Managing Waxing Complications: Ingrown Hairs and Skin Irritation

• Red papules and skin irritation
• Pustules (small, inflamed bumps)
• The development of pus

Professional Management and Extraction

If a client presents with an embedded hair, the professional must use sterile tools to avoid introducing bacteria into the skin.

Extraction Protocol

1. Access: Use a sterile lancet to gently probe or lift the skin overlying the hair to gain access.
2. Removal: Once the hair is accessible, grasp the follicle at the base using sterile forceps (or blunt-edged tweezers) and pull the hair gently in the direction of growth.
3. Aftercare: Apply an antiseptic cream or oil to the area.

Professional Tip: For male clients with chronic issues, consider a specialized facial treatment. This may include desincrustation (using a galvanic current machine) to emulsify oil deposits around the follicle, followed by the use of a magnifying lamp to identify and extract embedded hairs.

Advanced Skin Treatments

For widespread issues, such as rapid skin growth over follicles on the legs, practitioners should recommend regular exfoliation. Using a loofah or enzymatic products helps slough off keratinized cells, preventing the skin from "trapping" the hair.

Topical Treatments and Chemical Exfoliants

Chemical exfoliation is a highly effective way to manage and prevent ingrown hairs by thinning the top layer of the epidermis.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)

Products containing high percentages of AHA are particularly helpful. A common ingredient found in specialized after-care lotions is acetylsalicylic acid (a derivative of salicylic acid).

• Salicylic Acid / Acetylsalicylic Acid: These help provide gentle exfoliation and can assist in treating the bumps associated with ingrown hairs.
• Caution: Always check for allergies. For example, products containing acetylsalicylic acid must NOT be used on clients with aspirin allergies.

Commercial Product Examples

• Folisan: An astringent and exfoliant that helps prevent razor bumps and razor burn.
• Ingro Zero: A formulation designed to relieve the discomfort and itchiness associated with ingrown hairs.

Other Common Waxing Complications

Burns

Burns occur when wax is applied at a temperature too high for the client's skin.

• Identification: Burned skin appears very red, and in severe cases, multiple layers of skin may be removed.
• Immediate Action: Apply a cold compress immediately, wipe the area with water-soaked cotton wool, and apply soothing agents like Zambuk ointment, lavender oil, or specialized burn creams.

Bruising

Bruising is often caused by a failure to support the skin.

• The Cause: If the skin is not held in a taut position during the removal of the wax strip, the pressure can cause hematoma or bruising.
• Prevention: Always manipulate your body to reach the area and ensure you are pulling the strip quickly while holding the skin firmly.

Fine White Pustules

During facial or lip waxing, clients may develop fine white pustules. This is generally caused by the overstimulation of the sebaceous glands, often due to using wax strips that are too large for the area or using wax that is too hot.

Exam Tip: To prevent pustules during facial waxing, always use small strips and work in small, controlled sections.