What To Look For
Pay attention to the cleanliness of the facility that performs your waxing services. The technician should lay a fresh paper liner down on the table before your service. You shouldn't see dirty wax sticks and strips lying around. Ask the technician where she stores the tools and implements. They should be in a covered or closed container. Before applying the wax, she should confirm that you don't use medication that causes thinning of the skin and verify that the temperature is safe by checking it on the inside of her wrist.
Common Pitfalls
Double-dipping is a common practice. Beware of a technician who dips a used applicator stick back into the wax during your service. He should dispose of wax sticks after they touch your skin. If you or another client had open wounds or infections, he could contaminate the wax pot with bacteria. There is much debate over whether this practice can spread infection, but disposing of used applicators ensures the most sanitary conditions in the salon. If you are unsure of your technician's habits, ask that he use a new can of wax for your services.
Where To Buy
Have your waxing done in a salon or day spa. Your technician should display a current cosmetologist or aesthetician license on the wall of her treatment room. If you plan to have a Brazilian bikini wax, ensure that your technician has the proper training to perform this service. If you have patience and understand the basic concepts of waxing, you can purchase a do-it-yourself kit to use a home from a drug store or beauty supply store. The websites City Search or Spa Finder provide directories of places that perform waxing services.
Cost
In 2010, expect to pay between $10 and $20 for an eyebrow, lip or chin wax. An underarm wax should run $20 to $25. An arm wax costs $25 to $40, depending on whether you have only the lower arm or the full arm done. The average nationwide for a half-leg wax is $35 to $40, and the full leg usually costs double this amount. Bikini waxes cost from $30 to $80, and range from basic to Brazilian, depending on how much hair you want removed. Most salons use the term "Brazilian" refer to a removal of all hair from the front to the back of the bikini area. Back or chest waxes, common services for gentlemen, cost on average $40 to $55. A home kit costs about $29 at minimum and includes waxing strips, cleanser and lotion.
Insider Tips
Waxing can remove the outer layer of skin and create an opening for bacteria to enter. If you have a compromised immune system, you can increase your chances of getting an infection when you have waxing performed. Linda K. Franks, M. S., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the New York University School of Medicine, recommends that people with eczema, psoriasis, diabetes, or chronic liver and kidney disease avoid waxing altogether.
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