Waxing: How to Prepare, What to Expect & Aftercare

This guide covers everything you need to know about facial and body waxing, how to prepare for your appointment, what to expect during your service, and how to care for your skin afterward to maintain smooth results.

How to Prepare for Your Waxing Appointment

Preparing for your wax appointment is easy and makes all the difference.
Follow these simple steps to get the smoothest results and the most comfortable experience:

✅ Arrive with clean skin
No makeup, skincare, or SPF—especially around the brows, forehead, and cheeks.

✅ Let it grow
Hair should be at least ¼ inch long (about the size of a grain of rice) for best results.

✅ Skip exfoliants
Avoid retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, or harsh scrubs for 5–7 days before your appointment.

✅ Hydrate (yourself and your skin!)
Well-hydrated skin responds better to waxing and heals faster.

✅ Avoid sun exposure + heat
No tanning, hot yoga, or saunas the day before—sun-stressed skin can lift more easily during waxing.

✅ Let me know if you’re using acne meds or prescriptions
That includes Accutane, topical retinoids, or anything your derm prescribed—transparency keeps your skin safe!

What to Expect During Your Waxing Appointment

  • We will begin by prepping the service area with a gentle cleanser and creating a protective barrier between the skin and wax with a thin layer of oil.

  • I will then apply a gentle, stripless hard wax to the service area in sections and remove the sections swiftly but with care.

  • Once the waxing service is complete, I will apply a thin layer of aloe to soothe the skin.

How To Care For Your Skin After Waxing

Your skin has just been freshly waxed and gently treated—now let’s keep it calm, clear, and glowing with a few simple aftercare guidelines.

✨ For the Face:

🚫 Avoid Touching or Picking
Try not to touch, rub, or pick at the treated area. Freshly waxed skin is more vulnerable to irritation and bacteria.

🔥 No Heat, Sweat, or Sun for 24 Hours
Avoid saunas, hot showers, intense workouts, and direct sun exposure. Your skin barrier needs time to settle and recover.

🧼 Skip Active Skincare for 48–72 Hours
Hold off on using exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, retinols, or scrubs for at least two to three days. Gentle, hydrating skincare only.

🧴 SPF Is Essential
Freshly waxed skin is more sensitive to UV damage. A lightweight, mineral-based SPF will be applied before you leave—please continue protecting the area if you'll be outside.

😌 Redness or Bumps? Totally Normal.
Mild redness or sensitivity is expected and typically subsides within a few hours. You’re welcome to apply a cool compress, unscented aloe, or a calming mist at home.Please feel free to reach out if you need recommendations.


✨ For the Body:

🧽 Exfoliate 2–3 Times Per Week

After 48 hours, start exfoliating regularly with a gentle scrub, dry brush, or exfoliating glove to prevent ingrown hairs and keep skin smooth.

🧴 Moisturize Daily

Keeping your skin well-hydrated helps soften hair regrowth and maintains overall skin health. Choose a fragrance-free, nourishing lotion or body oil.

📅 Stay Consistent

For best results, book your next body wax every 3–4 weeks. Regular waxing helps reduce regrowth over time and keeps hair coming back softer and finer.

All services are offered at my private lash and brow studio inside Sola Salons in Solana Beach, CA, welcoming clients from Encinitas, Del Mar, Cardiff, and surrounding North County San Diego areas.