Body and face waxing is not just for women. Salons and spas have seen a notable increase over the past few years in their male waxing clientele. From the occasion back wax right before vacation to the regular full body waxer, men everywhere are reaping the benefits that come from waxing their hair.
Body Waxing
The most common body waxing services received by men are the back wax and the chest wax. These services are suitable for men with any amount of hair, from sparse patches to full coverage. Some choose to get a back or chest wax prior to vacation, some maintain throughout summer months, and others maintain year-round.
Tips for the back and chest wax:
- The chest and the back are more prone to post-waxing irritation and breakout than other areas so it is important for the first-time and occasional waxer to wax 5 – 7 days prior to vacation.
- Wear a loose fitting cotton shirt to the appointment. Some men report that the area feels a little tender immediately after waxing.
- Exfoliation is important between waxings. Starting a few days after the appointment, lightly exfoliate the area 2 to 3 times per week to help prevent ingrown hairs. This does not require extra time or effort. Simply using a washcloth or gentle exfoliating cloth in the shower while cleansing is sufficient.
- Waxing the chest and back can sometimes trigger a histamine reaction in the area. This is not common, but it does happen. Take an antihistamine if small hives appear after waxing. If this has happened before when waxing, take an antihistamine prior to the appointment.
Leg waxing, arm waxing, and underarm waxing services are also available. Hair needs to be approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch in length for best results. The esthetician may request trimming hair before arriving to the appointment if the hair in the area is long. When the hairs are too long they are more prone to breakage which does not cause long-term damage but can result in quicker regrowth.
Face Waxing
Many men get their eyebrows waxed whether for personal preference or at the request of their spouse. Brow waxing in general for men is slightly different then brow waxing for women. Most women have their brows noticeably arched and shaped. Most men have their brows subtly cleaned up.
During the consultation, before waxing begins, is the time to discuss expected results and shape. This will be followed by a quick cleanse of the area, waxing, tweezing if needed, and trimming of long brow hairs.
Slight irritation or redness immediately after waxing is fairly common. This varies from person to person and can last several minutes to several hours.
For more detailed information about brow waxing read Brow Shaping and Maintenance.
The Male Brazilian
Not just for women anymore, more and more men are getting bikini and brazilian waxes. Read The Male Brazilian to learn more about this service.
How Long Does Waxing Last
The first-time, vacation, and occasional waxer will likely notice some new hair growth within a few weeks due to naturally staggered hair growth cycle. This part of regrowth will be sparse, about one-third of the hair normally present. Soon after the remaining hair will begin growing in.
Regular waxing will begin to leave the area hair free for up to two months, even longer for some. Over time the density of hair in the area can start to decrease. This is of particular interest for those interested in back and chest waxing as hair in the area can become more sparse.
Waxing is a great alternative to shaving and results in far less irritation with significantly longer periods of being hair-free and no rough stubble.
Julie Martin - Julie is a licensed esthetician and instructor, makeup artist, and certified aromatherapist. She trained and worked in Seattle, Washington ...
