Bumps After Waxing: How to Prevent and Treat Them
Waxing the bikini area, face, legs, and armpits quickly and effectively removes hair in unwanted areas. It is common and normal to see small bumps appear on the surface of the waxed skin almost immediately or over a period of days after a waxing appointment.
Key takeaways:
Small bumps are common and can appear after waxing for several reasons, such as skin irritation, folliculitis, or ingrown hairs.
People with sensitive skin, those more prone to allergies, or those who do not prep the skin appropriately before a waxing treatment are more prone to bumps after waxing.
Bumps after waxing will generally go away within one week to two weeks, depending on the reason for the bumps and the severity.
You can avoid bumps after waxing by exfoliating before an appointment, choosing the right specialist, and wearing loose clothing after the appointment.
What are the small bumps that appear after waxing
The small, red bumps that appear after waxing can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing side effect of waxing. Although unsightly, these small bumps are common and typically clear up within a few days. There are three common reasons for bumps to spear on the skin.
Skin irritation. This is very common and usually occurs immediately after waxing and typically presents on individuals with sensitive skin. It can show up as red, irritated bumps on the skin and cause itching and irritation. This normally will subside within a few hours of a waxing appointment.
Folliculitis. This type of reaction will happen within two days after waxing and occurs due to bacteria and yeast entering the hair follicles during or immediately after waxing. This can appear as red or white “pimple-like” bumps on the skin and can be irritating and unsightly.
Ingrown hairs. This typically occurs about one week after waxing as the hair starts to regrow. Because the skin's surface is healed, the hair can grow under the skin, causing redness, swelling, and pain.
Allergic reactions. This can occur after waxing the skin. If there is an allergy to the scent or ingredient in the wax, it can cause localized reactions in the skin. This can cause redness, small bumps, and even hives.
Where can the bumps appear?
Bumps can appear on any area of the body after waxing, and the specific area can depend on the person getting a wax treatment.
It is common to see bumps after waxing appears on almost all body areas; however, they are most common on areas proximal to the body, such as the bikini, armpits, face, and thighs. According to one study, it is less common to see bumps on distal areas of the body, such as the lower legs and arms.
Why are waxing bumps more common for some people?
Some people may be more prone to bumps after waxing for several reasons.
Skin sensitivity. Some people are more prone to bumps appearing immediately on the skin after waxing due to sensitive skin. If you are someone with sensitive skin, it can be beneficial to test an area before waxing a larger area.
Texture of the hair. People with coarse or curly hair are more prone to ingrown hairs that appear about one week after waxing. This hair texture can more easily get trapped beneath the skin’s surface following a waxing appointment.
Improper technique. Although waxing specialists are generally trained well, if there is any bacteria or fungus on the skin's surface, the wax is too hot, or the strip is pulled too forcefully all increase the likelihood of getting bumps after waxing. It’s essential to seek out a professional with a history of positive feedback before booking a waxing appointment.
Allergy. Although uncommon, it can be possible for an allergic reaction to occur. Ask your specialist for the wax ingredients and scents if you are prone to skin allergies.
How long does it take for the bumps to go away?
Healing time may vary depending on what is causing the bumps.
Skin sensitivities and localized allergic reactions can subside within a few hours to two days after a waxing appointment.
Folliculitis is the most common skin reaction after waxing and generally subsides within 24–48 hours after waxing.
If ingrown hairs occur, this can cause painful, hard lumps under the skin's surface. Ingrown hairs generally don’t appear until about one week after waxing; this can last up to one week after the first sign of an ingrown hair.
Is it normal to bleed after waxing?
Small “pinpoint” bleeding at the site of the pores is normal after waxing and is said to be a sign that the hair was removed at the root successfully. Hair follicles have a blood supply just as any other part of the body, and when hair is removed, it will cause a small amount of blood to escape the skin's surface.
If you are on blood thinning medications or prone to bleeding, check with a waxing specialist before an appointment to see if waxing is appropriate.
Best ways to prevent bumps
Several steps can be taken to prevent bumps on the skin after waxing.
Prepare the skin. Be sure to remove oils, moisturizers, and makeup before a waxing appointment to prevent complications or bacteria from being on the skin. It’s also a good idea to exfoliate the skin before a waxing appointment to help release stubborn hairs around the skin's surface.
Choose a reputable waxing specialist. It is essential to seek out the right professional, ensure they use high-quality wax, and educate you before your appointment on treatment and aftercare.
Test for allergies. As noted above, some people can experience an allergic reaction after waxing. If you have allergies, it’s essential to check with your specialist to see if some ingredients could cause a reaction before waxing.
Wear loose clothing. Wearing loose-fitting, comfortable clothing after a waxing appointment can help prevent the clothing from rubbing and irritating the skin’s surface, making it less likely to cause bumps.
Tips and treatments after waxing
If bumps after waxing occur, remember that this is very common and normal. There are a few things you can do to help soothe and alleviate the irritation and pain and also help the skin heal faster.
NSAIDS. Taking over-the-counter, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication can help decrease the inflammation at the site and help relieve the pain and irritation caused by folliculitis.
Cleanse the area. Gently cleansing the area with cool water and gentle soap can help soothe and reduce bacteria on the skin’s surface. Applying a cool compress after cleansing can also be beneficial.
Apply soothing lotion or gel. Applying a soothing cream provided by your waxing specialist or a soothing gel, such as aloe vera, can help relieve some of the irritation caused by waxing.
Avoid further irritation. Avoid touching, itching, or rubbing waxed areas to help avoid further irritation and potential infections.
Moisturize regularly. After two days, keeping the skin hydrated and healthy is advised. You can do this by applying a gentile or hypoallergenic lotion once or twice daily.
When to see a doctor
Although uncommon, folliculitis can become a deeper infection if not managed appropriately. This can cause a furuncle, or boil, a hard nodule under the skin's surface. If this occurs or you notice the area not healing within one week after a waxing appointment, seek medical attention.
Waxing is a safe and effective way to rid the body of unwanted hair. Although it's common to see small bumps after waxing there are ways to prevent bumps, such as preparing the skin and seeking out a qualified professional. If bumps after waxing do occur, you can treat them with NSAIDs and apply a cool compress to the area. Bumps after waxing should clear up within a few days and you should then be left with smooth, clear, hair-free skin.
Resources:
International Journal of Dermatology. Post Waxing Folliculitis: A clinicopathological evaluation.
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. Folliculitis.
Skin Microbial Ecology. Skin Microflora and bacteria infections on the Skin.
