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Meet the Experts

How Do You Take Care of Your Bikini Area After Waxing?

Proper aftercare post-bikini wax is key to avoid discomfort, irritation and ingrown hairs.

woman in white bathing suit

Stocksy

Post-waxing, it’s generally advised to avoid anything that can cause friction or rubbing to the bikini area.

Icing the area can also help soothe redness or irritation.

Keep scrolling to see what our experts recommendplus, what to avoid.

A prime example of a workout to save for later?

“Your typical spin class,” she says.

“It’s very healing.”

Moisturize Your Skin Afterwards

According to Engelman, the best defense against ingrown hairs is soft skin.

“Moisturized skin will be more pliable and hair will grow out easily,” she explains.

Apply Hydrocortisone Cream

Another way to decrease post-wax inflammation is with hydrocortisone cream.

“The 1% concentration is a go-to for post-waxing,” Nazarian says.

“Friction along a freshly waxed (or shaven) area is prone to irritation.

Rubbing and pressure from repetitive motions can increase the chances of ingrown hairs and inflammation.”

Wait a couple hours after your bikini wax to shower.

Avoid soaking the area with a bath or jumping in the pool for 48 hours.

Generally, it takes 48 hours for your bikini area to heal after a wax.

If you’re dealing with irritation or redness, it may take longer.

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Public Health Ontario.At a glance: personal services and infection risks.

Cleveland Clinic.Pigmentation: abnormal pigmentation.

Updated March 29, 2016.

Khanna N, Chandramohan K, Khaitan BK, Singh MK.Post waxing folliculitis: a clinicopathological evaluation.Int J Dermatol.

2014;53(7):849-854. doi:10.1111/ijd.12056

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Hair removal: how to wax.