So, you have some unsightly hair that you wish to remove. One way to do it is to shave the hair away with a use of a razor, but this type of fix will only last for a very short period of time. The hairs will have already begun to regrow and will so reappear in full force. Living in a place like Denver, you want to take into account which option is better given the weather patterns.
The best means of dealing with these unwanted hairs is to wax them away. By pulling them out by the roots, you can make sure that it will take weeks, not days, to regrow and require the process to be repeated. Here we will discuss the different types of waxing, their benefits, and how to select which kind is the best for your body sculpting needs.
What is Hot Wax?
Hot wax, in truth, is not actually meant to be scalding hot. The wax is placed inside of a warmer than then causes the substance to change into a more liquid state and become applicable for people to use. The softened material is then spread across the area of the skin where the hair is and used to remove it.
For hot wax, there are two different types that can be used. There is a soft wax, which usually comes in a can form or as a roll-on that becomes even softer once warmed up. Typically, a cloth strip is used to pull the adhesive and remove the hairs.
The other type of hot wax used is called hard wax. These come in pellet form or as beads that are equally easy to use and have a firmer texture. This makes them easier to grip onto muslin strips for hair removal.
Either form you use, the temperature is the biggest thing to consider. The consistency of the wax should be like maple syrup. To cool it down, use the spreader you will be using to apply the wax to swirl it around and release some of the contained heat. If the wax is too cool, it will not grip the hairs and remove them. Too hot, and you run the risk of scalding yourself and causing burns.
What is Cold Wax?
Opposite of its counterpart, cold wax has already been placed upon strips of either cloth or wax paper and has been precut into different sizes and shapes. This type of waxing does not require a warmer, as does hot wax. Instead, rub the strip with your palm and use your natural body heat, as well as that caused by friction, to warm it up so that wax can adhere.
Using cold wax has some benefits that you can’t get with warm wax. There is no risk of burns as the temperature will never exceed a level similar to the natural body temperature. This is also the most user-friendly and costs less than what it would take for a salon worker to do it.
Which is Best to Use
For coarse hair, such as under your arm or in your pubic region, hot wax is the best to use. The texture of the wax will adhere to shorter hairs better. Consider also using it on larger areas, like the legs and back.
Cold wax (https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/cold-waxing), however, is better used for finer hairs, such as the face. It doesn’t grasp as well, but it is able to be sculpted into shapes by precutting the strips before application. This is also best for people who are wanting to wax but do not have to pay salon prices.
Risks for Both
Waxing, whether hot or cold, come with their own risks. Similarly, they can cause extreme irritation, red bumps, or grazed skin on those who are sensitive. They should not be used if you have had a chemical peel. People with varicose veins are not to undergo waxing as their blood vessels are too sensitive, and it can cause them to expand and become damaged.
Which Should I Use?
Ultimately, the decision must come down to the individual and what their needs are. Judging where the hair is located that you want to remove, what kind of skin you have, and what kind of reaction you will help determine whether to use cold or hot wax. If you have never waxed before, go to see a salon specialist learn what it is you need to know before doing it at home.