As a woman, you’d agree with me that one of the biggest discomforts we face during our menstrual flow is the need to stay clean and fresh always. This feeling is most pronounced in places like your armpits, pubic area, and legs. It’s no surprise that women prefer waxing as a hair removal method because it offers a smoother and cleaner finish than shaving or epilation. But then, you may wonder if you can still schedule a wax appointment during your period. In this article, we’d be answering that burning Q, ‘Can I get a wax on my period?’
What Happens During Your Menstrual Flow?
Menstrual flow occurs when the uterus lining sheds about once every month, usually four to seven days. During this time, some women often experience bloating, breast soreness, mood swings or irritability, backaches, headaches, and of course, blood flow. It’s not unusual to feel tender, swollen or even a little bit sore in your genital area, mainly due to hormonal changes as your body prepares for your period. The change in your hormones may also increase your pain threshold, making you more sensitive to pain sensations.
Can I Go For a Wax on My Period?
Yes. Definitely. Your menstrual cycle does not automatically mean you can’t get a wax. However, here are a few things to keep in mind before scheduling that appointment:
1. Consider Your Comfort
Getting a bikini wax while you have your period can be uncomfortable and painful for some women. It’s best to consider how you feel about this before making a booking. If you’re in pain or feeling more sensitive than usual, reschedule your appointment for a time when you’re feeling comfortable. Some women prefer to reschedule their appointments to avoid discomfort and pain. Most importantly, you should listen to your body and do what feels good for you. If you cannot wait, get a tampon to help manage the blood flow.
2. Plan Your Appointment
If you’ve decided to go ahead with your wax, it’s essential to schedule your appointment around your menstrual period. You should avoid scheduling it on heavy flow days, particularly on the first two days, as the area may be more sensitive and painful because the cervix is lower during menstruation. You should choose a day when your flow is slow or your menstrual period is almost over. In addition, you should stay hydrated to reduce sensitivity during waxing.
3. Let Your Waxer Know
Your waxer should be aware of your menstrual cycle before the start of the procedure. This information is essential because it may influence how they handle your area. They may also suggest rearranging your appointment or asking you to reschedule for a better time. If your flow is extra heavy during your appointment, you should inform your waxer so that they can handle your area with extra care.
4. Take a Painkiller
If you’re particularly sensitive or concerned about pain, you may consider taking a painkiller. Painkillers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen are reliable pain-relievers that can help reduce any discomfort you may feel.
What Types of Bikini Wax Exist and What Are Their Implications?
There are several types of wax you can choose from, depending on your preference and pain tolerance level. Knowing these different types will give you an idea of what to opt for, depending on your pain threshold and hair growth cycle.
1. Brazilian Wax
The Brazilian wax is a popular option that removes hair from your pubic area’s entire genital region, including your labia, perineum, and anus. It leaves a little strip of hair on your pubic bone as an option.
2. French Wax
A French Wax is sometimes called a bikini-line wax. It removes hair from the sides of your labia and top pubic hairline, leaving a small strip of upper pubic hair.
3. Bikini Wax
A bikini wax removes hair from the sides of your bikini line, limiting the amount that can be seen around your panty line. Bikini waxes have various styles, such as a mini bikini, which is a smaller version of the Brazilian wax, removing hair from the sides and under the navel.
4. Full legs Wax
A full leg wax removes hair from your entire legs, leaving you completely hairless. This method is particularly effective during your menstrual cycle as the leg area is less sensitive than the bikini area.
Does Waxing Cause Ingrown Hairs?
Ingrown hairs are hair strands that have grown back into the skin instead of growing out. These hairs can be irritating and sometimes lead to inflammation, infection, or interference with normal hair growth. Yes, waxing can cause ingrown hairs, particularly in the bikini areas. Several factors may contribute to the development of ingrown hairs after waxing.
1. Dead Skin Build-Up
Dead skin cells that pile up on your skin could trap or cover new hair growth, causing it to grow back inwards.
2. Tight Clothing
Tight clothing, particularly underwear, can force hairs to turn back into the skin when it rubs and chafes against the skin.
3. Pre-existing Conditions
If you had an ingrown hair before your waxing session, it could worsen the situation if not handled properly.
4. Shaving Between Waxes
Shaving between waxing sessions can cause the hair to grow back inwards instead of growing out. Therefore, it’s best to avoid shaving when growing out hair for your next waxing session.
What Are the Steps to Follow Before and After a Waxing Appointment?
1. Pre-wax Preparation
Preparing your skin before a wax appointment is vital for a smooth and comfortable procedure. Here are some things you should do:
- Exfoliate the area to be waxed a day before your appointment. This helps to slough off dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs.
- Trim your hair if it’s too long. This makes the process less painful as long hair can get tangled during the waxing process.
- Avoid wearing tight clothes or underwear as pressure can cause the skin to swell up or chafe.
- Avoid using creams or oils as they can make the wax ineffective.
- Take a warm shower before the appointment to ease the area and reduce redness after the procedure.
2. Post-wax Care
After your waxing appointment, it’s essential to care for the waxed area to avoid discomfort and reduce the likelihood of ingrown hairs. Here are some things you should do:
- Avoid hot showers or baths for at least two hours after the appointment. This prevents chafing and inflammation of the already sensitive area.
- Avoid tight clothes or underwear as long as possible, to avoid exasperating skin irritation or chafing.
- Keep the waxed area clean and dry to prevent infection.
- Apply an aftercare waxing cream that contains aloe vera or tea tree oil to soothe irritated skin.
- Avoid swimming or sunbathing for at least two days after the appointment as these activities can irritate the skin.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Waxing?
1. Advantages
Long-Lasting Effect: Waxing removes hair from the roots, giving you a smoother and longer-lasting effect compared to other hair removal techniques like shaving or epilation.
Hair growth Reduction: Because waxing removes hair from the roots, repeated waxing sessions can cause your hair to grow thinner and less dense over time.
Improved Skin Health: Regularly waxing exfoliates the skin, which, in turn, improves skin health by removing dead skin cells.
Less Skin Irritation: Waxing removes hair from the root, resulting in less skin irritation compared to other hair removal techniques that can cause razor burns or nicks on the skin.
2. Disadvantages
Pain: Waxing is not entirely comfortable and may cause some pain for some people, particularly during your menstrual cycle.
Skin Sensitivity: Waxing may irritate the skin or cause redness, particularly in people with sensitive skin.
Risk of Infection: If not done correctly or in a sterile environment, waxing can lead to skin infections.
Most Common Questions and Answers about Waxing during Menstruation.
- Q: Can I shave during my period?
- A: Yes, you can shave, but it’s best to avoid doing so during your first two days because the area is more sensitive due to hormonal changes.
- Q: Can I get a Brazilian wax while on my period?
- A: You can, but you may want to consider rescheduling if you’re uncomfortable. If you decide to go for waxing, make sure to use a tampon to manage blood flow.
- Q: Is it normal to bleed after waxing?
- A: Waxing involves pulling hairs from the root, which could leave tiny open wounds that may bleed slightly. The amount of bleeding is minuscule, so there’s no need to worry.
- Q: Is it safe to wax during pregnancy?
- A: Yes, it’s safe to wax. However, it’s best to avoid using hot wax and to speak with your doctor first.
- Q: How long should hair be for waxing?
- A: The hair should be at least 1/4 inch long for waxing to be effective.
- Q: How often should I schedule my waxing appointments?
- A: It’s best to schedule your waxing appointments every four to six weeks to allow for proper hair growth.
In conclusion, getting a wax during your menstrual flow is possible, but it’s essential to plan your appointment, consider your comfort, and inform your waxer. The type of wax you choose can also determine your level of pain, so it’s best to research and make an informed decision. Lastly, to avoid infections, and irritation, you must follow proper pre and post-waxing care.
References:
- Gynecologic Health Care: With an Introduction to Prenatal and Postpartum Care.
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
- Harvard Health Publishing.