Nothing beats the thrill of researching new adventures, escaping the daily grind, and reveling in the fun of prepping for a much-deserved getaway. But let’s be honest: there’s one pressing question that often sneaks into our packing plans — when should I wax before vacation to stay smooth the whole time?
We’ve got your back (and legs, and everything in between). Here’s the when, why, and how of waxing before you hit the beach, mountains, or wherever your wanderlust takes you. Ready? Let’s get into it.
When should I wax before vacation?
Timing is everything, especially when it comes to waxing. Ideally, you want to schedule your waxing appointment 2–3 days before you leave for vacation.
The 72-hour rule
Aim to get waxed at least 72 hours before takeoff. Why? This gives your skin time to calm down and recover from any redness or irritation. Plus, the slower regrowth (compared to shaving) means you can enjoy being hair-free for longer. If your vacay involves saltwater swims or chlorine pools, that extra buffer can also help reduce irritation.
Consider starting a wax routine even earlier
One of the most amazing benefits of starting a waxing routine is that your hair growth will actually slow down over time. Hair is removed at the root when you wax repeatedly, which disrupts the growth cycle and causes your hair follicles to weaken. As you continue with waxing services, you will be slowing down growth and building longer-lasting smooth skin. By the time your trip rolls around, you’ll have smoother skin that lasts longer with less regrowth, leaving you with more time to enjoy your adventures instead of worrying about upkeep. Talk about a vacation bonus!
Should I shave or wax before vacation?
Ah, the age-old debate. Sure, shaving is fast, but it comes with unwelcome baggage like razor burn, cuts, and the dreaded rapid regrowth. Waxing, on the other hand, offers longer-lasting results, smoother skin, and fewer ingrown hairs (hallelujah!).
Ultimately, the choice between shaving and waxing comes down to personal preference. If you want silky-smooth skin that lasts your entire trip, waxing is the way to go. But hey, the choice is yours — no judgment here.
Is it a good idea to wax before going to the beach?
Absolutely! Waxing before hitting the beach can make your seaside escapades much more enjoyable. Besides the obvious advantage of smooth, hair-free skin, waxing offers additional benefits that make it a top choice for beachgoers — or any travels.
3 benefits of waxing before vacation
- Confidence boost: Whether you’re getting a bikini, back, legs, or underarms waxed, you’ll board that plane stubble-free and glowing. With your skin looking this good, you’ll be excited to show it off no matter the itinerary.
- Less maintenance: Enjoy your days without worrying about daily shaving touch-ups! Waxing gives you up to two weeks of smooth skin — that’s more time to enjoy your vacay and less time thinking about hair removal.
- Skin-friendly: Not only does waxing remove hair, it gives you exfoliated, fresh, and smooth skin. Plus, you’re less likely to experience irritation from things like sand, saltwater, or chlorine compared to freshly shaved skin. Just remember to follow the 72-hour rule to allow your skin time to recover.
Are there bad times to get a bikini or Brazilian wax before vacation?
Now, let’s talk about the Brazilian wax. While it’s a popular choice for those heading on warm, sunny vacations to swim, timing is crucial to ensure a comfortable experience and optimal results. For example, with the sensitivity of the skin in the pubic area, it’s extra important to follow that 72-hour rule. And if you’ve accidentally gotten sunburned while working on that pre-trip glow, wait until your skin heals before waxing. Trust us — your skin will thank you.
How to get the best wax possible
For top-notch waxing results, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Let your hair grow out to ¼-inch (about the length of a grain of rice) before your appointment.
- Gently exfoliate a couple of nights before your appointment to remove dead skin. This helps the wax adhere better for smoother results.
- Avoid heavy sun exposure before and after your wax. (Hello, sunless tans! We recommend waiting at least 24-48 hours after your wax to get a spray tan.)
- Skip lotions or serums with retinoids before your appointment. Tip: Bakuchiol is a plant-based serum that provides all the benefits of a retinol — like fighting fine lines and wrinkles, fading dark spots, boosting collagen production — but with no harsh side effects.
- After your service, remember to moisturize. Here’s a roundup of our favorite lotions and moisturizers, as well as pre-wax scrubs and post-wax serums.
- Post-appointment, wear loose clothing, be gentle with your skin, and use aftercare products to extend the results of your wax as long as you can.
A final word on when to wax before vacation
Waxing before a vacation is a game-changer, giving you smooth, low-maintenance skin for your getaway. By putting down the razor and getting your waxing service scheduled 2–3 days before departure, you’ll be all set for a carefree, hair-free vacation.
Ready for your vacation glow? We’re ready for you! If it’s your first time in, you can snag a special discount. Or, if you’re a seasoned waxer, we invite you to save money by joining Club Orange — our exclusive membership program — and get 20% off your preferred service every single month.
