Waxing is a popular method of removing unwanted hair from different parts of the body. However, many people are often hesitant to wax their upper lip because of the misconception that it will make the hair grow back thicker. In this article, we will explore this common myth and provide you with the truth about whether waxing your upper lip really makes the hair thicker.
Table of Contents
- Description
- How to Wax Your Upper Lip
- Step by Step Guide
- Tips for Waxing Your Upper Lip
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Hair Care After Waxing Your Upper Lip
Description
Waxing your upper lip involves applying hot wax to the area and then removing the wax along with the hair. Some people believe that waxing makes the hair grow back thicker and darker. However, this is not entirely true.
The thickness and color of hair are determined by genetics and hormones. When you wax your upper lip, you are removing the hair from the root. This means that it will take longer for the hair to grow back, and when it does, it may appear thicker because the hair is growing back all at once.
However, over time, the hair will return to its normal thickness and color. Waxing does not change the hair follicle's structure, so the hair will not become thicker or darker permanently.
How to Wax Your Upper Lip
Waxing your upper lip may seem daunting, but with a few simple steps, you can do it at home. Here's what you'll need:
- Wax strips
- Wax warmer or microwave-safe bowl
- Wooden spatula
- Pre-wax cleanser
- Post-wax oil or lotion
Step by Step Guide
1. Start by cleansing your upper lip to remove any makeup or dirt.
2. Heat the wax according to the instructions on the package. If you're using a wax warmer, set it to the appropriate temperature. If you're using a microwave-safe bowl, heat the wax in 15-second intervals, stirring in between until it's melted.
3. Test the temperature of the wax on the back of your hand to make sure it's not too hot.
4. Apply the wax to your upper lip in the direction of hair growth using the wooden spatula.
5. Place a wax strip over the wax and press down firmly.
6. Hold your skin taut with one hand and use the other hand to pull the wax strip off in the opposite direction of hair growth.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until you have removed all the hair from your upper lip.
8. Apply a post-wax oil or lotion to soothe the skin and remove any remaining wax residue.
Tips for Waxing Your Upper Lip
1. Make sure your hair is at least 1/4 inch long before waxing.
2. Avoid waxing if you have any active breakouts or cuts on your upper lip.
3. Apply a pre-wax cleanser to remove any oils or dirt that may interfere with the wax's grip.
4. Hold the skin taut while removing the wax strip to reduce pain and ensure that all the hair is removed.
5. Apply a cold compress to the area after waxing to reduce redness and inflammation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does waxing your upper lip hurt?
A: Waxing can be painful, but the pain is typically brief and subsides quickly. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever before waxing to reduce discomfort.
Q: How long does waxing your upper lip last?
A: Waxing can last up to four weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows.
Q: Can you wax your upper lip if you have sensitive skin?
A: If you have sensitive skin, it's best to do a patch test before waxing your upper lip. You can also try using a sensitive skin formula wax.
Hair Care After Waxing Your Upper Lip
After waxing your upper lip, it's essential to take care of the skin to prevent irritation and ingrown hairs. Here are some tips:
- Avoid touching or rubbing the skin for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid exposure to the sun or tanning beds for 24 hours.
- Avoid applying makeup or creams to the area for at least 24 hours.
- Exfoliate the area gently two to three times a week to prevent ingrown hairs.
- Moisturize the area daily to keep the skin soft and supple.
In conclusion, waxing your upper lip does not make the hair grow back thicker. The hair may appear thicker initially, but over time it will return to its normal thickness and color. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can safely and effectively wax your upper lip at home.
