Aftercare
Now for the serious stuff… Unfortunately, men’s backs and chests are particularly prone to ingrown hairs so if you don’t want to suffer, then follow nkd’s advice or ignore it at your peril!
nkd sells a range of specialist pre- and post-care waxing lotions and potions, which your therapist can talk you through. These range from dead sea salts for bathing, tea tree oil moisturisers and exfoliators for use on even the most sensitive of areas, skin soothers, hair retardants to slow down hair growth and various specialist ingrown hair treatments. We even sell a bespoke aftercare pack, which contains everything you need to ensure that your waxed skin stays smooth and bump-free.
- Moisturise the waxed area regularly. Ingrown hairs are often caused by dry or flaky skin which does not allow the hairs to grow through. If you are moisturising your intimate bits, be sure to use an appropriate cream or oil that won’t aggravate these most sensitive of areas.
- Rubbing antiseptic cream into the waxed area for 3 days after treatment can sooth and protect the skin. Always wash your hands before applying any product.
- Exfoliate the waxed area several times a week to get rid of dead skin cells. Again, if it’s an intimate area, make sure you choose a suitable scrub. The exfoliator needs to be grainy enough to have an effect, but not so harsh that will irritate your skin or make it sore. In fact, over-exfoliation or the use of an unsuitable scrub will graze the skin and may actually cause ingrown hairs, rather than prevent them.
- For hard-to-reach areas such as the back, back straps/mitts/gloves can be good. However, it is important to keep these clean and dry and to replace them regularly.
- Dead sea salt used as bath salts can help prevent infection as can anti-bacterial shower gels. Soothing lotions and gels, especially those containing products such as tea-tree oil, aloe vera and witch-hazel can also alleviate irritation.
And…
- No fake tans, massages, extreme heat treatments (e.g. very hot baths or showers, saunas, steam rooms), swimming, sunbathing (including sun beds or any other exposure to UV light) or tight clothing for 24 — 48 hours.
- Try and avoid exercise or vigorous activity for 24-hours. Do not scratch or touch the area with unwashed hands.
- Avoid applying deodorant, anything perfumed or make-up to the waxed area for 24 hours.
In the unlikely event that your skin has not returned to normal after 24 hours, seek advice from your GP in case you have had an allergic reaction to the wax or in case an infection is developing.