When it comes to waxing, there are two distinct types: hot wax and cold wax. The distinction between the two is fairly self-explanatory, as both types are made up of similar substances but are used for two different techniques. Let's dig into the differences and outline the best options for you!
What Should I Choose?
Your waxing option will depend on what you want out of your waxing experience as well as personal preferences. Generally speaking, cold waxing is easier to do at home, while hot waxing usually takes place in a salon. Hot waxing does come with risks, so it makes sense that, if you are new to waxing, to opt for a cold wax instead. The great news is that Veet offers a variety of strips that you can use for pain-free hair removal.
Hot Wax
This is a treatment most often seen in salons and involves the wax being heated up so it can be applied to the skin, and as it begins to set, it contracts and grips the hairs. In this method, either the wax solidifies and is pulled off in one piece, or a strip of paper or cloth is applied and removed, taking the hairs with it.
Cold Wax
Cold wax works in very much the same way but usually comes pre-measured on prepared strips. They are a great solution for home waxing, as they don’t require a heat source. By rubbing them between your hands, the wax is warmed up to the correct temperature by the warmth of your body, allowing it to grip the hairs when the wax is pulled away.
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Advantages |
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Hot Wax |
Cold Wax |
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The heat can make the process comfortable. It also dilates the pores so the hairs can be removed with less resistance. |
Can be used anywhere, right when you need them – no need for a plug or a microwave. |
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You can decide on the size of the area you want to wax, shaping it for different zones. |
The whole process is a lot quicker. |
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Hot wax can now be used easily at home, with no need to go to the beauty salon. |
This method is very efficient, with very little waste. |
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Disadvantages |
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Hot Wax |
Cold Wax |
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Requires practice and building of a technique to use it properly. |
If the strips aren’t used correctly, then red bumps and ingrown hairs could occur. |
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If using a microwave to heat the wax, it can take some time and practice to get the temperature right. |
Not suitable for very short hairs. |
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Salon hot wax treatments treatments can be very expensive. |
May have to use a lot of strips for large areas. How To Prepare Your Skin For Both Methods |
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How to Prepare Your Skin for These Methods
No matter if you choose a cold wax or a hot wax, you must prepare yourself properly. Otherwise, this could be a rather painful process. First of all, it’s important to let your hair grow first, with around ¼ inches of hair in the area you want to wax. Make sure you also exfoliate your skin and take a long shower or bath to hydrate the skin first, because waxing dry skin can cause irritation and the development of rashes.
Preparing Your Skin for Hot Wax
As a hot wax can be more painful, you want to make sure that your skin’s sensitivity to pain is reduced. Avoid beverages like coffee or alcohol so your skin doesn’t dry out and become irritated. Additionally, if your hair is too long, this can cause a hot wax to hurt your skin, so you should trim it to a ¼ inch. If you are doing a hot wax at home, you need to avoid getting burned, so make sure that you test the temperature first.
Preparing Your Skin for Cold Wax
It’s recommended to shower and moisturize before a cold wax because if your skin is oily before you apply the wax, it's harder for the wax to work. With that said, wet skin isn’t ideal for a cold wax either, so it’s important to pat down your skin dry for effective waxing. It can also make sense to add a little powder as well if you’re sweating from heat or humidity.
Conclusion
Making the decision to wax is a big one, especially if you are a newbie and are concerned about your hair and skin. No matter your preference, you can always rely on Veet® to at least make choosing the wax solution for you a painless process!
