A wax is an intimate procedure involving the entire vulva. It is highly recommended to wait 24 hours before having sex. The skin is extremely sensitive and delicate, and the pores are open to bacteria right after waxing.
The skin is also irritated and may break out, leaving bumps. Scratching the rashes can lead to infection.
Avoid Sun Exposure
It’s best to avoid sexual activity until 24-hours post-waxing because the area is extremely sensitive and rubbing could lead to irritation and even more inflammation. If you absolutely must, use the most gentle products possible, preferably those with soothing properties, like aloe vera and tea tree oil.
The skin that’s been waxed is more vulnerable to sun damage, too, so it’s important to protect the newly bare areas with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to avoid tanning or spending prolonged time in the sun right after waxing, as this can cause unwanted hyperpigmentation in the affected area.
It’s a good idea to skip a hot bath or shower after a Brazilian wax, too, because the hot water may cause your pores to open up, irritating your skin. Stick with cool or lukewarm baths and showers, and be sure to use a fragrance-free body wash formulated for irritated skin.
Avoid Swimming
A swim in a pool or ocean can irritate freshly waxed skin. The salt in the water, bacteria, and sun can cause a rash or an infection, especially if you have hair follicles that are still open from the wax. It is also best to avoid swimming in chlorinated water because it can take chlorine a while to kill bacteria that may be present.
If you do want to go for a swim, it is recommended that you wait at least 12-24 hours after your wax. You should also skip other activities that will make your sweaty and hot (working out, running, cycling, sauna’s, hot showers and baths), use an ointment for moisture, and avoid any heavy scrubs, loofahs or soaps with artificial fragrance and color.
You can also wear loose, comfortable clothing to reduce friction on your newly sensitive area. Avoid tight-fitting clothes and opt for maxi dresses and flowy pants. Rubin warns that excessive chafing can lead to irritation, ingrown hairs and breakouts. You should also skip the gym if you have recently had your vagina waxed because the friction from exercise and tight-fitting gym clothes can cause bacteria to thrive, leading to infections in your new, tender vaginal area.
Avoid Exfoliating
If you’re into a regular exfoliation routine, it’s best to avoid the waxed area while exfoliating. The skin in the area is super sensitive and will likely sting during exfoliation, especially if it’s freshly waxed.
It’s also not a good idea to work out right before or after getting your Brazilian wax. Vigorous exercise, friction, and excessive sweating can all cause bacteria to enter hair follicles and lead to infection. This can result in a painful condition known as folliculitis, which is characterized by red bumps and pustules, according to Romper.
Add sexual intercourse to this equation and you’ve got yourself a recipe for disaster. Sexual activity involves rubbing against the waxed area, which can further irritate and infect the follicles if not properly cared for. If you do have sex too soon after waxing, you may also develop STDs like HPV or molluscum contagiosum.
Avoid Tight Clothes
Tight clothes cling too tightly to the skin and are super irritating after waxing. They can also trap bacteria that irritates your freshly waxed skin, especially after sweating. Wear loose clothing to your appointment and a few days after waxing. It will help ease irritation and pain.
According to a dermatologist, it’s best to avoid intimate activities for about 24 hours after a Brazilian wax. Sexual intercourse can cause friction that could irritate your super sensitive skin. This can lead to ingrown hairs or even infection.
Avoid the sun directly after your waxing appointment and make sure you use sunscreen. The newly waxed area is prone to hyperpigmentation (permanent darkening of the skin) if exposed to direct sunlight. Similarly, avoid hot showers, saunas and hot tubs for the same reason. Also, don’t use exfoliating products or loofas on the recently waxed areas because it can further irritate them. It’s best to only scrub the areas if you absolutely must. A little regular exfoliation, however, may help minimize the likelihood of ingrown hairs after a wax.
Avoid Excessive Sweating
Sweat and friction can also irritate freshly waxed skin, especially on the labia. This can lead to folliculitis, which can cause red bumps that itch and burn. Folliculitis is treatable at home with cool compresses and over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream.
During your Brazilian wax, your therapist will apply clean, warm wax to different sections of your vulva in stages. This process can take a while and can make the area feel quite warm. It’s normal to sweat more when the area is being touched and it’s not uncommon for a few beads of sweat to form on the surface of your underwear.
To avoid this, it is a good idea to wear loose clothing or plan on skipping baths and showers for 12-24 hours after your wax. Additionally, avoiding vigorous exercise and any other activities that may cause excessive sweat is important. This includes taking a sauna, sunbathing or using a tanning bed. Lastly, avoid applying any deodorants or perfumes to the area that has been waxed. Even though this is a minor irritation, these products can irritate the area.
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