How to Get Rid of Bumps After Waxing

Co-authored by Melissa Jannes

Last Updated: June 24, 2024 References

Getting rid of the small, red bumps that appear after waxing can be quick and painless. You can eliminate these post-wax bumps through exfoliation and keeping the freshly waxed area clean. You can also prevent the bumps from showing up with a cold compress post-wax and by making sure you don't apply lotion or oil to freshly waxed skin.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Eliminating Post-Wax Bumps

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It’s important that you keep the waxed area clean, especially during the first few days following a wax. Sweat and dirt can get trapped on freshly waxed skin, contributing to the development of those pesky bumps. Try showering at least once a day and making sure you clean the waxed area thoroughly during your shower.^{[1]
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Exfoliate a few times a week to treat ingrown hairs. Dead skin cells can build up after you get a wax, clogging the hair follicle and causing ingrown hairs. Daily exfoliation will prevent razor bumps because the hair will never get a chance to regrow towards the skin and become trapped.
- You can use: chemical exfoliation (coffee scrub, liquids, etc) or physical exfoliation (gloves, loofah, cloth, or an ingrown hair prevention brush). If you have sensitive skin, then go with the soft and firm bristles. Try swapping out your regular washcloth for an exfoliating cloth. Then gently rub the wet exfoliating cloth over the waxed area with your favorite soap or body wash.
- You can buy an exfoliating cloth at your local drug store or online.
- You can also try a topical exfoliating product, like a post-wax cream that contains salicylic acid. Be sure to apply the products to clean skin and carefully follow the directions on the package.
- Exfoliating can help prevent and treat bumps.
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3
Use a warm compress and hydrogen peroxide for painful ingrown hairs. If you have post-wax bumps that are painful to the touch and/or feel pressurized under the skin’s surface, you might have infected ingrown hairs. If this is the case, take a warm compress and apply it to the affected area. Leave the compress on for 1-2 minutes, and then swipe the area with a cotton ball soaked in hydrogen peroxide.^{[2]
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- You can use a warm compress several times to help alleviate the bumps.
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Use a hydrocortisone cream. Calming inflammation after a wax can help eliminate post-wax bumps. Dab a small amount of one-percent hydrocortisone cream on the waxed area after your procedure. For example, a pea-sized amount works well after a brow wax. Use more for a larger area.
- Apply a thin, even layer across the skin.
If you frequently get bumps after waxing, you might want to make an appointment with your dermatologist. They can determine what is causing the bumps, such as a proclivity to ingrown hairs, and whether waxing is the best way to remove unwanted hair. For example, they may suggest a depilatory or laser treatments instead of waxing.^{[3]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Preventing Bumps After a Wax

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1
Use a gentle cleanser after waxing. After you are finished waxing an area, gently wash it with a mild cleanser. Don’t use soap or scrubs, as both can irritate the freshly waxed skin. For example, after you wax your eyebrows, wash your face with an everyday, gentle facial cleanser.^{[4]
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- If you waxed your body, use a gentle cleanser like castile soap.
You can soothe freshly waxed skin with a gentle application of witch hazel. Dip a cotton ball in with hazel. Then, smooth it across the area that was waxed. You can purchase witch hazel at your local drug store or online.^{[5]
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Lotions, oils, and other types of moisturizers can clog the pores of freshly waxed skin. Avoid applying these products right after a wax. If you find your skin needs extra moisture, try aloe vera gel instead.^{[6]
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Try a cold compress after waxing. One way to cut down on the bumps some people get after waxing is by icing. Apply ice to the waxed area to help reduce inflammation. Make sure the ice pack or bag containing ice is clean so that you do not inadvertently introduce bacteria and dirt to your waxed skin.^{[7]
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- You can use a cold compress as often as you like.
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Wear loose clothing. Tight clothes can trap dirt and sweat, contributing to the appearance of post-wax bumps. Try wearing loose, breathable clothing after a wax. This will allow your skin to breathe and may help prevent the appearance or exacerbation of unsightly bumps.^{[8]
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- For example, you should avoid wearing tights after a bikini wax. Instead, opt for loose fitting pants or a skirt.

Expert Q&A

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Question

How do you get rid of folliculitis after waxing?

Melissa Jannes
Skincare Specialist
Melissa Jannes is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia, a single practitioner space providing quality services with individualized attention. Melissa is also a National Educator for Universal Companies. She received her esthetics degree at The Beauty School of Middletown in 2008 and is licensed in both New York and Pennsylvania. Melissa won the "Best of Beauty" award from Allure magazine in 2012 for the quality of her bikini waxing.

Melissa Jannes

Skincare Specialist

Expert Answer

If you have an ingrown hair, keep the area clean and dry, exfoliate 2-3 times a week, and use a serum or cream made for ingrown hairs.

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Question

How do you treat hair bumps?

Melissa Jannes
Skincare Specialist
Melissa Jannes is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia, a single practitioner space providing quality services with individualized attention. Melissa is also a National Educator for Universal Companies. She received her esthetics degree at The Beauty School of Middletown in 2008 and is licensed in both New York and Pennsylvania. Melissa won the "Best of Beauty" award from Allure magazine in 2012 for the quality of her bikini waxing.

Melissa Jannes

Skincare Specialist

Expert Answer

Don't pick at an ingrown hair. Sometimes people get bumps after waxing due to a histamine reaction. However, they're usually ingrown hairs or folliculitis, and it's important not to touch or pick at them. Picking at the area can cause irritation and can spread infection. It can also lead to scarring.

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Question

I got it waxed a week ago and I have bumps all over my back. I'm about to get married, how can I cure it quickly?

Community Answer

What worked for me is applying "Fair n Lovely" (fairness cream) like paste all over the affected area. Don't rub it into the skin, and let it dry. Repeat 2-3 times per day and the bumps should disappear. Applying coconut oil may also help.

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