Is it normal to get hives after a wax?

In short…yes. It isn’t too common but can happen and is nothing to worry about.

Hives are raised welts or bumps on the surface of the skin. The bumps can appear more pale than your natural skin colour, the same colour as your skin or pink/red. Sometimes they come along with what looks like a blotchy rash. It can be alarming if you have never had hives before, especially if they are slightly itchy. But rest assured there’s no need to panic!

Hives post waxing are rare but if they do appear it is usually because either it is your first wax (still very uncommon) or you don’t get waxed very frequently! The skin feels heat, then hairs are removed from their root which triggers a sensation in the nerve endings along with a light exfoliation of the skin. The skin is reacting to what it thinks is a type of trauma. 

Okay lucky you, you’re one of the small percentage that gets these post waxing hives, how the heck do you get rid of them? These hives will naturally disappear on their own but using a cold compress after your wax will cool the temperature of the skin. This will reduce redness and calm any itchiness. Aloe Vera or Zensa Healing Cream can also help cool and heal the skin but be sure to avoid any other products with chemicals, fragrances and anything that could cause further irritation.  

Although I can’t guarantee that these tips will help to lessen the chances of hives it doesn’t hurt to try — First off ensure that you are following usual precautions before and after waxing (No heat, sweating, stimulants, tanning, etc.) See Waxing FAQ’s for pre waxing info. Next, ensure that you’re not using any of these prior to your wax:

• Chemical peel products/treatments (acids such as salicylic, glycolic, alpha hydroxy)

• Blood thinning medications

• Hydroquinone (Skin lightening products)

• Steroids

  Last but not least, ensure you are going to a reputable wax bar (Such as Sweet Beauty Esthetics 😜)

  Be sure to check out full website, reviews, social media platforms and their hygiene standards.