Here’s a salon professional’s guide to using hot wax. Here, we’ll share everything you need to know about hot wax, including its benefits, which type of waxing is best, and how to give the perfect hot wax treatment. Read on to learn more.
1. What is hot wax?
Hot wax is a hair removal wax that is usually heated to around 55-65 degrees. Hot wax treatment involves applying warm wax to the client’s skin, where it adheres to the client’s hair rather than the skin. Hot wax is best used on smaller areas as it can be quite time-consuming to apply. Hot wax is known for its excellent results because it adheres better to the hair follicles on the skin.
Benefits of hot wax:
- Less likely to cause irritation and redness.
- There is no sticky residue left on the skin after using this product.
- Suitable for all skin and hair types.
- Removes hair as short as 1 mm.
- Leaves no sticky residue on the skin.
2. What is the difference between hot wax and dewaxing?
The main difference between hot wax and strip wax is that strip wax involves the use of disposable strips whose purpose is to remove the hair after it has been pulled off. A hot wax treatment, on the other hand, is applied to selected areas, allowed to harden, and removed after setting. Strip wax is a flowable wax that is applied in a thin layer using a spatula; hair is then removed by pressing the wax strip against the wax and quickly peeling it off. Apply the hot wax thickly, in layers with a spatula. Once the wax has hardened, peel the wax off in one piece.
Strip wax is typically used on larger areas such as legs, arms, and back. This is a great option for less sensitive areas as it creates a stronger grip that may cause tearing when removing hair. Waxing is also useful because you can cover a large area quickly, making it a time-saving option.
Hot wax is great for waxing sensitive areas and areas with shorter hair, which is why it’s often the wax of choice for underarm and bikini waxing. When hot wax heats up, it opens the pores and hair follicles for better hair removal, not to mention reducing the risk of ingrown hairs.
3. How to use hot wax?
First, fill the empty jar with hot wax, then place the full jar into the heater. If the beads are completely melted, the hot wax has the right consistency. With a melting point as low as 37 degrees, you can apply the product directly from the heater to your skin.
*Important: Do not place wax beads directly into the heater. This may damage the interior of the heater. Hot wax should always be placed in a separate jar.
1) Step 1 – Purifying Blue Lotion
Astringent, cleansing, refreshing lotion suitable for use before and after waxing. The main ingredients are cornflower water and antibacterial, restorative dragon’s blood extract. Apply 1-2 pumps of blue lotion to the cloth. Clean the area of the body to be treated against the direction of hair growth so that the hair stands on end.
2) Step 2-Jasmine Oil Before and After
Soothing, hydrating oil. The main ingredients are mineral oil, cottonseed oil, and jasmine essence. Apply before treatment to protect the skin barrier.
Use just a drop of jasmine oil! Note: Jasmine oil is an important part of the treatment. You can make waxing more comfortable and painless for your clients by using it. However, if too much oil is used, the wax will then not adhere to the skin properly. Massage gently into the skin.
3) Step 3 – Apply hot wax
Use a wooden spatula to remove the amount of wax needed for the area from the container.
Place the wax where you want to start applying it and apply evenly and firmly in the direction of hair growth. For large areas, the long side of the spatula should be perpendicular to the skin. For uneven surfaces, use the rounded end of a spatula to apply wax. The wax should be slightly thicker The edges of the application after it has been applied. Taking this step will make removing it easier.
4) Step 4 – Remove Hot Wax
Let the wax dry for a few seconds. Touch the surface to see if the wax has hardened.
Grasp the slightly thicker edge of the wax and pull it off in 1 or 2 steps against the direction of hair growth, depending on the size of the treatment area. Pull the wax down horizontally as close to the surface of the skin as possible, stretching the surrounding skin area in the process. Do not pull upward! Apply gentle pressure with your hands to soothe the skin immediately after waxing.
- Wax should be applied in the opposite direction of hair growth and allowed to dry
- Follow the direction of hair growth, moving in small steps from side to side to stretch the skin and remove the wax
5) Step 5 – Aftercare
If you need to remove wax residue, use a drop of jasmine oil. Apply 1-2 pumps of blue lotion to cloth. Use it to clean the hair-removing areas of the body.
6) Step 6 – Refreshing Gel
Soothes and refreshes skin after treatment. The refreshing gel texture is very runny and lightweight. Extracts of honey, vine leaves, and menthol are the active ingredients. If desired, take a small amount of refreshing gel and mix it with moisturizing lotion. Gently massage the skin in an upward motion. It refreshes and soothes the skin.
7) How to use hot wax with 4 simple tips
The hot wax procedure is not difficult, it just requires practice and training. Here are the top tips on how to use hot wax safely and effectively.
#1. Step 1:
Clean the area to be waxed and apply prep oil – this oil is essential and allows the wax to adhere to the hair rather than the skin, making the client more comfortable.
#2. Step 2:
You should check the wax’s temperature before you apply it to a client. Once you are sure it is the right temperature, apply the wax to a small square. Use this to prevent hair growth the first time you apply it and then use it to prevent hair growth.
#3. Step 3:
Creates a thick edge on the wax ready for removal. You can apply several patches at a time, but make sure there is a gap between each patch so they are not removed all at once. If doing the bikini area, you can apply one patch at a time on each side.
#4. Step 4:
To remove a patch, place your fingertips under the edge of the patch, flick the end upward, and remove the patch in the opposite direction of hair growth. After all hair has been removed, use a post-wax preparation to soothe the area. The most uncomfortable part of hot waxing (if you claim there is one) is “popping” the edges of the wax to remove the patch, but as a process, it’s not painful at all and is kinder and friendlier. It is gentler on skin in delicate areas, making it the perfect choice for client comfort.
important hint
Hygiene is crucial and wearing gloves is crucial during an intimate waxing session as blood and other body fluids may be exchanged. It’s also important not to dip the spatula twice. You can use the drizzle method or use a new spatula each time.
4. Recommendations for useful hot wax
Here are some top-selling hot wax product recommendations.
1) Lotus hot film wax
Lotus Hot Film Wax is a flexible and pliable wax that can be easily removed in just one quick action. This versatile wax can be used on all areas of the body, including lip lines, and is especially effective on stubborn hair under the arms and around the bikini line.
Main features:
- Not tested on animals.
- Vegan friendly.
- Available in 500 g blocks.
2) Monuwax Hot Wax Infused with Karite and Argan Oil
Monuwax Hot Wax Infused with Karite and Argan Oil is a fast-drying, hypoallergenic wax infused with plum botanicals to support sensitive skin and is ideal for clients with sensitive skin.
Main features:
- Peel-off, no removal strip required, ideal for removing tougher hair.
- The texture is pliable.
5. Hot wax FAQs
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about the use of hot wax.
1) Will hot wax burn the client’s skin?
It is recommended that the wax be gently heated to a temperature of 105.8°F or 41°C or higher. Heat is crucial not only for adhesion to the skin but also for preventing bacterial growth. Once in contact with the skin, the wax cools quickly. We always recommend that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a hot wax warmer to ensure you are heating the wax in the best possible way.
2) How to apply hot wax?
Use a spatula to remove the amount of wax needed for the area from the heater. Place the wax where you want to start applying it and apply evenly and firmly in the direction of hair growth. For large areas, the long side of the spatula should be perpendicular to the skin. For uneven areas, use the rounded end of a spatula to apply wax. The wax should be slightly thicker around the edges after application. This makes removal easier.
3) How long does hot wax stay on the skin and how is it removed?
Let the wax dry for a few seconds. Touch the surface to see if the wax has hardened. If it sticks in places, wait a little longer. Grasp the wax at the slightly thicker edge and pull it off in 1 or 2 steps against the direction of hair growth, depending on the area being treated. Pull the wax as close to the surface of the skin as possible while stretching the surrounding skin area. Do not pull upward! Apply gentle pressure with your hands to calm the skin immediately after waxing.
4) How often can I wax my skin?
If you are unable to completely remove hair from certain areas during the first session, you can have a second hair removal session in that area without hesitation. You can use Purifying Blue Lotion to cleanse specific areas again and moisturize the skin with Jasmine Oil before and after epilation to protect the skin barrier before waxing. If possible, you should remove all hair in the second pass.
6. Conclusion
This guide explores what hot wax is, along with steps to use, and answers to frequently asked questions. I believe that after reading this article, you will have a better understanding of hot wax. Please contact Auperwel if you have any further questions.