Here’s how to perfect a safe DIY bikini wax (so you don’t end up ruining your holiday)
Research has shown that almost half of UK women would let a non-professional wax them... we suggest how you can do it safely yourself
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A MASSIVE 40% of women would let a non-professional wax down there, according the insurer Hiscox.
But there are dangers involved when a wax isn't done properly - like skin grazing and ingrown hairs.
And that's not all.
If the waxing isn't done hygienically infections, scarring and burns can be caused.
And not doing it right can even up your chances of catching an STI.
But with so many at-home waxing options available, it's perfectly achievable to get a salon-standard bikini line wax without having to leave the house.
Always buy the right wax
For a DIY job, you'll want to stick to hard or stripless wax.
These types of wax are especially formulated for delicate areas like the bikini line, and they'll only adhere to the hair and not your skin (ouch!), meaning you'll be cutting down on a lot of pain.
- Veet Warm Hard Wax With Essential Oils, £11.19 from Superdrug -
The best time to wax? After a shower
If you're braving it at home, the most ideal time to wax yourself is after a shower when your skin is clean, dry and at it's softest.
Make sure you don't use any oil-based lotions or creams beforehand, and you should try and steer clear of waxing when you're on your period, as your skin is extra-sensitive.
Make sure the wax is heated to a bearable temperature - and always test it
Hard wax should be heated to a thick, gloopy consistency - a bit like honey.
You can test the heat of wax by doing a quick patch test on your inner wrist.
Wax will need to be re-heated every 12 minutes to maintain a stable temperature.
Sit in a 'butterfly' position
Lay down on a towel and have the soles of your feet touching - and do this in front of a mirror so that you can see exactly what's going on and any missed patches.
Make sure that the light in the room is bright enough for you to spot any strays.
Apply wax in a 'swirling' motion
Spread wax onto hair generously - this will make sure that you're catching all of the hair in the wax.
The wax should end up about the same thickness as a £1 coin.
Hold skin taut
This will trick your pain sensors, as the tighter and smoother the skin is, the easier it is to remove the hair.
Rip the wax strip off in the correct direction
It can be tricky to know which way the hair is growing - but you want to be pulling off the wax in the opposite direction.
A quick way to find out?
Most hair grows towards the centre - so if you're starting with the top, the hair grows in a downward motion, which means you'll want to push the wax down towards the centre and then pull the wax up towards you when removing it.
When you're working from the back, do it in the opposite direction.
Oh, and wax is ready to be removed when it feels tacky - not sticky.
Use a skin soother afterwards
Opting for skin-soothing lotions that contain aloe vera or witch hazel is your best bet.
The ingredient will work fast to skin irritated, painful skin - a bit like it does when you have sunburn.
You should also stick to light, cotton underwear afterwards to avoid any further irritation.
When it comes to working out? AVOID - this can clog up your hair follicles causing ingrown hairs and spots.
- Decleor Aroma Epil Expert Post-Wax Gel, £25 from Feel Unique -
Exfoliate
The best way to avoid ingrown hairs? Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate.
Doing so will ensure that your hair follicles remain free from build up, and will soften any regrowth meaning your next wax should be slightly less painful.
- Ameliorate Exfoliating Body Mitt, £9.50 from Space NK -
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