Waxing - Frequently Asked Questions

 

Unlike shaving, creaming, plucking or trimming, waxing removes hair directly from the root. This means regrowth is slower, sparser, softer, no itchy stubble, long lasting results, reduces ingrowing hairs and leaves fantastically smooth skin. Waxing is a fast growing trend amongst females and males alike and their reasons for waxing are many and diverse. Many famous celebrities are already on the band wagon!


Can I get any body part waxed?

Salon Thirty One will practically wax anything except your car. In fact the only places we won't touch are scalp hair, beard and eyelashes. Everything else is removable.(nasal, ears, brows, nape of neck, upper cheeks, lower throat, under arms, chest, back, inner thighs, gluteal, arms, legs, toes, hands, fingers, bikini and abdomen).


What does waxing involve?

The area to be treated is coated with a thin layer of warm wax, which shrink wraps the hairs, minimising skin contact and removed by the root. We use a combination of both soft wax, (removed by paper strips) and hard wax, (which sets on the skin and is peeled off by hand) for the most comfortable treatment possible.


Will it hurt?

We have heard it said that the sensation compares to being slapped with a plastic ruler, a momentary 'ouch' that fades quickly. But we can guarantee, it's worth the effort.

It is also worth remembering that we specialise in expertise experienced hair removal and the highly skilled wax technician knows a few tricks to ensure it all goes smoothly and the majority of clients agree, it is nowhere near as bad as they had anticipated. As an added bonus, the procedure gets easier with every subsequent appointment.


Will it feel I uncomfortable afterwards?

Some slight redness and soreness are common temporary reactions, particularly with your very first and second treatment. These should subside within a few hours and many people find that regular waxing results in much less irritation. It is not unusual for the first time waxees to experience a few pimples, particularly on the back, chest, gluteal and bikini areas.- We recommend applying an antiseptic cream with sterile hands for a few days after treatment to calm, protect and soothe the skin and regular exfoliation 48 hours after on areas.


Are there any conditions that will prevent me from being waxed?

Contagious skin conditions, sunburn, chapped or raw skin, diabetes, urinary tract infections, allergies or intolerance to product, underage clients( 16 with parental consent),sexually transmitted infections, hernias or swellings, steroid medication, Roaccutane, Retin -A, Differin, retinoid acne products, thin or fragile skin, Haemophilia, Oedema, Cancer treatment, recent surgery in area to be treated, severe or Unknown skin conditions, heart conditions, epilepsy, raised moles/skin tags, external haemorrhoids Alpha/Beta Hydroxy acids, varicose veins, recent piercings, tattoos, body art, recent scar tissue, infected ingrown hairs, nerve damage or loss of sensation in area, Hepatitis A/B/C, HIV, AIDS, circulatory disorders, nerve damage in area, certain medication.

We do not recommend having your first wax before a special occasion or holiday, as the treated area may be slightly sensitive for a few days following treatment- play it safe and allow a couple of days for things to settle down before surprising your unsuspecting partner or jetting off to warmer climes.


How should I prepare for treatments?

Please shower before appointments, although wipes will also be provided and gently exfoliate the areas to be waxed a few days beforehand. This helps to eliminate any dead skin cells and lifts the hairs, allowing us to get as many of the little blighters as possible.

Do not shave, cream, pluck, trim or tweeze ideally at least 2 weeks minimum prior to appointment, the longer your growth the longer you will be hair free. Waxing on a regular basis is between every 3- 8 weeks for appointments thereafter and we do not recommend any self-treatment between appointments. We will do any necessary trimming for you on the day.

We suggest wearing clean loose fitting clothes, avoiding tight clothing that rubs and irritates unnecessarily.


How long will the treatment take?

This depends largely on the area to be waxed and the density of the hair. Rule of thumb: Eyebrow, nasal, ears, facial- 15 mins. Back / chest - 20 mins. Legs - 15,30 mins. Bikini 15 mins. Your therapist will notify you in advance how long to allow for your personal requirements. First time clients will have to fill out consultation form prior to treatment, although regular treatment becomes quicker and easier every time you attend.


How long will it last?

This varies from person to person depending on area, hair density and genetics, but once the growth pattern is under control ,around every 4-8 weeks to maintain a smooth hair free appearance.


How much does it cost?

We operate a flexible tariff that frees you from 'one price fits all' mentality. The charges are based on the amount of hair you have and how much you want removed, less hair, less money, if in doubt just ask!


What does clippering involve?

Clippering is sometimes utilised prior to treatments, to blend areas evenly, trim before waxing or general tidying, again depending on clients and treatments.


Will I get ingrown hairs after treatment?

It is possible. Waxing removes the entire root and all from the follicle. Your skin naturally hardens and thickens over the area treated so it is important to exfoliate. Use a gentle scrub or mit 2 days after waxing and then continue to do so twice a week. Tea tree, lavender or antiseptic cream will help to prevent infection.


Is it customary to leave gratuities?

This is left solely to your discretion.


Will waxing make my hair grow thicker/ stronger/ darker?

Absolutely not. Waxing does not cause you to grow more follicles, with regular service the area becomes softer, sparser and slower in regrowth. Added to that no stubble, as the hair that grows back is soft. The only things known to stimulate hair growth are hormones, (natural/artificial) some medical conditions and medications and shaving/ creaming. If you are currently on any medications it is imperative that you consult your GP before commencing on a waxing regime.


Do you numb the area before waxing?

Unfortunately there is no effective way to numb the skin prior to treatment, but with the new generation wax, skin contact is greatly minimised, and your technician will make it as quick and comfortable as possible. Remember, before every house sale you have to mow the lawn!


What should I wear for bikini waxing?

Whatever you feel comfortable with, we do offer disposable bikini bottoms for your comfort during the service.


What kind of wax do you use?

We have several new generation wax brands, Outback Organics, Lycon, House Brand in both soft and hard varieties. They are all amazing for sensitive skin.


I am worried about being naked?

Don't panic! Your therapist is not concerned with the shape or size of your body any more than they are concerned with which car you drive. We aim to make all of our clients feel as comfortable as possible and we do understand that you may be feeling nervous. Customers are advised however, that inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated in any capacity whatsoever and will be reported. May we remind clients that CCTV is in operation in the waiting room area for your safety and peace of mind.


After your treatment:

Please feel free to ask your technician if you have any queries or questions regarding your waxing service at any time before or after treatment. We look forward to accommodating you soon in the very near future, please remember to book your next appointment to avoid disappointment.