Waxing Side Effect #2 - Skin Lifting

SKIN LIFTING is perhaps one of the scariest side effects. It is often confused with skin burning when the wax is too hot, but it's very different. 

Skin Lifting is when a layer of dead cells has been removed to reveal the live cells underneath. The skin may appear shiny or dewy and the client may feel a stinging or tingling sensation. Often times lifting will occur without leaving any evidence. So, you may or not know if it has happened at all. 

If skin is not held taut upon removal of the wax, it may be lifted. If the skin is dry and/or dehydrated due to environment, poor skin care habits or certain medications, it also increases the risk of the skin lifting. That is why it is always good practice to have the client fill out a healthy history prior to performing any waxing services.  

If you think the skin has lifted, ask the client if they feel any stinging or tingling in the area. If they do, let them know that the skin may have lifted and what they can expect.  Inform them that the area will scab over in the next few days that it should be healed within a week or so. As difficult as it is to give the client this news, it's better to tell them, before they see if for themselves.   

Pro tip - Holding the skin taut and doing a thorough skin analysis will help prevent lifting. When lifting has occurred instruct the client to keep the skin hydrated to minimize discomfort and speed healing. Wonder Whip is a great product as it's not greasy and penetrates to hydrate from within.  

 Join me next week for the dreaded side effect, Skin Tearing.