Does waxing reduce hair growth?
One of the most common questions in the treatment room is, “Does waxing reduce hair growth?” The answer? Yes!
Have you ever scheduled a wax appointment and thought, “my hair looks thinner,” or “my hair grew in slower this time?” That is not your imagination, the waxes are working!
How Does Waxing Affect Hair Growth?
Repeated and consistent waxing firmly grips the root, and paralyzes the hair follicle, allowing hair to grow back thinner, softer, less dense, and reduced.
The key to longer lasting smooth skin is consistently waxing at the weakest phase in hair growth, the anagen phase.
The anagen phase is when the hair is actively growing and firmly attached to the root.
Waxing during this allows for the easiest removal of the hair and root all together, resulting in a more effective and longer lasting outcome.
How Long Does a Wax Typically Last?
Waxes last within a 4 - 6 week range. For example, a 4 week wax schedule typically goes:
Week 1: Completely smooth
Week 2: Smooth, exfoliate a few times a week
Week 3: New hair growth begins
Week 4: Hair is ¼ inch long and is ready to be waxed again
Sometimes you may notice your hair growing quickly after waxing, it's likely because the hair is growing on a different cycle. Some hair may be too short for the appointment and may grow in 3 - 5 days. I call that a “baby layer” of hair underneath the bulk.
While I can tweeze the baby layer, I recommend you wait until your next waxing appointment to ensure the hair is on the same growth cycle and long enough to wax cleanly.
Waxing hair that is too short (less than ¼ inch) can break beneath the skin's surface rather than pulling from the root, resulting in stubble.
Do Not shave between appointments
Although tempting, shaving between appointments will interrupt the hair growth cycle. Shaving removes hair from the surface of the skin, which causes hair to grow back at varying stages and not be removed from the root.
This will also make your next wax appointment very uncomfortable!
Note: I recommend regularly scheduling your appointments between 4 - 6 weeks, or 8 - 10 weeks if you notice slower hair growth.
Factors That Impact Hair Regrowth
Hair growth / regrowth is different for everybody! If your growth cycle falls outside of the previously mentioned 4 - 6 week schedule that is nothing to be worried about. Here are some factors that can affect your hair growth timeline.
Pregnancy / Menopause
PCOS other hormone disorders
Genetics
Age
You may notice after 3 - 4 consistent waxes how smooth regrowth is, and how slow hair returns.
Debunking Myths:
Waxing does not make hair grow back thicker, or more coarse.
The opposite! Waxing causes hair to grow back finer, softer, thinner, and less dense.
Waxing does not cause ingrown hairs.
Ingrowns are caused from dead skin trapping new hair underneath the surface. Exfoliating the dead skin cells off and maintaining hydration will prevent and reduce dead skin forming and trapping hair.
You can wax if you have sensitive skin.
Those with sensitive skin should not fear waxing. Following a proper skincare regime before and after waxing allows for the best results. Please consult your esthetician regarding their approach on handling sensitive skin.
A Note from Jamie:
Waxing is more than just removing unwanted hair. It is a carefully planned out routine to manage hair growth in key areas on your body. It allows you to skip the day-to-day maintenance of shaving and leaves you with consistently smooth skin to feel confident in, and be your happiest self.
Understanding the purpose behind waxing makes booking your first appointment easier. Are you ready to start your hair reduction journey? Book now at Lady Violet Esthetics and let’s work together for your smooth skin!
Book now at Lady Violet Esthetics in Woodbury on Long Island.
My studio is located at:
7600 Plaza C104
7600 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury, NY 11797
Written by: Jamie Stegner & Luke Webber
