How to Prevent Dark Spots After Waxing 

Sometimes solving one beauty problem leads to another conundrum. In this case, we’re talking about dark spots that can sometimes be left behind after waxing. Sure, you’ve gotten rid of that unwanted hair, but now you’re stuck with unwanted hyperpigmentation. But before discussing solutions, it’s important to understand what causes dark spots.

Dark spots that occur after waxing are usually due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Waxing can be traumatic on the skin, especially when hair is coarse or ingrown, and the trauma can trigger melanocytes to release melanin into the skin in response to the inflammation. Coarse, thicker hair is more prone to hyperpigmentation. Those with darker skin tones have more melanin and are also more prone to hyperpigmentation. However, it’s important to remember that no one is immune to dark spots.

The good news is that there are simple solutions that can help you manage post-waxing hyperpigmentation. Ahead, discover seven ways to treat and prevent dark spots.

The Right Ways to Prevent Dark Spots

Exfoliate Before Your Appointment

This will help prevent dark spots from forming in the first place. Using lotions or toners with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to prevent ingrown hairs. After the waxing appointment, keep the area moisturized. Continue to apply the alpha hydroxy acid lotion 24 hours after the waxing procedure. 

Choose Cool Wax

Yes, cool or cold wax exists, and it’s the way to go if you have sensitive skin and know you’re prone to dark marks. If you like your waxing place and trust them, tell the waxer that you have sensitive skin so they won’t pull as hard, and they won’t rip off the waxing paper.

Be Gentle Around the Dark Spots

It’s important to be gentle to the skin. Don’t shave over the dark spots. If you have an ingrown hair, don’t try to remove it. Use a gentle moisturizer. Don’t use a washcloth in the shower; use your clean hands with a gentle soap or body wash and pat the area dry. Treat it super gently, like baby’s skin.

Look For Products With Brightening Ingredients

Using serums with vitamin C or alpha arbutin can also help to lighten the area. In some cases, hydroquinone may be appropriate, depending on the area being treated. With hydroquinone, start with the over-the-counter option, and if you’re still not seeing results, then you can ask your doctor for a stronger prescription version.

Be Vigilant About SPF

Wearing sunscreen is a must, but it’s important to be extra cautious when dealing with dark spots after waxing. Keeping the affected areas protected from sun exposure is key to preventing those spots from getting darker. Sunscreen is mandatory, but covering the skin is better. Reapply sunscreen every hour and after swimming or exercise.

Try an In-Office Procedure

If the spots don’t budge, it might be time to try an in-office treatment. Depending on the area, chemical peels can be very helpful in lifting unwanted pigment. Microneedling can also help to renew the skin, lightening pigmented areas, and in some cases, lasers can be helpful.

For lasers, opt for Fraxel. However, you have to be careful with dark marks because many lasers can potentially make a dark mark worse, so I’ll usually start with hydroquinone at varying strengths.

Opt for A Different Hair Removal Method

Waxing can be very effective for hair removal, but can cause excessive pulling and tugging on the skin, which over time denatures collagen and leads to sagging or loss of elasticity. Exploring other modes of hair removal, like lasers or threading, may be helpful in deciding which modality is best for you.

The Final Takeaway

It’s common for dark spots to arise after waxing. But thankfully, there are tons of ways to manage and reduce them at home, from exfoliating more regularly to being more vigilant about SPF application. However, when consistent home remedies aren’t working, it might be time to see a pro. If you’ve tried at-home treatments for four weeks and are still concerned or find the condition getting worse, seeing a board-certified dermatologist can be helpful to come up with a treatment plan that’s best for you.

But the best way to avoid dark spots is to have your waxing done by professional estheticians! At Botanica, our waxers have a combined 50+ years of experience with waxing–from brows, upper lip, Brazilian, underarms, and legs! Choose wisely where you get waxed and enjoy a serene, aesthetic ambiance while your hair removal needs are taken care of. Call Botanica at 727-441-1711 or book online today!