Threading, Waxing and Hair Removal Techniques
What this domain covers
This domain tests hair-growth reasoning, thread and wax technique, brow shaping and aftercare.
Principles
- Hair should be about 6 mm long and the interval 3-4 weeks so the same follicles are caught in anagen.
- Threading: a doubled cotton thread is twisted into a knot that traps hairs and lifts them against the direction of growth. Hold the skin taut, work in small sections, use a fresh thread per client.
- Strip (soft) wax: apply thinly in the direction of hair growth, press the strip, then remove against the growth and parallel to the skin while supporting the skin.
- Hot (hard) wax: applied against the growth and removed against it, gripping the hair without a strip; the working temperature is higher, so always test on the inner wrist.
- Aftercare: no sun, heat, sauna, gym or perfumed products for 24 hours; soothe with aloe or a calming lotion; exfoliate gently after 48 hours to prevent ingrown hairs.
Worked example
Brow shaping by the three-point method: the inner point sits vertically above the tear duct, the arch above the outer edge of the iris, the tail on a diagonal from the nostril past the outer eye corner. Reasoning: measuring the points protects natural brow proportions and prevents over-thinning the arch.
Contraindications
Isotretinoin within six months, blood thinners, active infection, recent peel or laser, sunburn, moles and varicose veins in the area, fragile diabetic skin without clearance.
Traps
- Double-dipping the spatula in the wax pot.
- Waxing over a mole or varicose vein.
- Using strip wax on very short coarse hair and blaming the product.