Facials and waxing put considerable stress on the skin, so both of these processes may be concerning for people with sensitive skin or a history of allergies. However, there are specific approaches that ensure that even the most sensitive skin stays healthy while providing all of the benefits of facials and waxing. Our Massage and Wellness Collective experts share tips on ensuring you have a relaxing and trouble-free experience for facials and waxing.
What Is Sensitive Skin?
Sensitive skin comes in many different forms, each with its own characteristics. These are a few of the most common sensitive skin concerns the experts at Massage and Wellness Collective encounter.
Reactive Skin: If exposed to external factors like direct sunlight, temperature changes, and wind, your skin will react by showing redness, stinging, and burning.
Thin Skin: People genetically predisposed to have thin skin have a weaker barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation. This skin type can be sensitive and show the common signs of aging earlier.
Allergenic Skin: Some people may have oversensitive immune systems, which manifest in developing allergic reactions to certain proteins in food, latex, pollen, drugs, and the environment. The skin reacts by itching, showing signs of swelling, and hives.
Rosacea-Prone Skin: Rosacea is a long-term skin condition characterized by redness, rashes, or, at times, pimple-filled lums, typically appearing on the nose and cheeks.
Acne-Prone Sensitive Skin: Acne-prone skin may have genetic or lifestyle-based origins, specifically if your diet is rich in milk, carbohydrates, and sugar.
What Kind of Facial Should I Get if I Have Sensitive Skin?
Hydrating Facials: Hydrating facials involve removing impurities from the skin, followed by gentle exfoliation. The combination of serums and masks containing humectants will help keep moisture levels up without causing irritation.
Oxygen Facials: This procedure improves circulation and delivers oxygen-rich serums to the skin without the redness, irritation, stinging, swelling, or burning sensations that can accompany other types of facials.
LED Light Therapy: This procedure treats various skin issues, such as acne. It is also recommended for treating psoriasis and fine lines. It uses red and blue light or combinations of both. It is non-invasive and works with various skin types without issues.
Calming Facials: Calming facials soothe and reduce inflammation using ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, such as cucumber, green tea, chamomile, and calendula.
Enzyme Facials: Ingredients used in enzyme facials naturally reduce inflammation while exfoliating the skin gently without causing irritation.
What Are Some General Tips and Tricks for Facials on Sensitive Skin?
Choosing facials with gentle procedures and natural products is critical to caring for sensitive skin. Before considering new products, it is also crucial to patch-test the ingredients and choose gentle exfoliants instead of harsh ones. Here are other tips you need to keep in mind when taking care of your sensitive skin daily:
- Keep your skincare routine simple
- Use lukewarm water for cleaning
- Observe your skin closely and communicate with your esthetician if you experience discomfort
- Protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every two hours when outdoors
- Choose gentle cleansers and moisturizers
- Avoid harsh soaps and detergents
- Pat your skin dry
- Use a humidifier
Can I Get Waxing Even if I Have Sensitive Skin?
Yes! Though waxing can sometimes lead to redness, irritation, or even severe reactions, like skin lifting, it is possible to proceed with waxing if caution is observed.
How Can I Get Waxing Safely if I Have Sensitive Skin?
Hydration and Anti-Inflammation are Critical
Stay hydrated before waxing. Water intake before your appointment helps keep your skin supple and keeps inflammation down. Avoid irritants such as caffeine or alcohol to keep irritation and inflammation minimal. Moreover, consuming food rich in potassium, such as bananas or cucumbers, can help ease skin sensitivity. To improve waxing results, consider exfoliating your skin with a dry brush or an oil-based scrub once a week to remove dead skin cells.
Disclose Your Skin Condition to Your Esthetician
Communicating with your esthetician about your skin condition is crucial. At Massage and Wellness Collective, we value our clients and take their concerns into account before we proceed with waxing. We will ask questions such as “Does your skin feel itchy or hot quickly?” and other relevant questions to determine the extent of your skin’s sensitivity.
Prep with the Right Products
Consider using soothing pre-wax skin oil to protect sensitive areas, such as underarms and bikini lines. The oil will provide a barrier to help protect your skin while revitalizing any brittle, dry hair prone to breakage.
Sample on a Small Area First
Sampling wax on a small skin area is a wise move to determine how your skin will react. Start with less sensitive areas first, such as the legs or arms. If your skin takes longer to regain its natural tone, proceed with caution when waxing sensitive areas like the underarms, bikini line, and face.
Choose the Right Wax
Not all wax is suited to every skin type and condition. For instance, hard wax can be gentle on the skin and often works well with sensitive skin. Our waxing specialists will recommend high-quality wax formulated for sensitive skin to help ensure a smooth experience without irritation.
For Facials and Waxing in Portsmouth, NH: Consider Massage and Wellness Collective
At Massage and Wellness Collective, waxing and facials are possible for people with sensitive skin. We offer a sanctuary for people who seek to restore the balance of their bodies, re-energize their souls, treat their senses, and radiate beauty through skin-friendly facials and waxing procedures. We use only the best natural ingredients to ensure that clients with sensitive skin benefit from the best possible results.
Book a session now! Our experienced estheticians are ready to provide individualized solutions that are perfect for your needs. We also offer a wide selection of massage and wellness treatments to create the perfect customized program for you!