Is It Safe To Wax At Home?

Warm weather means choosing shorts over jeans, skirts instead of leggings, and a higher chance that you're going to be spending your day somewhere sunny. For some people, warmer weather – and the wardrobe changes – also means more hair removal. You can go to a salon and get it taken care of, of course. But that can sometimes hit the bank account hard, especially if you're someone who likes to go as smooth as possible.

That's where at-home waxing kits come in. Home waxing cuts down on hair removal costs, and the results often last longer than a good shave. But just because you can buy a home kit on Amazon doesn't mean that you should. Experts tend to agree, you're better off going to a professional. 

Speaking to Allure in 2020, board-certified dermatologist, Shari Marchbein, did not mince words. "I would absolutely not recommend waxing at home," she states. Marchbein works in New York City and has seen her fair share of skin issues. While home skincare may be taking off, waxing can present certain risks that salon technicians are better equipped to handle.

Sandra Johnson, M.D., a dermatologist in Fort Smith, Arkansas, spoke with HuffPost about the risks of waxing such as infection, irritation, or burns. Bikini wax treatments in particular, whether at home or in a salon, can come with these risks. However, Dr. Johnson emphasizes that professionals know how to keep wax at the right temperature which reduces the chance of burns compared to home waxing kits.

Dr. Johnson also raised the concern of ingrown hairs. She explained that when wax rips hair out by the root, a "baby hair" grows in its place. Because this hair is weaker, it may not be able to break the surface of the skin, causing an ingrown hair. Unsanitary waxing conditions can introduce bacteria to the area, leading to a hair that is not only ingrown, but infected.

If you've been waxing for a while and haven't had any issues, then you probably know what you're doing. But if you're eyeing a home kit for the first time, you might be better off keeping your appointment at the salon. Not only can they reach spots you can't, but you have a better chance of being able to enjoy the results without healing from a burn or rash first.