How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics (2024)

By Ash15th February 2021Category: Advice

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Medically Reviewed June 2023, by Dr Benedetta Brazzini, for sk:n. Next review due June 2024.

Waxing can seem like a fantastic way to get rid of unwanted body hair, but as with a lot of beauty treatments, it does have its downsides.

One of the side effects of waxing is the risk of burn, which can occur if the wax applied to the skin is too hot, causing a great deal of pain and unsightly blemishing.

If you’ve experienced a wax burn, follow the steps below for a speedy recovery.

How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics (1) 1. Cool the skin

Submerge the burn in cool water, or allow cold water to run over the affected area for at least 20 minutes. If you’ve suffered a wax burn on the face, soak a flannel in cool water and apply it directly to the burn. You should allow at least five minutes for this process, but closer to twenty minutes will yield better results.

How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics (2) 2. Apply ice

You must never apply icedirectlyto a burn, but instead, wrap a cloth or flannel around an icepack or ice cubes. The cloth should then be pressed against the burn, reducing swelling and soothing the pain.

How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics (3)3. Apply Aloe Vera

Aloe is the magic ingredient when it comes to treating burns, and every home should have some on hand. 100% pure aloe vera gel is the best option for treating burns, and it is important to find a clean, healthy product with no chemical additives. The gel should be gently dabbed on with your fingertips on the burn area and reapplied several times a day.

How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics (4)4. Bandage if necessary

To avoid infection, bandaging your burn might be a good idea, especially if it’s in an area that is susceptible to bacteria. If your burn is facial or simply too awkward to dress, make a conscious effort to keep any dirt or unnatural products away from it, and always keep it clean.

How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics (5) 5. Treat the pain

Over-the-counter ibuprofen can not only eliminate pain, but also reduces swelling, and is a very effective tool in the treatment of wax burns.

How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics (6)6. Use SPF

Your skin is more sensitive post-waxing, so make sure to use a mineral sunscreen with a high SPF during sun exposure.

How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics (7)

Buy Heliocare 360° Fluid Cream SPF50+

How long do wax burns last?

Minor wax burns and scars take between 1 to 2 weeks to fully heal. Fading may take a little longer if you have sensitive skin. Whether hot wax or cold wax strips were used, the risks and period of recovery are similar.

However, it is recommended to visit a beauty salon if undergoing hot waxing to ensure the temperature is optimal before application and avoid further damage to the skin.

Do I need to take extra steps if I have undergone facial waxing?

Facial burns are highly common, because the skin is more sensitive especially around the eyebrows and upper lip area.

For eyebrow and upper lip wax burns, it’s safe to follow the same steps listed above, however, avoid using skincare products which contain retinoids or acids, as these may aggravate the irritation and prolong the period of recovery.

Prevention tips

You can prevent wax burns altogether by following these steps:

  • Carry out patch tests: apply the wax on a small portion of thicker skin, such as on your arm or thigh, to ensure the temperature is just right
  • Avoid waxing if you have a sunburn, wounds, or have been using retinoids or chemical peels

Need help?

If you’re looking to get rid of unwanted body hair without suffering the consequences of waxing,laser hair removalis a safe and fast way to achieve smooth, beautiful skin. You will never have to worry about growing your hair out, burns, or the trouble of the hair returning shortly afterwards.

How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics (2024)

FAQs

How to Treat a Wax Burn in 6 Steps | sk:n clinics? ›

Immediately run the burn under cool water for 20 minutes. Rinse the area with mild soap, and if it's still painful, apply a cold compress to the area. Don't apply ice directly to the skin. Follow up with an antibacterial ointment like Neosporin or Bacitracin, and cover the burn with an adhesive bandage or gauze.

How to treat a wax burn? ›

Immediately run the burn under cool water for 20 minutes. Rinse the area with mild soap, and if it's still painful, apply a cold compress to the area. Don't apply ice directly to the skin. Follow up with an antibacterial ointment like Neosporin or Bacitracin, and cover the burn with an adhesive bandage or gauze.

What ointment is good for wax burns? ›

Apply some aloe vera generously but gently to your burn area. Reapply the gel five to six times daily, particularly when you notice dryness or pain. You might wonder what if you're allergic to aloe vera or prefer not to use it? In that case, antibiotics and healing ointment for burns will also work.

Can I put Neosporin on a wax burn? ›

Put Some Lotion on the Burn

Aloe, cortisone, or Neosporin will help you get rid of redness and inflammation. This helps you recover quickly after your waxing treatment so you can enjoy your smooth, hairless skin.

Can you put hydrocortisone cream on wax burn? ›

After a wax, it is also a good idea to apply aloe or hydrocortisone cream to promote healing and soothe the affected skin.

What does a first degree wax burn look like? ›

Most first degree burns involve a small surface area of the skin, but some affect larger areas. They usually present as a dry, discolored area of skin. Burns on light skin look red, whereas burns on dark skin appear reddish-brown. Typically, first degree burns do not break the skin or cause blisters to form.

How long does ripped skin from waxing take to heal? ›

If you're wondering how long it takes skin ripped from waxing to heal, the timeline will generally be around 1-2 weeks. That said, everyone's skin is different, and some people's skin can heal faster or slower than others.

Is vaseline good for wax burns? ›

Keeping the skin moist using petroleum jelly will also help with the healing. Since wax burns are so superficial, they resolve completely in 7-8 days. Don't pick on the peeling skin. If the burn is on a sun exposed area (for example, the upper lip region), make sure to wear sunscreen regularly.

Is aquaphor good for wax burns? ›

I have used burn cream and aquaphor with cold compresses and aloe vera off the plant, but don't use that if it bothers you. Don't wear any make up on it until your day, and then if the skin is no longer open, you can put a silicone scar protecting gel on it and then apply the cover up over that.

What does a 2nd degree burn look like? ›

2nd-degree burn.

This type of burn affects both the epidermis and the second layer of skin (dermis). It may cause swelling and red, white or splotchy skin. Blisters may develop, and pain can be severe. Deep second-degree burns can cause scarring.

What ointments to use after waxing? ›

  • Bareskin Aloe Vera Gel 1 L SKU# PAO4. ...
  • Bareskin Aloe Vera Gel 250ml SKU# PAO4A. ...
  • Bareskin Clear-It 5 Litre SKU# WO29C. ...
  • Bareskin Clear-It Oil 125 ml SKU# WO29A. ...
  • Bareskin Clear-It Oil 500 ml SKU# WO29. ...
  • Bareskin Green Tea Lotion 1 L SKU# PAO3. ...
  • Caron After Wax Cleanser 1 L SKU# CLO3A.

Does wax burn leave a scar? ›

If you have a burned, scarred, or scaly skin area above your eyebrow, upper lip, or cheeks, you will undoubtedly feel self-conscious. If skin damage from waxing mishaps is not adequately cared for, it may potentially result in a permanent scar.

How to soothe wax rash? ›

Aloe Vera. Because of its soothing and moisturising properties, Aloe Vera gel is an excellent choice for a post-waxing application. These properties help to reduce any rash, inflammation, and itching that may occur.

How do you get rid of wax burns ASAP? ›

If you've experienced a wax burn, follow the steps below for a speedy recovery.
  1. Cool the skin. Submerge the burn in cool water, or allow cold water to run over the affected area for at least 20 minutes. ...
  2. Apply ice. ...
  3. Apply Aloe Vera. ...
  4. Bandage if necessary. ...
  5. Treat the pain. ...
  6. Use SPF.
Feb 15, 2021

What cream is good for wax reactions? ›

Using cortisone cream: Applying cortisone cream to clean skin after waxing may help relieve inflammation and swelling.

What is used to soothe the skin after waxing? ›

Shokeen adds, "Use aloe vera gel, witch hazel (make sure you do not have a sensitivity before using, or a gentle moisturizer to alleviate redness and inflammation. Avoid tight clothing and excessive sun exposure to prevent further irritation."

How do you soothe a wax rash? ›

Apply a cool compress or take a cool shower to reduce irritation and sensitivity. Avoid hot baths or showers. Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid friction and irritation. Avoid perfumed products, lotions, and creams, which can irritate sensitized skin.

Which ointment is best for burns? ›

You may put a thin layer of ointment, such as petroleum jelly or aloe vera, on the burn. The ointment does not need to have antibiotics in it. Some antibiotic ointments can cause an allergic reaction. Do not use cream, lotion, oil, cortisone, butter, or egg white.

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