Hair Removal and Makeup Application
Hair removal and makeup fundamentals
Hair grows in cycles: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (rest). Waxing is most effective in anagen. Soft wax is applied thinly in the direction of hair growth and removed against it with cloth strips; hard wax is applied thicker, cools, and is removed without strips, which suits sensitive areas. Temperature must be tested-too hot causes burns. Patch-test tinting and ask about allergies.
Contraindications to waxing include isotretinoin use, recent retinoid or acid use, recent peels or laser, sunburn, active infection, varicose veins, moles unless cleared, and diabetes with poor circulation. Threading and sugaring are alternatives. Laser and intense pulsed light are advanced or medical modalities governed by state scope-verify before offering.
Makeup application begins with sanitation: wash or disinfect brushes, use disposable applicators, and never double-dip. Match foundation to the jawline in natural light, identify undertone (cool, warm, neutral), and use color theory-opposite colors neutralize. Traps: waxing over a mole; using the same mascara wand on two clients; matching foundation to the wrist. Rule of thumb: test wax on the inner wrist and keep strips thin. Worked example: a client on isotretinoin requests a brow wax-defer until cleared by a physician.