Facts and myths about waxing – what does science say?

Table of Contents:

1. Myth 1: Hair grows back stronger and darker after depilation.
2. Fact: Waxing can cause irritation.
3. Myth 2: Waxing causes skin laxity.
4. Fact: Waxing is safe, but can be painful
5. Myth 3: Wax can remove tan and cause hyperpigmentation.
6. Fact: Regular hair removal can slow hair growth
7. Myth 4: Waxing causes ingrown hairs.
8. Fact: Waxing is suitable for all areas of the body.
9. Myth 5: Waxing makes your hair never grow back
10. Fact: Waxing is more effective on hair that is 3-5 mm long.
11. Myth 6: Anyone can wax, regardless of their skin condition.
12. To sum up

Waxing is one of the most popular methods of hair removal. Despite its popularity, many myths have grown up around this method, which often lead to misunderstandings. It's time to look at the most common opinions about waxing and verify them based on scientific research and dermatological knowledge. Does waxing really affect hair density? Can it cause skin laxity? Here are the facts and myths that dispel any doubts.

Myth 1: Hair grows back stronger and darker after depilation.

This is one of the most common myths, but science contradicts it. Waxing does not change the structure of the hair, so it does not make it grow back thicker or darker. Wax removes the hair along with the roots, which makes the regrowth process longer, and the hair is thinner and softer as it begins to grow. Dermatological studies indicate that regular waxing can even weaken hair follicles, leading to less frequent and weaker hair in the long run.

Fact: Waxing can cause irritation.

Ingrown hairs are a common problem with waxing, especially for those with coarser and curlier hair. When the hair is plucked out along with the root, the regrowing hair can encounter problems breaking through the skin, leading to ingrown hairs. This can result in inflammation, redness and unsightly lumps. Dermatologists recommend regular skin exfoliation and moisturization to minimize the risk of ingrown hairs after waxing.

Myth 2: Waxing causes skin laxity.

This is another myth that often stops people from using this method. The concern stems from the fact that the skin is stretched during depilation, raising concerns about its firmness. In fact, studies have not shown that waxing has an effect on permanent skin laxity. The skin of the face and body is elastic and can return to its original state. Of course, if one has very delicate, vascular skin, caution should be exercised, and for mature skin, where collagen naturally decreases, alternative methods are worth considering, but waxing in itself does not lead to permanent loss of firmness. Short-term irritation, such as redness, is a common side effect of waxing, especially with sensitive skin. However, irritation is usually short-lived and disappears within a few hours of the procedure. To reduce the risk of irritation, it is recommended to use a soothing after-waxing product and avoid irritating products, such as perfumed cosmetics, for a few hours after the procedure. It is also worth using a moisturiser if you wax frequently to keep your skin supple and healthy.

Fact: Waxing is safe, but can be painful

Waxing is considered a safe method, provided proper hygiene procedures are followed and high-quality products are used. The pain that accompanies depilation is normal, as hair is removed along with the roots. Studies show that sensitivity to pain is an individual issue, but it can be reduced by using a gentle wax and ensuring proper technique. Performing hair removal with heat reduces discomfort because warm wax opens the pores of the skin, making it easier to remove hairs. Pain sensations during waxing are very subjective and depend on individual sensitivity, the area being waxed and the technique used. People who are used to waxing often feel less pain over time and can also use pain-relieving techniques, such as cooling the skin before the procedure. There are also special preparations and waxes for sensitive skin that can help minimize discomfort.

Myth 3: Wax can remove tan and cause hyperpigmentation.

There is a belief that waxing can damage tanned skin and cause discoloration. In fact, if waxing is done on healthy skin, it should not lead to permanent discoloration or removal of tan. However, the problem arises when the skin is tanned and irritated, increasing the risk of inflammatory reactions. Discoloration can occur if waxing is done incorrectly or on sensitive skin. People with darker skin tones may be more prone to hyperpigmentation. Regular use of sun protection and appropriate post-waxing care (e.g. soothing creams) can reduce the risk of discoloration. Professionally performed waxing minimizes the risk of these types of side effects. Dermatologists recommend avoiding waxing on freshly tanned skin for 24-48 hours and using high sunscreen creams after the procedure to prevent hypersensitivity to UV rays and the risk of hyperpigmentation.

Fact: Regular hair removal can slow hair growth

Regular hair removal with wax can actually weaken hair follicles. Studies show that long-term waxing can reduce the intensity of hair growth and lead to less frequent regrowth. Each successive session can be less painful, as the hair grows back thinner and less pronounced. Dermatologists stress that by waxing regularly, you can enjoy longer periods of smooth skin.

Myth 4: Waxing causes ingrown hairs.

Ingrown hairs are possible after waxing, but this is not always the case. Ingrown hairs can result from the fact that hairs pulled from the root can grow back weaker and do not penetrate the skin, which leads to ingrown hairs. Regular exfoliation, moisturizing the skin and using appropriate products that reduce the risk of ingrown hairs can help.

Fact: Waxing is suitable for all areas of the body.

Waxing is used on many areas of the body, such as the face, armpits, bikini line, and even the back. The use of appropriate techniques and products allows for safe hair removal of sensitive areas. However, it is important that the skin is healthy and not irritated, and the method is adapted to the treatment area.

Myth 5: Waxing makes your hair never grow back

Waxing removes hair from the root but does not permanently destroy the hair follicle. The hair grows back in 3-6 weeks, although it may become weaker and thinner with regular use. Permanent hair removal is only possible with methods such as laser hair removal.

Fact: Waxing is more effective on hair that is 3-5 mm long.

The hair should be at least 3-5 mm long so that the wax can effectively stick to it and remove it. Hair that is too short can be impossible to remove, which affects the effectiveness of the treatment. However, with too long hair, the treatment can be more painful, so the optimal hair length is 5-10 mm.

Myth 6: Anyone can wax, regardless of their skin condition.

There are not many restrictions on the use of waxing, but this statement should be considered a myth. Contraindications to waxing include skin problems, such as psoriasis. If you have any doubts about whether your waxing will harm your skin, consult a dermatologist before the procedure.

To sum up

Waxing is an effective method that carries both benefits and some risks. Many of the myths about waxing are not supported by scientific studies, and some of them are rather due to misinterpretations. Waxing does not make hair grow back thicker or lead to permanent skin laxity. The fact is, however, that it can cause irritation and ingrown hairs, especially in those with thicker hair. Regular waxing can reduce the intensity of hair growth, and attention to proper technique and hygiene ensures safe results.