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Good
hot waxes melt just above body temperature so they can be easily
spread thinly over the skin. As they harden they trap the hair in
the wax so it is removed by the roots when the wax is ripped off.
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Cold
waxes are available in precoated strips which can be pressed directly
onto the skin. The hair sticks to the wax and is then removed with
the quick pull back action. (Cold waxing is also known as Persian
waxing)
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As
dead skin cells are removed in this process the skin can feel quite
smooth afterwards. The waxing action does cause the skin to sting
and many find a soothing skin healing cream to be helpful afterwards,
especially in a sensitive area like the bikini line.
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Some
persons find the skin reacts with redness and bumps which disappear
after a few hours.
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Some
physicians do not recommend waxing for persons suffering from
diabetes or who have poor circulation as they are more
susceptible to infection.
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It
is wise to test a small area first. If there is no adverse
reaction the proceed with the rest of the bikini line area.
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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.
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Hair
should be at least 1/8 inch long. If it isn't wait until it
reaches this length.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Pull
the skin taut before pulling the cotton strip away.
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Pull
back with a rapid movement close to the skin. Do not pull up or
out, rather pull back.
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One
fast, smooth, pull back is much more effective than a series
of light pulls which only increase the pain and leave patchy areas.
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Clean
the skin with a warm moist towel afterwards to remove excess
wax.