Using Oil Instead of Talc for Waxing

Traditionally when waxing is taught students are advised to apply a layer of talcum powder to the area being waxed. This achieves several things, it keeps the area dry, it makes the treatment a little more comfortable as the wax will stick to the hairs rather then the skin.

The use of an oil may seem a little unusual as we are taught to use a pre-wax cleanser to remove dirt and oils from the skin before waxing. But once therapists have tried waxing with oil they rarely return to powder.

The oil works by providing a lipid barrier between the skin and the wax – in essence a very thin oil barrier. Since the wax doesn’t adhere to the skin its removal is easier and less painful for the client. When using oil for intimate waxing where the skin is very thin and fragile this helps reduce the risk of abrasions or skin lifting.

It is important to choose an appropriate oil, ideally a very light oil. If the oil is too thick or heavy you will find the wax won’t adhere. I personally find that Perron Rigot Jasmin Oil is one of the best products around for this.

When using an oil before applying wax you need to remember the rule of thumb less is more, it needs to be used very sparingly. Prepare the area of the client to be waxed with a pre-waxing cleanser such as Perron Rigot Blue Lotion and then apply a tiny amount of oil to your hands – just a few drops. Cover the palms of your hands and then rub the oil over the area you are preparing to wax.

Remember you are only applying a sparse covering, if you find you have put too much oil on the skin just wipe over with a wax strip or piece of couch roll. You will find that this can leave a perfect amount of oil on the skin.

When applying the wax to the skin if you find that it doesn’t adhere to the skin and slips around don’t panic. Just remove the wax as you would normally and then wipe over the area with a wax strip.

When waxing large or intricate areas you may find that you need to add more oil as you go on to keep the skin protected. Don’t worry about applying too much, you can always wipe any excess off.

Oil can also be used as a great post wax product when using warm strip waxes for removing any sticky residue. Once you have finished waxing, before you apply your post wax lotion or product apply a generous amount of oil to your hands and rub over the area, then use your cleanser product on a cotton pad to remove the oil and wax residue. Once cleansed you can apply your chosen post wax product.

To recap, for use before waxing use sparingly, for after waxing use generously.