Hair Removal and Waxing
Hair-removal questions test growth cycles, wax handling, contraindications, and hygiene. Waxing is within Kentucky's esthetic scope; laser and IPL are not.
Growth cycles
- Anagen - active growth, hair attached to the follicle; the stage waxing reliably removes.
- Catagen - transition, follicle shrinks.
- Telogen - resting; hair sheds.
This is why regrowth timing varies and why clients should return every 3–6 weeks rather than shaving between appointments.
Wax types
Soft wax is applied thin and removed with a strip. Hard (stripless) wax is applied thicker, hardens, and lifts without a strip - preferred for sensitive skin, bikini, and coarse hair. Test temperature on your inner wrist; it should be warm, never hot.
Technique
Cleanse and pre-clean with oil-free product; powder if the skin is moist. Apply with the direction of hair growth, remove against it with the skin held taut. Apply pressure after removal, then a soothing post-wax product. Never double-dip the spatula into the pot.
Contraindications
Isotretinoin (commonly wait 6 months after stopping), topical retinoids and acid exfoliants (stop 3–7 days), recent chemical peel or laser, sunburn, active infection, diabetes with poor circulation, varicose veins, moles (wax around them), pregnancy (skin sensitivity), and any prescription that thins skin.
Aftercare
No sun, heat, sauna, chlorine, friction, or tight clothing for 24–48 hours; no scrubs; moisturize; exfoliate gently after 48 hours to prevent ingrown hairs.
Worked example
A client mentions she started tretinoin last week and wants a lip wax. Decline the wax, explain the risk of lifting skin, and rebook for at least a week after she pauses the retinoid.
Traps
Removing wax with the grain; re-dipping the spatula; waxing over a mole; forgetting to ask about retinoids; and applying wax that is hot enough to burn.