Waxing at Home: What to Expect and How to Prepare
How a mobile waxing appointment works in the UK, how to prepare your skin, what the process feels like and aftercare tips for comfortable results.
Having waxing done at home removes the awkward bit of travelling afterwards with sensitive skin, and many people find it more relaxed. A little preparation makes the treatment quicker, more comfortable and gives smoother results.
Before the appointment
Hair length
For most wax types, hair needs to be long enough for the wax to grip, often about the length of a grain of rice, or around a quarter of an inch. Too short and it will not remove properly, while too long can be more uncomfortable. Your therapist can advise on the right length for the area.
Skin care
In the days before:
- Gently exfoliate the area, then stop the day before
- Avoid sunbathing or sunbeds, as skin may be more sensitive
- Do not apply heavy creams or oils on the day
- Skip very hot baths or showers just beforehand
Health and sensitivities
Tell your therapist if you:
- Use certain topical or oral medications that affect skin sensitivity
- Have broken, sunburnt or irritated skin
- Have conditions such as diabetes, circulation problems or skin disorders
- Are pregnant or have recently had surgery
Waxing may not be suitable in some situations, and a therapist may advise you to check with a GP first. They may also recommend a patch test for the wax. See skin sensitivity and allergies before beauty treatments.
What happens during the treatment
- Consultation. The therapist checks your skin and agrees what will be done.
- Cleansing. The area is cleaned and sometimes lightly dusted with powder.
- Application. Warm wax is applied in the direction of hair growth.
- Removal. Wax is removed quickly against the direction of growth.
- Soothing. The skin is cleansed and a calming product may be applied.
Wax types
Soft wax is applied with strips and often used on larger areas, while hard wax grips the hair and is removed without strips, often for sensitive areas. Your therapist will choose what suits the area and your skin.
How it feels
Sensations vary from person to person and by area. Many people describe a quick sharp sting that settles. Breathing out as the wax is removed can help. If it is too uncomfortable, speak up.
Setting up at home
The therapist will usually bring a portable couch or work on a bed, a wax heater and supplies. You will need:
- A quiet, private room
- A clean surface and towels
- A power socket
- Good lighting
See how to prepare your home for more.
Aftercare
For the first 24 hours or so, therapists typically advise:
- Avoiding hot baths, saunas, steam and heavy exercise
- Avoiding sunbeds, sunbathing and swimming pools
- Wearing loose, breathable clothing
- Not applying perfumed or heavily scented products
- Not touching or scratching the area
After a day or two, gentle exfoliation can help reduce ingrown hairs. If redness, swelling, or pain persists, or you notice signs of infection, speak to a pharmacist or GP.
How often
Hair growth cycles differ, so intervals vary. Many people return around every four to six weeks, with regular waxing sometimes making regrowth finer. Your therapist can suggest a schedule based on your hair.
Cost
Waxing costs vary by area and treatment, and you can find indicative ranges in our guide to facial and waxing prices.
Booking on Compito
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A step-by-step guide to the appointment
- Consultation: the therapist asks about your skin, medication, previous reactions and which areas you want treated.
- Preparation: the skin is cleaned and, if needed, hair is trimmed to a suitable length.
- Waxing: wax is applied and removed in sections, with pauses if you need them.
- Soothing: a lotion or oil may be applied to calm the skin.
- Aftercare advice: the therapist explains what to avoid for the next day or two.
Preparing at home
- Let hair grow to around the length your therapist recommends, often about a few millimetres to a centimetre, but check with them.
- Gently exfoliate a day or two beforehand, if your skin tolerates it.
- Avoid sunbathing, sunbeds and very hot baths before the appointment.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Avoid applying oils or heavy creams on the day.
Easing discomfort
Waxing can sting, but it is brief. Breathing slowly, relaxing your shoulders and telling the therapist if you need a moment all help. Some people find that having it done when they are not hormonally sensitive is more comfortable, though experience varies.
When waxing may not be suitable
Check with your GP or pharmacist, and tell your therapist, if you have very fragile or sunburnt skin, a rash, open cuts, recent surgery, certain skin conditions or use medicines that thin or sensitise the skin. A responsible therapist may decline the treatment.
Aftercare
- Avoid heat, saunas, tight clothing and strong products for a day or two.
- Keep the area clean and do not scratch.
- Be careful with sun exposure.
See skin sensitivity and allergies before beauty treatments for more.
Frequently asked questions
Does waxing hurt more at home?
Not especially. Pain depends on the area, your pain tolerance and the technique, rather than the location. A calm environment can make it easier.
Can I shave between waxes?
Generally therapists advise against it, as shaving cuts the hair at the surface and means the hair will be too short for the next wax. Ask your therapist for guidance.
Is waxing safe for sensitive skin?
It can be, with the right wax and technique, but some people with sensitive skin or certain conditions may need to avoid it. A consultation and, where appropriate, a patch test are sensible first steps.