxing on irritated, sun exposed or broken skin, and consult with a dermatologist if you have concerns about how waxing may affect your skin condition. Some skin can be reactive rather than sensitive.

Sensitivity to pain, doesn’t mean you have sensitive skin.

I notice some hair was left behind, why?

If it has been a while since you have had a wax, have been shaving/epilating, tweezing, using depilatory creams, or it’s your first time getting a wax, your hair may be in a particular hair growth phase which is at skin level, or may be very strong and course, there is only so many times a therapist can wax over the same area in an attempt to remove the hair. Despite our wax being exception quality and strength, the last thing we wish to do is cause your skin pain or irritation. After the third application your skin may start to tingle or get quite warm, in which case, we would inform you or explain that we cannot continue over the same area. This should not be an issue over time and with regular visits and proper care of there skin, i.e. moisturising and exfoliating.

Waxing Aftercare

After waxing, it's essential to follow proper aftercare to ensure your skin remains healthy and irritation-free. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

1. Avoid Heat: For at least 24 hours post-waxing, steer clear of hot baths, saunas, and intense exercise. Excess heat can irritate the skin.

2. Keep It Clean: Gently cleanse the area with a mild, unscented soap to prevent any infections. Avoid scrubs or exfoliants for a few days.

3. Moisturise: Use a soothing, fragrance-free moisturiser or aloe vera gel to help hydrate the skin and reduce any redness or irritation.

4. No Sun Exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 48 hours. If you must be outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the area.

5. Refrain from Certain Products: Avoid using perfumed products, glycolic acids, or retinoids on the waxed area for at least a week, as these can cause irritation.

6. Wear Loose Clothing: To minimise friction and irritation, opt for loose-fitting clothes for a few days after your waxing session.

7. Watch for Reactions: Monitor your skin for any signs of irritation, such as redness, bumps, or itching. If any severe reactions occur, consult a healthcare professional.

8. Schedule Regular Waxing: Regular waxing can lead to smoother skin over time and may reduce discomfort. Consider scheduling your next appointment every 4 to 6 weeks.

Following these aftercare tips can help promote healing and ensure the best results from your waxing experience.