Breaking the Myth: Exercising After Waxing – What You Need to Know!

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Have you recently gotten a wax and are now wondering if it’s safe to hit the gym or go for a run? You’re not alone. Many people have questioned whether exercising after waxing is a good idea. Well, wonder no more! In this article, we will delve into the world of post-waxing workouts and provide you with all the information you need to know about exercising after waxing. So, put on your workout gear and let’s get started!

Effects of Waxing on the Skin

Waxing is a popular hair removal method that involves applying hot wax onto the skin and then removing it along with the unwanted hair. While waxing can leave your skin feeling smooth and hair-free, it can also have some effects on the skin. One of the most common concerns when it comes to waxing is how it affects your skin if you exercise after getting waxed.

One of the immediate effects of waxing on the skin is redness and irritation. This is because waxing involves pulling out hair from its roots, which can cause minor injuries to the delicate skin. The heat from the hot wax can also leave your skin feeling sensitive. This initial irritation usually subsides within a few hours or a day but may last longer for those with sensitive skin.

Waxing can also lead to ingrown hairs, particularly for those with curly or coarse hair. Ingrown hairs occur when dead skin cells clog up the hair follicle, forcing the hair to grow inwards instead of outwards. This can cause bumps and redness on the skin. However, proper exfoliation techniques can help prevent this issue.

Additionally, if you exercise after waxing, you may experience sweatier and oilier skin than usual. This is because waxing removes not only unwanted hair but also a layer of dead skin cells and natural oils from your skin’s surface. As a result, your body may produce more oil and sweat to compensate for this loss. It is crucial to cleanse your skin thoroughly after exercising to remove any excess oil or dirt that may clog up pores.

The Best Time to Exercise After Waxing

It is generally recommended to avoid exercising immediately after getting waxed as this can cause further irritation and discomfort to the already sensitive skin. The ideal time gap between a waxing session and exercising varies from person to person, but typically you should wait at least 24 hours before engaging in any intense physical activity.

This is because waxing not only removes hair but also a layer of dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling raw and exposed. Exercising while your skin is still healing can increase the risk of infection and irritation. It is best to allow for some time for your skin to recover before subjecting it to sweat and friction from exercising.

Tips for Exercising After Waxing

To ensure that you can still stick to your active lifestyle despite getting waxed, here are some tips that can help minimize any adverse effects on your skin:

1. Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing: Tight clothing can rub against and irritate the freshly waxed skin. Opt for looser, breathable fabrics during the first 24-48 hours after waxing.

2. Wear sunscreen: If you plan on exercising outdoors, make sure to apply sunscreen before heading out. The hot sun and sweat can further irritate your skin if it is not adequately protected.

3. Exfoliate gently: As mentioned earlier, exfoliation is essential in preventing ingrown hairs after waxing. However, make sure to exfoliate gently and avoid being too harsh on the already sensitive skin.

4. Use a cold compress: If you experience redness, inflammation, or discomfort after exercising post-waxing, applying a cold compress can help soothe the affected area.

5. Try a numbing cream: If you have a low pain tolerance, using a topical numbing cream before waxing can help reduce discomfort during and after the procedure.

It is vital to listen to your body’s signals when choosing when to exercise after getting waxed. If you experience excessive discomfort or irritation while working out post-waxing, it may be best to take a break or postpone your workout until your skin has fully healed.

In conclusion, exercising after waxing may have some effects on your skin, such as redness, irritation, and ingrown hairs. However, by following proper post-waxing care and waiting at least 24 hours before exercising, you can minimize these effects and continue with your active lifestyle without any issues. Just remember to listen to your body and adjust your routine accordingly to avoid further irritation or discomfort.

The Dos and Don’ts of Exercising After Waxing

When it comes to hair removal, many people turn to waxing for longer-lasting results. However, waxing can leave your skin feeling sensitive and vulnerable, making you wonder if exercising is safe after a session. Is it okay to hit the gym or should you take a break? In this article, we will explore the dos and don’ts of exercising after waxing so you can make an informed decision.

The Dos

1. Give It Time: One of the most important things to remember after waxing is to give your skin some time to recover. Exercising too soon can cause friction and irritation, leading to discomfort and even ingrown hairs. It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before hitting the gym after a waxing session.

2. Wear Comfortable Clothing: When you do decide to exercise after waxing, be mindful of the clothing you wear. Tight or restrictive clothing can cause friction on freshly-waxed skin, leading to irritation and even breakouts. Opt for loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo.

3. Keep Your Skin Clean: Be sure to cleanse your skin before and after exercising when you have recently waxed. Sweat can clog pores and lead to breakouts, so it’s essential to keep your skin clean and free from bacteria. Use a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.

4. Protect Your Skin from the Sun: If you’re planning on exercising outdoors, be sure to protect your newly-waxed skin from the sun’s harmful rays. When waxing removes hair, it also removes a layer of protection that your skin has against UV damage. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before heading outside.

5. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, especially after waxing. When you sweat, your body loses water and electrolytes, which can lead to dehydration and make your skin more prone to irritation. Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout.

The Don’ts

1. Avoid Excessive Perspiration: While it’s important to stay hydrated during and after a workout, it’s also essential to avoid excessive perspiration if possible. Sweat can irritate freshly-waxed skin and cause redness or even bumps. If you tend to sweat a lot during exercise, consider waiting a little longer before hitting the gym.

2. Skip the Hot Tub: As tempting as it may be to relax in the hot tub after a workout, it’s best to avoid it for at least 24 hours after waxing. The combination of heat and moisture can cause bacteria buildup on your skin, leading to breakouts or rashes.

3. Don’t Exfoliate Immediately: It’s common knowledge that exfoliating is a must when it comes to maintaining smooth, hair-free skin. However, it’s best to hold off on exfoliating for at least 48 hours after waxing. Your skin needs time to heal and any harsh exfoliation can lead to irritation or even ingrown hairs.

4. Limit Your Workout Intensity: It’s essential to listen to your body when deciding on how intense your workout should be after waxing. You may want to consider avoiding high-intensity exercises that cause excessive sweating or chafing until your skin has fully recovered.

5. Don’t Touch or Pick at Your Skin: After a waxing session, you may have an urge to touch or pick at the area where hair has been removed – but resist the temptation! Picking at your skin can introduce bacteria and irritate your already sensitive skin.

Debunking Common Myths About Exercising After Waxing

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding waxing and exercising. Let’s take a look at some of the most common myths and debunk them once and for all.

Myth #1: You Should Avoid Exercising After Waxing Completely

This is a common misconception that leads people to believe that exercising after waxing is bad for your skin. In reality, waiting 24 hours before exercising is enough time for your skin to recover. Gentle exercises like yoga or low-intensity cardio are also okay to do right after waxing.

Myth #2: You Need to Wait Longer Than 24 Hours Before Working Out

Waiting too long before hitting the gym is unnecessary and can even lead to ingrown hairs. As mentioned earlier, waiting 24 hours before working out should give your skin enough time to recover.

Myth #3: You Can’t Work Out at All on the Day of Your Waxing Session

This myth may hold some truth for those with extremely sensitive skin, but for most people, working out on the same day as your waxing session should not be an issue. However, it’s always

1. Can I exercise after waxing?
Yes, it is generally safe to exercise after waxing. However, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before engaging in intense physical activity to avoid irritation and potential infection in the waxed area.

2. Will exercising right after waxing cause damage or harm?
Exercising immediately after waxing may cause discomfort and irritation, but it will not cause any permanent damage or harm. It is best to wait a day before exercising to allow the skin to calm down and heal properly.

3. Are there any precautions I should take while exercising post-waxing?
If you decide to exercise within the first 24 hours after waxing, make sure to avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or friction on the waxed area. It is also crucial to wear loose-fitting clothing that will not rub against the sensitive skin.

4. Is it okay to sweat after getting a Brazilian wax?
Sweat can irritate freshly waxed skin, so it’s best to avoid too much sweating within the first 24 hours post-waxing. If you need to exercise or engage in activities that cause sweating, make sure to take a shower afterward and gently pat the area dry.

5. Can I apply any products on my skin after an intense workout session post-wax?
It is not recommended to apply any products on your skin immediately after an intense workout session post-waxing as this can clog pores and increase the risk of infection. It’s best to stick with gentle water-based moisturizers for at least 24 hours after waxing.

6. Should I avoid certain types of exercises if I’ve recently got a bikini or underarm wax?
Yes, it would be best if you avoided any activities that put pressure on the recently treated waxed area, such as yoga poses that involve arm balancing or rigorous ab exercises. These movements can cause irritation and discomfort in the waxed area. It is best to stick with low-intensity exercises until the skin has healed properly.

In conclusion, the answer to the question “can I exercise after waxing?” is both yes and no. Yes, you can exercise after waxing as long as you take certain precautions and follow proper aftercare measures. These include taking a shower right after waxing, avoiding tight clothing or activities that cause friction on the waxed area, and keeping the skin clean and moisturized. However, there are also instances where it is not advisable to exercise after waxing, such as if you experience excessive redness, irritation or open wounds on the waxed area.

Overall, it is important to listen to your body and pay attention to any discomfort or changes in the waxed area before engaging in physical activities post-waxing. Remember that everyone’s skin and pain tolerance is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. By taking necessary precautions and following proper aftercare, you can still enjoy your regular workout routine even after waxing.

Additionally, it is crucial to choose a reputable and experienced waxing professional who uses high-quality products and techniques to minimize potential side effects. Communicate your concerns with them beforehand so they can adjust their approach accordingly.

Finally, remember that exercising after waxing may not be ideal for everyone or every type of exercise. It

Author Profile

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Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.