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How can I avoid breakouts after getting my eyebrows waxed?
Ralf Nau/Getty ImagesA study by Kelton Global revealed that around 18 million women stress more about facial hair (their own, not their partners') than they do about finances. This includes not just upper lip fuzz and chin hairs, but also the infamous unibrow—or those stray hairs around the eyebrows just waiting to be removed. [Source: Azam]
Many people, especially women (and some men), resort to plucking their eyebrows, while others opt for the increasingly popular method of threading. However, eyebrow waxing—where a hot wax strip is applied to the skin, left to dry, and then ripped off along with the hairs—remains one of the most reliable ways for quick and efficient hair removal. For some, it's the go-to method, while for others, it may lead to breakouts and skin irritation.
Chris Adigun, MD, assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Langone Medical Center in New York City, states, 'When you wax your eyebrows or any part of your body, the wax is spread over the entire skin surface.' This means that when the wax is pulled off, it takes with it the top layer of skin along with the hairs. Those with sensitive skin or using acne treatments are more likely to experience complications, she explains.
When getting your eyebrows waxed at a salon, make sure the aesthetician uses a fresh applicator for each session. Reusing applicators can spread germs and lead to bacterial infections that mimic breakouts. [Source: FoxNews.com] You can also use an at-home waxing kit, but it’s crucial to follow all instructions and keep everything sanitized before and during use. (Waxing can also cause burns if the wax is overheated, and can be harmful if applied to the delicate skin of the eyelids.)
Waxing results typically last for about two weeks or more, since it removes the entire hair follicle, unlike shaving that only takes off the surface hair. This is great news, says Adigun, because waxing too frequently can lead to skin irritation. If you notice breakouts even with occasional waxing, you might want to try plucking or threading instead.
