Waxing Best Practices: Prep, Technique and Aftercare

Good results start before the wax even touches the skin. Proper preparation ensures the wax grips the hair, not the skin, and minimises irritation.

Skin Preparation: Cleanse the skin thoroughly before waxing with a pre-wax lotion. Exfoliate 24 hours in advance to remove dead skin cells and allow the wax to grip properly. Hair should be at least 3-5 mm long for best results. For sensitive areas, a light layer of pre-wax oil can prevent irritation.

Here’s a breakdown for you.

• Cleanse the skin: Always start with a pre wax cleanser. This removes oils, makeup, sweat and residue that prevent wax from adhering properly. At National Salon Supplies, you’ll find professional-grade prewax cleansers designed for salon use.

• Exfoliate (the day before): Gently exfoliate 24 hours before waxing to remove dead skin cells and help prevent ingrown hairs. Don’t exfoliate immediately before, as it can make skin more sensitive.

• Check hair length: Hair should ideally be 3 to 5 mm long. Too short and the wax won’t grip; too long and it can be more painful.

• Dry the area: Pat the skin completely dry. Some professionals use a light dusting of talc free powder to absorb moisture in humid conditions.

Pro tip: For sensitive areas like the bikini line, apply a very thin layer of prewax oil. This creates a barrier that protects the skin while still allowing the wax to grip the hair.

Applying Wax Correctly

The application method varies slightly depending on the type of wax being used. Here’s the breakdown:

For Hot Wax and Hard Wax

• Heat wax to the right consistency, smooth and spreadable, not runny.

• Test temperature on your wrist before applying to the client.

• Apply in the direction of hair growth with a firm spatula stroke.

• Allow the wax to cool and set slightly.

• Lift one edge and remove with a quick pull against the direction of growth.

For Strip Wax

• Apply a thin layer with the direction of hair growth.

• Press a strip firmly onto the wax.

• Hold the skin taut and remove the strip against the growth in one swift movement.

• Reapply to missed hairs, but avoid repeated passes on the same spot to prevent irritation.

For Film Wax

• Apply thinner than hot wax but thicker than strip wax.

• Great for smaller, detailed areas like brows or bikini.

• Flexible setting reduces breakage, making it perfect for beginners.

For Wax Cartridges

• Insert cartridge into a wax heater to warm.

• Roll the applicator smoothly in the direction of hair growth.

• Place a strip on top and remove as with strip wax.

• Clean the cartridge head regularly to avoid buildup.

Pro tip: Always keep the skin taut when removing wax, this reduces pain and prevents bruising.

Quick Summary..

• Hot / Hard Wax: Apply in the direction of hair growth and allow to set. Remove against the growth. No strips required.
• Strip Wax: Apply a thin layer with the growth, then remove using strips against the growth. Works quickly for large areas.
• Film Wax: Apply thinner than hard wax. Its flexibility makes it great for detail work and small patches.
• Wax Cartridges: Heated in a cartridge system, rolled on evenly, removed with strips. Time saving and hygienic.

Avoiding Mistakes: Never wax hair that is too short, don’t apply wax over the same spot multiple times, and always check wax temperature before applying. Hold the skin taut to reduce discomfort and ensure a cleaner pull.

Common Waxing Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced waxers can slip up. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Waxing hair that’s too short or too long: leads to patchy results or extra discomfort.

• Not testing wax temperature: overheated wax can burn; underheated wax won’t spread.

• Waxing over the same spot too many times: causes irritation and redness.

• Failing to hold the skin taut: increases pain and risk of bruising.

• Skipping aftercare: leaves skin prone to bumps, redness and ingrowns.

Aftercare: Immediately apply a soothing lotion with aloe or chamomile. Avoid heat, exercise and direct sun for 24 to 48 hours. Exfoliate two days after waxing to prevent ingrown hairs. A hair growth inhibitor can be applied to slow regrowth and extend results. Regular treatments every 4 to 6 weeks produce finer, sparser hair over time.

After waxing, skin is sensitive and needs extra care to heal quickly and stay smooth. Here’s the golden aftercare routine:

• Soothe immediately: Apply a post wax lotion or gel with aloe vera or chamomile to calm redness and irritation.

• Avoid heat for 24 to 48 hours: No hot showers, saunas, sunbathing or intense exercise. Heat opens pores and can cause bacteria to enter.

• Don’t touch or scratch: Touching freshly waxed skin introduces bacteria and increases the risk of breakouts.

• Delay exfoliation: Wait at least 2 days before exfoliating to avoid irritation. After that, exfoliate regularly to prevent ingrown hairs.

• Use a hair growth inhibitor: Products available at National Salon Supplies can slow regrowth and keep skin smoother for longer.

• Rebook on time: Regular waxing (every 4 to 6 weeks) weakens hair growth over time and reduces discomfort.

Waxing Tools and Equipment

Professional waxing is about more than just wax. Essential waxing supplies include wax heaters, applicator spatulas, waxing strips, pre and post wax lotions, gloves and disinfectants. Investing in professional tools ensures consistent results, better hygiene and client satisfaction.

For home users, compact heaters and complete kits make waxing simpler. At National Salon Supplies, we offer professional grade wax kits and heaters that cater to both salons and individuals. Using the correct tools means less mess, smoother application and better results.

Having the right waxing tools and equipment is non negotiable for clean, efficient results.

• Wax heaters: Essential for maintaining consistent wax temperature. Choose between pot heaters and cartridge heaters depending on your system.

• Applicators: Wooden spatulas for larger areas, mini spatulas for brows and precision work.

• Strips: High quality fabric or paper strips for strip wax. Cheap strips tear easily and leave residue.

• Gloves & hygiene consumables: Always wear gloves for professional waxing to maintain hygiene. Disposable consumables are stocked in bulk at National Salon Supplies.

Upselling With Paraffin Wax Treatments

For salons, paraffin wax is a secret weapon for increasing revenue. Adding a paraffin hand or foot treatment to a waxing service creates a spa like experience and adds minimal time. Clients leave with smooth, hydrated skin and often book it again.

Paraffin wax is an often-overlooked service that adds real value. While not used for hair removal, paraffin deeply moisturises and softens the skin. Applied to hands or feet, it locks in hydration and improves circulation. Salons can use paraffin treatments as a profitable add-on to waxing services, creating a spa like experience clients love. Many at-home users also invest in paraffin kits to keep their skin soft and nourished between waxing sessions.

Wholesale Wax and Salon Benefits

Long-Term Waxing Success..

Consistency is key and Salons rely on quality and consistency. The more regularly waxing is done, the finer and weaker hair becomes. Over time, results last longer and clients need less frequent appointments. Pair this with aftercare products like growth inhibitors and soothing gels from Us.. National Salon Supplies, and you’ve got a professional system that builds loyal repeat customers.

Buying wholesale wax Australia wide ensures a steady supply of professional products at better prices. At National Salon Supplies, we stock trusted wax brands like Lycon, Mancine, Jax Wax, Depileve, Le Marque and Beauty Pro, giving salons and at-home users access to the same professional grade formulas. Bulk buying saves money and guarantees your clients receive the same reliable results every time.

Wholesale also applies to consumables. From waxing strips and spatulas to gloves and aftercare, bulk buying reduces costs and ensures you’re always stocked for busy periods. For salons, these savings directly improve profit margins while keeping service quality high.

Why Buy Waxing Supplies From National Salon Supplies?

National Salon Supplies has been a trusted partner to beauty professionals across Australia for decades. Here’s what makes us the go to destination for waxing products:

• Best Wax Brands: We stock professional wax brands trusted worldwide, from strip wax to hot wax and everything in between.
• Wholesale Wax: Buy in bulk and enjoy salon quality products at competitive prices, shipped quickly across Australia.
• Complete Range: From wax cartridges, wax kits and heaters to wax consumables and aftercare, we supply everything you need.
• Salon and Home: Our range suits both professional salons and home users who want salon quality results.
• Expert Knowledge: With years of experience, we guide customers to the right products for their needs.

With the right products, you can make waxing easier, more comfortable and more effective. Whether you’re stocking a salon or managing hair removal at home, National Salon Supplies delivers quality you can rely on.