Hair Removal: Waxing, Depilation, and Related Safety
Know the hair
The follicle cycles through anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (rest). Waxing works best on anagen hair about 1/4 inch long; longer hair is trimmed first. Hair removed in telogen returns faster and finer results need a series of appointments.
Screen before you wax
Absolute cautions include isotretinoin (often for 6–12 months after stopping), current prescription retinoids on the area, recent chemical peels or laser, sunburn, active infection, moles or raised lesions in the treatment area, and varicose veins. Diabetes, blood thinners, and pregnancy call for a provider conversation, not an automatic yes.
Technique
Cleanse and pre-clean the area, patch test new products, test wax temperature on your inner wrist, apply a thin even layer with the direction of hair growth, hold the skin taut, and remove against the growth with the skin supported. Press to soothe, apply post-depilatory care, and instruct the client to avoid heat, sun, friction, and tight clothing for 24–48 hours.
Sanitation
Wax pots, disposable spatulas, gloves, and clean linen for each client. Never double-dip - used wax is contaminated wax. Hard wax, soft wax, sugaring, threading, and chemical depilatories are all in scope; electrolysis and laser are not.
Traps: the removal direction is the most-missed concept; "wax is hot enough to self-disinfect" is false; waxing over a mole or nevus is not permitted.
Rule of thumb: apply with the growth, remove against it, and never put a used spatula back in the pot.