Getting a Brazilian wax can be a rewarding experience for many women who want smooth, hair-free skin in their bikini area. However, some unpleasant side effects like itching, redness, and irritation can occur afterwards. Here’s what you need to know about itching after a Brazilian wax and how to find relief.
What causes itching after a Brazilian wax?
Itching is a common side effect of waxing that can start within 24-48 hours after your appointment. There are a few reasons why you may experience itching:
- Inflammation – Waxing removes hair by the root, which causes inflammation and irritation of the hair follicles and skin.
- Regrowth – As waxed hair starts to regrow, it can cause mild itching and prickling sensations.
- Irritation – Skin may become irritated from the wax itself or from abrasions caused by the waxing strips.
Itching tends to peak about 2-3 days after waxing and then gradually subsides over the next week as skin calms down. The bikini area is especially sensitive, so Brazilian waxes often cause more itching compared to other waxed areas.
How long does the itching last?
For most women, itching after a Brazilian wax lasts about 3-5 days. However, the exact duration can vary:
- With repeated waxes, your skin may become less sensitive and the itching may decrease.
- Conversely, if your skin is highly sensitive, the itching may last longer.
- Bikini area skin tends to remain irritated longer than legs or arms after waxing.
- Excess irritation or inflammation can prolong the itching.
If itching persists beyond a week or is very intense, consult your waxing technician or dermatologist.
How to relieve itching after a Brazilian wax
You don’t have to suffer through days of misery from waxing itchiness. Here are some effective remedies to help soothe and calm irritated skin:
- Cold compress – Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen peas in a towel and apply to affected areas to reduce inflammation.
- Oatmeal bath – An oatmeal bath can help dry out weeping/oozing irritation and ease itchiness.
- Witch hazel – This natural astringent has anti-irritant properties to help relieve itching and discomfort.
- Aloe vera gel – The cooling gel from the aloe plant is very soothing on inflamed hair follicles.
- Antihistamines – Oral anti-itch medications like Benadryl can temporarily stop itching.
- Hydrocortisone cream – Mild OTC steroid creams decrease inflammation that causes itching.
- Baking soda paste – Make a paste with baking soda and water and apply to irritated areas for relief.
Avoid scratching the affected area, which can worsen irritation. Wear loose, breathable clothing and cotton underwear to allow skin to breathe and heal.
Tips to prevent itching after future Brazilian waxes
While some itching is inevitable, you may be able to reduce irritation with these pro tips:
- Exfoliate gently 2-3 days before waxing to remove dead skin and allow for a closer wax.
- Avoid heat treatments, hot tubs, and activities that cause sweating right before/after waxing.
- Take an oral pain reliever before your appointment to help minimize inflammation.
- Use an aloe-based post-wax product to soothe skin.
- Wear loose cotton underwear and clothing for 24-48 hours.
- Apply a cold compress and anti-itch creams as needed.
Finding an experienced waxing professional is also key. A skilled aesthetician will be able to perform the wax properly to minimize skin trauma.
When to see a doctor
Intense or persistent itching after waxing could potentially indicate an infection or allergic reaction. See your doctor promptly if you experience:
- Itching that lasts longer than 1 week
- Redness and swelling spreading beyond the waxed area
- Pus or foul-smelling discharge
- Fever or flu-like symptoms
These symptoms may signal a more serious problem like infection or folliculitis that requires medical treatment with prescription antibiotics or steroids.
Conclusion
Mild to moderate itching is very common when getting a Brazilian wax due to inflammation of the delicate bikini skin. Proper at-home care and practicing waxing precautions can help reduce irritation. But if severe or long-lasting itching occurs, see your doctor to rule out potential complications like infection. With the right treatment, you can get back to enjoying your smooth, sexy waxed results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my skin itch so much after a Brazilian wax?
Itching is caused by inflammation of the hair follicles and skin irritation from the waxing process. The bikini area is very sensitive, so Brazilian waxes often cause more itching than other waxed areas.
How long will the itching last after a Brazilian wax?
For most women, itching peaks 2-3 days after waxing and subsides within 5 days. But duration varies based on individual skin sensitivity and proper aftercare.
What is the best way to soothe itching after a Brazilian wax?
Cold compresses, aloe vera gel, hydrocortisone cream, and antihistamines can help relieve itching. Avoid scratching and wear loose, breathable clothing.
Is it normal for the skin to be red and irritated after a Brazilian wax?
Yes, it’s normal to have some redness, swelling, and irritation for the first 24-48 hours. This is part of the body’s inflammatory response. It should gradually improve with proper aftercare.
How can I prevent itching with future Brazilian waxes?
Exfoliate before waxing, avoid heat/sweating, take a pain reliever, use post-wax products, and wear loose cotton underwear to minimize irritation with future waxes.
When should I call my doctor about itching after a Brazilian wax?
See your doctor if itching lasts longer than 1 week, you have signs of infection like pus or fever, or redness/swelling spreads beyond the waxed area.
Key Takeaways
- Itching is common after a Brazilian wax due to inflammation of hair follicles and irritated skin.
- Itching typically peaks 2-3 days afterwards and lasts 3-5 days total.
- Apply cold compresses, hydrocortisone cream, witch hazel, aloe vera gel to soothe itching.
- See your doctor if itching is severe or accompanied by signs of infection.
- With proper care, you can minimize discomfort and enjoy your smooth waxed bikini area.
Itching Severity
| Itching Severity | Duration | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Mild | 2-3 days | Cold compress, aloe vera gel |
| Moderate | 3-5 days | Anti-itch cream, oral antihistamines |
| Severe | Over 1 week | See doctor for possible infection |
