Waxing tips: Your before-and-after wax care guide

Whether you’re new to waxing or a pro, always remember to let the hair grow out a little (for the best results the recommended time frame is 3-4 weeks since your last wax, or 2-3 weeks since your last shave). If your hair is too short, the wax struggles to get a good hold on the hairs to remove them. If they’re too long, it can take a couple of attempts to remove them – ouch!

There’s one thing no self-care moment is complete without: a warm bath. While you soak, the water will also soften the hair, which makes it easier to remove. The warm water can soften your skin too, so we’d recommend waiting a couple of hours before waxing – more than enough time to squeeze in a manicure or a face mask.

Each stage of your skin care routine is important, and exfoliating is an essential part of getting the soft, smooth skin you want. So here’s how to exfoliate before waxing: a day or two ahead, gently buff away dry skin with a body scrub or polish. This will help give the wax a good grip on the hair, and not your skin. Adding our Dove Exfoliating Body Polish with Pomegranate Seeds & Shea Butter (opens in a new window) into your pre-wax routine will buff away dry skin and leave it feeling soft and nourished.

You’ll need to keep your legs clean and dry for the first 48 hours after waxing, and also avoid anything that could irritate your delicate skin. The list includes exfoliating, strong sunlight, saunas, synthetic clothes, and steamy, hot baths (another reason to make the most of your pre-wax one).

If you’re wondering whether to exfoliate before or after your wax, you can do both – but after waxing, exfoliating is a must. Two or three times a week will be enough to help you avoid the ingrown hairs and bumps that can come with regrowth. Made with ¼ moisturizing cream, our nourishing Exfoliating Body Polishes are the perfect addition to your post-wax skincare routine, leaving your skin feeling silky and smooth – just don’t forget the 48-hour rule.

In the first few days after waxing, take warm showers (over hot ones) and use caring, moisturizing products like our Pampering Care Coconut & Cacao After-Bath Body Whip (opens in a new window). This rich, ultra-whipped body cream melts into skin leaving it beautifully nourished and touchably soft.