Any type of hair removal process that involves ripping the hair from its follicle can cause irritation. Waxing involves the use of a warm, sticky substance that clings to the hair and doesn't let go when peeled from the skin with a piece of muslin. Waxing any part of your face to remove unwanted hair can result in the development of red bumps, which although uncomfortable, are actually quite normal.
Identification
The bumps that develop after waxing your face are a sign that your immune system is working. In fact, such redness and irritation is your body's way of reacting to the trauma that the waxing process causes your skin and hair follicles. Waxing bumps, also known as urticaria, appear as a red rash similar to a nettle rash, according to Axiom Bodyworks' Learn Male Waxing website.
Solution
A cool compress applied to the bumps can help calm the skin on your face and soothe burning or discomfort. Simply run a washcloth under cool water, wring it out and apply it to your face for 15 minutes. Remove the compress after 15 minutes, allowing your skin to cool down. Repeat the process several times a day. In addition, a thin layer of antibiotic ointment applied to the bumps can expedite healing and prevent infection. Apply a pea-sized amount of antibiotic ointment to your skin twice a day.
Warnings
The red bumps that develop on your face after waxing should resolve within one week. If the bumps linger or the skin around the bumps changes color or becomes inflamed, an infection known as folliculitis may be present, according to University of Florida Health Services. Folliculitis results when dead skin cells, dirt and excess oils enter the already irritated hair follicles. A physician's advice is necessary if this is the case. Many times the use of a topical antibiotic in combination with an oral antibiotic will do the trick. Also, waxing, shaving or the use of a depilatory while the bumps are present is a no-no.
Prevention
A warm shower prior to waxing can help soften your facial skin and open up your pores, making waxing less traumatic. If you are unable to shower immediately before waxing, apply a warm compress to your skin. A warm washcloth left on your skin for 5 to 10 minutes should do the trick. Also, rubbing the skin of your face lightly with a warm washcloth will exfoliate dead skin cells and help remove the excess skin oils and dirt that leads to folliculitis.
Expert Insight
Don't give up on waxing your face just because you develop red bumps afterward. It may take some time for your skin to adjust to the waxing process, but once it does the red bumps and irritation will occur less and less. It is also important to keep in mind that the longer your hair is when you wax, the less prone the follicle will be to irritation. Allow your hair to grow to at least ¼ inch before each waxing. The more you wax the thinner your hair will become, and the less frequently you will need to undergo the waxing process.
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