For The Most Effective & Painless Waxing Experience.

7 Things You Should Avoid

When it comes to hair removal, waxing is one of the more low-maintenance options.

Sure, it can be a little more expensive than simply shaving, but the results last anywhere from four to six weeks.

So once you do it, you won't have to worry about stubble for a while.

For peace of mind there are things you shouldn't do when you wax. Not life-altering things, of course, but to make sure you have the best results and most pleasant experience, you might have to temporarily give up a few indulgences.

Don't worry though, most of the things you shouldn't do when waxing are only for that one day, if not just the few hours surrounding the actual treatment. So in basically no time at all, you can be back to doing you, just with smoother skin. Just make sure that you plan your wax so that it won't interfere with you needing to do any of the things you really shouldn't be doing. To ensure the best and longest-lasting results, along with the most painless experience possible, here are the seven things you should try to avoid when you wax.

1. Drink Coffee or Alcohol

While it might seem like it could calm your nerves, it's not a good idea to drink coffee or alcohol before a wax. These will increase your skin's sensitivity, potentially making waxing more painful. So drink water instead. Staying hydrated can help waxing be less painful and more effective.

2. Tanning

Whether in the sun or with a self-tanner, most salons will advise you to avoid tanning the day before or after your wax. Sun tanning before a wax can make the skin more sensitive and the wax more painful. Sun tanning after a wax runs a higher risk of burning the sensitive areas (and loading up on SPF might just clog the pores). On the other hand, self-tanning before a wax can result in weird, patchy areas afterwards; whereas self-tanning after a wax can result in some of those chemicals getting into your bloodstream if you have any broken skin.

3. Swimming

Chlorinated or salt water can be very drying for the skin, and it's important to stay moisturized and hydrated for the most painless and effective wax. So if you can help it, don't go for a swim the day before a wax (and make sure to heavily moisturize during the week leading up to it). After a wax? Avoid swimming for at least 24 hours so the skin has time to heal, and you're less at-risk for any infections.

4. Working Out

After waxing, the skin is more susceptible to irritation (and therefore in growns), and the open follicles are more susceptible to bacterial infection. This means that it's best to avoid anything that could cause excess friction or sweat — working out, saunas, even sex for at least 24 hours after waxing.

5. Wearing Tight Clothes

In the same vein, it's also important to ditch the tight-fitting clothes right after a wax. Anything that hugs your body too tightly is going to rub against your skin more (causing irritation), and could trap more moisture (which could lead to a bacterial infection). For the quickest recovery, rock your favorite pair of sweats, pjs, or even a skirt.

6. Your Period

The few days leading up to your period is a time when your skin is more sensitive than usual, meaning a wax is likely to be more painful than usual. So if it's your first time, aim for a different time of the month. However, if you want to become a regular waxer, and it happens to fall near or on your period, you don't have to skip your appointment. Regularly waxing makes hairs grow back finer, therefore making it an easier and less painful process over time.

7. Shaving

For a successful wax, your hair should be at least one-quarter inch long. Which means that it's best to stop shaving at least five days prior to waxing. And even though it might be tempting to shave off some stubble in-between waxes, if you plan to make waxing routine, just say no to the razor.

Further reading: http://www.bustle.com/articles/147141-7-things-you-should-avoid-when-waxing-for-the-most-effective-painless-experience?utm_source=FBOnsite

To book your next (or first) waxing treatment at waxing me pretty cheltenham get in touch with us on:

Cheltenham  07544563471

Or book online plus you can keep up to date with all our special offers and waxing me pretty cheltenham news by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Post-Waxing Aftercare

The Importance of Staying Smooth

 “Scrub and Rub” is our mantra when it comes to post-waxing aftercare. By this, we mean exfoliate and moisturise regularly in order to prevent those oh-so-unsightly ingrown hairs that can blight an otherwise perfectly preened private part. After all, what’s the point in spending all that time and money finding a reputable salon and the best waxing therapist who can give you the perfect Brazilian, if you are not going to continue the care at home?

Any waxing salon worth its salt will guide you through the necessary aftercare procedures. Most will also sell the products they recommend. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for the customer to disregard any advice given in salon, viewing it as a sales pitch with the sole aim of tricking them into spending more money. This could be partly due to the manner in which the aftercare advice is delivered, potentially highlighting a training issue that salon managers need to address, exacerbated by inherent skepticism on the part of the customer.

Customers are of course free to buy their aftercare products from wherever they like. But care does need to be taken that the appropriate lotions and potions are applied to the appropriate areas. For example, products containing antiseptic properties such as tea tree oil and dead sea salts are recommended to prevent any post-wax infections developing in the hair follicles. Anything highly-scented or perfumed, on the other hand, which is prevalent among moisturisers, exfoliaters and bathing products should be avoided, especially when applied to ‘intimate’ areas after a Brazilian or Hollywood wax.

Here are our top five tips for maintaining bump-free skin in between waxes:

1.    Moisturise the waxed area regularly, preferably with a cream containing antiseptic properties such as tea tree oil, aloe vera and witch-hazel, which will also help to alleviate any irritation. Ingrown hairs are often caused by dry or flaky skin, which does not allow the hairs to grow through. If you are moisturising your intimate bits, be sure to use an appropriate cream or oil that won’t aggravate these most sensitive of areas.

2.    Exfoliate the waxed area several times a week to get rid of dead skin cells. Again, if it’s an intimate area, make sure you choose a suitable scrub that is not highly perfumed. The exfoliator needs to be grainy enough to have an effect, but not so harsh that will irritate your skin or make it sore. In fact, over-exfoliation or the use of an unsuitable scrub will graze the skin and may actually cause ingrown hairs, rather than prevent them.

3.    Dead sea salt used as bath salts can help prevent infection as can anti-bacterial shower gels. Dead sea salt baths may sting in the first 24 hours after waxing, but could be used several times a week thereafter in the week immediately following your wax.

4.    Exfoliating mitts can be used in the shower but these must be kept clean and dry, and should be replaced regularly. These are especially useful for men exfoliating areas such as their backs and chests after waxing. For non-intimate areas of the body, dry brushing can have a useful exfoliating effect.

5.    Some people find that rubbing antiseptic cream into the waxed area for 3 days after treatment soothes and protects the skin. Always wash your hands before applying any product.

And remember…

·       No fake tans, massages, extreme heat treatments (e.g. very hot baths or showers, saunas, steam rooms), swimming, sunbathing (including sun beds or any other exposure to UV light) or tight clothing for 24-48 hours.

·       Try and avoid exercise for 24 hours as getting sweaty could clog the hair follicles. Do not scratch or touch the area with unwashed hands.

·       Avoid applying deodorant, anything perfumed or make-up to the waxed area for 24 hours.

Finally, in the unlikely event that your skin has not returned to normal after 24 hours, seek advice from your GP in case you have had an allergic reaction to the wax or in case an infection is developing.

So there you have it, If you have anything else at all that you’d like to ask us prior to your first time at waxing me pretty cheltenham, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch, either by calling us on 07544563471or by email: hello@waxingmeprettycheltenham.com Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you for your first wax very soon!

8 Insider secrets for a painless wax and a bump free recovery.

The secrets to easing the sting of a wax.

Treating yourself with TLC afterward.

1. Come prepared.

"Like brushing your teeth before you go to the dentist, come to your waxing appointment with clean, dry skin. And for best results, skip the lotion the day of your wax."

2. ...And come hairy.

"Stop shaving two to three weeks before you plan to get waxed. Your hair needs to be long enough to lie flat on your skin, which is approximately a quarter-inch long. If you're a 'shaver,' the tendency is for the hairs to grow back unevenly, since we can all miss a few patches here and there. The longer you wait after your last shave, the more you will reduce the chance of stubble after your wax. (This happens when hairs that are too short get waxed and aren't able to be effectively removed from the root.)"

3. If you're getting a bikini wax, make sure you're not on your period

"Generally, it is best to get a bikini treatment at least a few days before or after your period; the closer you get to your actual period, the more sensitive your body becomes and your immune system is lowered."

4. Take the edge off.

"If you tend to have a very low threshold for pain, try popping an Advil or Tylenol about 20 minutes before your treatment. If you find that you just get a little anxious, a nice glass of wine could do the trick. But, please note: Moderation is key, as alcohol thins the blood."

 5. Wax only what you can see.

"If you've opted to DIY your wax, make sure you can see the area you are applying wax to, to ensure proper application, but also to prevent injury. Chances are, if you can't see it, things are more likely to go awry, which can result in unflattering bruising and/or other skin traumas. Instead, grab a mirror or a buddy to help. The 'You wax mine, I'll wax yours' concept works well and can also provide some memorable entertainment."

 6. 48 hours of rest is best.

"For optimally smooth skin, allow your skin the time it needs after your wax. Avoid the 4 S's for the first couple of days: Sun, Sauna/Steam Room, Synthetics, and Sex. Here's why:

 •No Sun: During a waxing service, the top layers of your skin can be removed in the process, which can heighten your sensitivity to the sun and increase your chances of sunburn.

•No Sauna/Steam Room: It's best to avoid extreme heat post treatment. Waxing can heat up the body, so cool it down afterward with a cold compress instead of a scalding hot shower.

•No Synthetics: Wear looser clothing and natural fabrics, like cotton, so that skin can breathe easy as it calms down post treatment. Also, you may want to shy away from thongs to prevent added irritation after a freshly waxed bikini.

 •No Sex: This one may seem counterintuitive, but medical experts recommend abstaining from sexual activity for the first 48 hours after any type of bikini wax. This time period is when your body is most susceptible to outside bacteria that can potentially cause an infection, not to mention more sensitivity (and not the sexy kind)."

7. Get SET for your smoothest skin ever.

"Post-wax, remember the acronym SET, which stands for Soothe, Exfoliate, Treat.

•Soothe: For the first two days post wax, if you experience irritation or prolonged redness, try applying a cold compress or a topical treatment. Also, be mindful to keep the area clean.

 •Exfoliate: Like brushing your teeth to prevent cavities, exfoliating on a daily basis is essential for helping to prevent ingrown hairs. After hair removal, dead upper layers of skin can build up and trap hairs. When these trapped hairs can't grow out, they grow back in, resulting in ugly bumps, which can be the early sign of ingrown hairs. For daily prevention, simply replace your washcloth with an exfoliating cloth and use in the shower with your favorite body wash.]

 •Treat: As much as we try to prevent them, ingrowns can still happen as a result of tight clothing (e.g., leggings), the texture of your hair, and/or your skin type. Apply a topical exfoliating product daily after you get out of the shower (when your skin is most absorbent for soaking up product). Use it once a day for mild to moderate ingrowns, or twice a day for more severe and stubborn ones."

 8. Keep at it.

"Schedule your waxing appointments about a month apart, exfoliate between visits, and don't shave for the best results! If you get your routine down pat, you'll find your waxes to also be less painful since the hair is typically at its ideal growth between weeks three and five. If you wait longer, the hair is longer and tends to make the removal process more intense." 

Further reading: http://www.elle.com/beauty/news/a15049/insider-bikini-wax-tips-shobha-tummala

To book your next (or first) waxing treatment at waxing me pretty cheltenham get in touch with us on:

Cheltenham  07544563471

Or book online plus you can keep up to date with all our special offers and waxing me pretty cheltenham news by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

What to expect the first time you get a bikini wax

Never fancied hot wax on your lady bits? For the first-timers or plain curious, here's what goes on behind the doors…

intimate waxing is a pretty standard grooming habit for thousands of women who routinely book a session every month.

If you're a waxing virgin but have been thinking of giving it a go, here's the lowdown on exactly what happens once you get over the basic embarrassment of showing your pants to a total stranger. 

• Every one feels a bit self-conscious, especially the first few times. But remember, beauty therapists have seen it ALL before and perform bikini waxes every day. Worrying about whether you're too hairy / not hairy enough / have rubbish knickers on is all very normal but very unnecessary.

• The categories of bikini wax based on how much hair is removed and priced accordingly. The classic shape is the 'Bikini' and involves a simple tidy up of hair at the front and a bit down below, so that it doesn't extend beyond your knicker line – just enough to get you bikini-ready (this is the ideal wax for first-timers). The 'Brazilian' involves a lot more hair removal – typically leaving just a 'landing strip' of hair at the front and all hair removed down below and even round the back! The 'Hollywood' is total hair removal, front to back. Many salons offer a 'High Bikini' or 'G String' wax which is a little more thorough than your classic 'Bikini' shape and includes hair removed from the top to take your strip down in length.

• The therapist will ask you to lie down on a salon bed/couch and remove your clothes below the waist. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO TAKE YOUR PANTS OFF IF YOU DON'T WANT TO (and most people don't)! They are very adept at working around your knickers to protect your modesty).

• If you want a thorough wax like a Brazilian or Hollywood the therapist may find it easier if you remove your pants or offer you some disposable pants instead.

• Finally, a soothing cream is applied all over. This bit feels really nice. She'll leave the room to let you get dressed.

• BRAVO! You are now gorgeously hair-free and low-maintenance for about 3-4 weeks before you're ready for your next session.

Further reading: http://www.cosmopolitan.co.uk/beauty-hair/advice/a33718/what-to-expect-the-first-time-you-get-a-bikini-wax/

To book your next (or first) waxing treatment at waxing me pretty cheltenham get in touch with us on:

Cheltenham  07544563471

Or book online plus you can keep up to date with all our special offers and waxing me pretty cheltenham news by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

A guide to preparing yourself for your waxing appointment

Ah, the things we do for beauty and in the case of body waxing.

Hair removal is not something new for women with its increase in popularity Brazilian Waxing is a highly requested service.

Hair needs time to grow to go!
Getting a last minute Wax appointment might seem like a great idea but if you shaved your legs last week you’re wasting your money and time, At least 5mm of hair is needed for the Wax to pick it up, this takes most people between three to four weeks to grow so be brave and put down that razor. Shaved hair is courser and the wax treatment is likely to be more painful if you’re a regular shaver so the longer you leave the hair to grow the better. When you shave, your hair will be at different stages of growth so it will take a couple of waxes to get everything growing at the same rate, once you have this you’ll get smoother results that last longer.

Trail run
If you’re planning a holiday or a wedding or any other special occasion it’s best to try out waxing in advance to make sure it’s right for you, whether you can follow the aftercare of exfoliation and moisturising, to make sure you don’t have any extreme reactions (very rare) and most importantly to time it right so your next wax gives you the great results you want for your big event.

Take a Break
If you’re a Gym Bunny, you do a pole dancing class or you love a swim you’ll want to give these activities a break after your wax, 48 hours for the first wax treatment, as you will want to gage how your skin reacts after waxing. Why? Waxing removes hair from the root leaving you with open follicles if you pop down the gym and get a sweat on too soon after a wax you are likely to get a rash, spots or itchiness and if you’re very lucky all three!

Exfoliate
As well as aftercare I recommend you exfoliate right before the wax treatment, this will get rid of dead skin cells which will help free up any ingrown hair giving you a better result. I love Exfoliating cloths for this.

Relax
Don’t come to your appointment glugging down a can of Coke, caffeine can heighten sensitivity making your wax treatment more painful. If you’re a big baby you may want to try Perron Rigot’s Pre cooling gel that is applied 45mins before and takes out the ‘Ouch’

Find a Parking spot
If its your first appointment with me come in good time, you don’t want to be panicked and hot and sweaty so pop on your sat nav, find a parking spot and arrive ten minute before your appointment time, this will allow you to fill out a New client card and have a flick through a magazine. I book out a specific amount of time for each treatment and try not to keep clients waiting so arriving even just five minutes late may cause you to lose your booking. I will charge 50% of the fee for this.

Ask Away
There is plenty of time to talk during your appointment so please ask away, anything and everything. You’ll leave with after care instructions but do feel free to call or text if you want to ask anything after your appointment.

To book your next (or first) waxing treatment at waxing me pretty cheltenham get in touch with us on:

Cheltenham  07544563471

Or book online plus you can keep up to date with all our special offers and waxing me pretty cheltenham news by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram