Why Hot Showers Are a No-No for Your Post-Waxing and Shaving Skincare Routine
By Dr. Lazuk, Chief Dermatologist and CEO of Dr. Lazuk Esthetics® | Cosmetics®
There’s nothing quite as relaxing as a hot shower after a long day. However, when it comes to waxing or shaving, indulging in this steamy ritual could be doing more harm than good to your skin. As a dermatologist and skincare advocate, I’ve seen the effects of improper post-hair removal care far too often. Today, I’m here to break down why you should steer clear of hot showers after waxing or shaving, the 24-hour waiting period you should always adhere to, and why washing your face in hot water is also a bad idea.
The Science Behind Post-Hair Removal Care
When you wax or shave, you’re not just removing hair. These methods also strip away a thin layer of dead skin cells, leaving your skin more exposed. Waxing, in particular, creates tiny micro-wounds in the skin where the hair follicles are removed. Shaving can cause similar micro-abrasions, especially if you’re using a dull razor or shaving against the grain. While these processes are safe when done correctly, they leave the skin temporarily vulnerable to irritation, bacteria, and inflammation.
Why Hot Showers Are a Problem
Hot showers might feel heavenly, but they can spell disaster for freshly waxed or shaved skin. Here’s why:
Dilated Pores: Hot water opens up your pores, making it easier for bacteria on the skin’s surface to enter those micro-wounds. This can lead to infections, redness, and even folliculitis.
Skin Barrier Damage: Hot water strips away natural oils from the skin, leaving it dry and more prone to irritation.
Increased Sensitivity: After waxing or shaving, your skin is already sensitive. Adding hot water to the equation exacerbates this sensitivity, leading to discomfort and prolonged redness.
The 24-Hour Rule
The golden rule for post-waxing or shaving care is simple: avoid hot showers for at least 24 hours. During this time, your skin needs to recover and rebuild its natural barrier. Opt for lukewarm water instead, and use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to wash the treated area. Avoid scrubbing, exfoliating, or applying harsh products until your skin has fully calmed down.
Why You Should Never Wash Your Face in a Hot Shower
This brings me to another skincare no-no: washing your face in a hot shower. While it’s convenient to multitask during your shower routine, the high temperature of the water can wreak havoc on your facial skin. Here’s why:
Broken Capillaries: The heat from hot water can cause capillaries in the face to dilate or even burst, leading to redness and a blotchy complexion over time.
Compromised Skin Barrier: Facial skin is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your body. Hot water strips away essential moisture and lipids, leaving your face dry and irritated.
Acne Aggravation: The dryness caused by hot water can trigger your skin to produce excess oil, potentially leading to breakouts.
Instead, always wash your face with lukewarm water. This temperature is gentle enough to cleanse without stripping your skin of its natural protective oils.
Who Should Be Extra Careful?
While everyone should heed these tips, certain individuals are more prone to adverse reactions:
Sensitive Skin Types: Those with rosacea, eczema, or easily irritated skin are particularly susceptible to the negative effects of hot water.
Frequent Waxers/Shavers: If you remove hair often, your skin is exposed to these risks more frequently.
People in Humid or Hot Climates: Increased perspiration and bacteria levels make it even more important to avoid hot showers post-hair removal.
Potential Risks of Ignoring This Advice
Failing to follow these guidelines can lead to a range of skin issues, including:
Folliculitis: Infection of the hair follicles that causes red, inflamed bumps.
Dryness and Irritation: Persistent dryness can lead to flaking, redness, and discomfort.
Hyperpigmentation: Prolonged irritation can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly in those with darker skin tones.
My Final Thoughts
Your skincare routine doesn’t end at cleansing and moisturizing—it extends to the habits you adopt in your everyday life. Avoiding hot showers after waxing or shaving is a small but significant step in protecting your skin from irritation and infection. And when it comes to your face, lukewarm water should always be your go-to.
At Dr. Lazuk Esthetics®, we believe in educating our clients to make informed decisions about their skin. If you’re unsure about the best post-treatment care for your skin type, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Remember, the goal is to keep your skin healthy, radiant, and resilient—and that starts with a few mindful changes to your routine.
To a lifetime of glowing skin,
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