How to Wax at Home
Stray hairs, unibrows, swimsuit season, and hot dates are all good reasons to do a bit of extra grooming. Get rid of those unsightly hairs without going to an expensive salon.
Up next in Waxing & Shaving Tips (11 videos)
Pluck, wax, or shave your way to smooth skin with the help of these Howcast videos.
You Will Need
- Exfoliating gloves
- Towel
- Rubbing alcohol
- Talcum powder or baby powder
- Hot wax or pre-waxed strips
- Aloe vera lotion
Steps
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If you are using hot wax, be careful to heat it according to the directions. It is easy to overheat the wax and cause burns and blistering.
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Step 1
Exfoliate the shower
Use exfoliating gloves or a loofah while you shower to exfoliate the area you will be waxing.
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Step 2
Towel off and swab with alcohol
Dry the area you will be waxing and swab the area with rubbing alcohol to remove bacteria and skin oils.
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Step 3
Dust with powder
Dust the area with talcum or baby powder to absorb any remaining moisture.
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Step 4
Prepare and apply wax
Prepare and apply the wax or wax strips as directed by the package instructions.
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Weigh your options carefully. Cold wax strips are less effective, but hot wax is messier.
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Step 5
Hold skin taut and pull
Hold the skin taut and rip away the wax or strip at a 40-degree angle as quickly as possible. Remove it in the direction of hair growth.
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Removing the wax or strip slowly or at a different angle will be painful.
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Step 6
Continue removal
Continue to remove the hair until you have reached the desired effect.
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Redness is common after waxing. Wax at least 24 hours before you show your new smooth skin.
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Step 7
Treat with aloe vera
Treat the area with aloe vera lotion to soothe irritation and remove redness.
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Ancient Egyptian priests were required to shave their entire bodies, including their eyebrows, to keep away lice and promote cleanliness for conducting rituals.
