Whether you’re new to waxing or a seasoned pro, proper before and aftercare is key to getting the best results and keeping your skin happy. At the Milan Institute Student Salon, we want every waxing session to leave you feeling smooth, confident, and cared for. Here’s everything you need to know to prep and protect your skin before and after your wax.
Before Your Wax: Set Yourself Up for Success
Exfoliation is Everything
Exfoliating before your wax helps remove dead skin cells, allowing the wax to grip the hair—not your skin. This leads to a smoother finish, fewer ingrown hairs, and less discomfort.
- ✅ Best: Exfoliate 48–72 hours before your appointment
- 👍 Good: Exfoliate 24 hours before
- ❌ Avoid: Exfoliating the day of your wax—this can cause irritation
Do’s Before Your Appointment
- Let your hair grow to about ¼ to ½ inch (roughly the length of a grain of rice)
- Shower beforehand to remove oils, sweat, and makeup
- Wear loose-fitting clothes, especially for intimate waxing, to reduce friction
Don’ts Before Your Appointment
- Avoid lotions, oils, or makeup on the area to be waxed
- Skip caffeine and alcohol the day of—these can increase skin sensitivity
- Don’t book your wax right before a big event
- If you’re using Accutane, Retinol, or Tretinoin, wait before waxing to avoid skin irritation
Aftercare: Keep Your Skin Calm & Clear
First 24 Hours
- Avoid touching the waxed area to prevent irritation and bacteria
- Skip deodorants, lotions, cosmetics, and perfumed products
- Shower with cool water and avoid heat, saunas, and steam rooms
- No exfoliating, swimming, tanning, or working out
- Wear loose clothing and avoid friction
- No sex of any kind for intimate waxing areas
3–10 Days Post-Wax
- Gently exfoliate 2–3 times a week
- Use fragrance-free lotions or gels with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile
- Avoid heavy or greasy products that can clog pores
- Stick to a regular waxing schedule based on your hair growth:
- Facial areas: every 2–4 weeks
- Arms, legs, underarms, chest, back: every 3–6 weeks
- Bikini/Brazilian: every 3–6 weeks
Ready to Book Your Waxing Session?
Let our expert estheticians take care of you! Book your appointment online with the Milan Institute Student Salon and enjoy smooth, radiant skin with confidence.