When You Should Not Wax the Skin

As a licensed skincare specialist, my

priority is your safety and skin health. Before any waxing treatment—especially your first—it’s important to understand when waxing should be postponed.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ and an incredible communicator. When something is off, it will show visible signs such as redness, rash-like bumps (often folliculitis), bruising, welts, hives, itching, raised areas, or ulcerative sores. These are your body’s warning signals that something deeper may be happening.

If you notice developing or worsening skin changes over several hours, don’t ignore them. Seek medical advice as soon as possible, and if symptoms progress quickly, go to an urgent care or emergency room so a professional can diagnose and treat the cause. Acting early protects both your skin and your overall health.

When the skin barrier is compromised—by infection, irritation, or inflammation—waxing can make the condition worse. Because waxing temporarily activates your immune response, existing lesions or irritation can spread or intensify.

Always listen to your body. Healthy, intact skin and a balanced immune system are essential for a safe waxing experience. If you’re feeling unwell, fighting off an illness, or noticing skin irritation, it’s best to reschedule.

Remember, during waxing, hair is removed from deep within the follicle, which connects to a tiny blood supply beneath the surface. It takes about three days for your skin to fully recover at the microscopic level. Allowing that time for healing helps ensure the best results and prevents complications.

It’s always better to reschedule or pay a small cancellation fee than to risk your health. Your body will thank you for the care you show it—and your skin will reward you with smoother, healthier results when it’s ready.

<br> — Mia Drysdale, Licensed Esthetician & Cerologist Simply Mia’s Waxing Studio – West Seattle