Waxing is one of the most effective ways to get rid of unwanted hair. Even if it’s not a forever adieu, waxing sure knows how to make unwanted hair take an extended vacation. So, how long does a waxing last?
That depends on your own body and where you’re removing hair. Hormones, diet, and your genetics can all impact how long it takes hair to grow back on your body. The great thing is that hair removed at the root grows back softer and finer after your first waxing, and a consistent waxing schedule can actually slow down your hair growth, keeping your skin in the smooth spotlight longer.
How long does waxing last?
You’ll be hair-free for at least 2 to 3 weeks after your waxing services, and sometimes longer, depending on what part of your body you’re having waxed.
Tips for making a wax last longer
Your waxing will be more effective if you exfoliate several times a week to avoid getting ingrown hairs.
You need to wait at least a little while before your next wax appointment because your hair should be ¼” to ½” long (about the length of a grain of rice) to ensure good results.
If your hair is too short, there is a risk the wax may not be able to grasp onto the hair enough to remove it. If your hair is too long, it’s easier to miss a spot. Not to mention, the hair removal process will be more painful.
We recommend scheduling your waxing appointments about 4 weeks apart, but some people will be able to go longer and some might want to come back sooner, depending on how thick and dark their hair is.
How long does waxing last the first time?
After your first professional wax appointment, expect your hair to start growing back a little quicker — after 1 to 2 weeks. There will be some hair under the skin that hasn’t broken through yet, so it can’t be removed from the root. If you get your hair waxed consistently every 3 to 4 weeks, however, you’ll likely find that it starts to take longer for your hair to grow back.
The cycle of hair growth
There are three steps in the cycle of hair growth:
Growing (the anagen phase): At any time, about 90% of your hair follicles are in the growth phase, when the hair cells divide and hair sprouts and grows.
Transitional (catagen phase): A small percentage of your hair is in the short transition phase, when the hair gets cut off from its base and loses its blood supply.
Resting (telogen phase): Finally, the remainder of your hair is in the resting phase, when it’s pushed out of the skin and falls out. Then the cycle starts again.
How long does a Brazilian wax last?
A Brazilian wax removes all the hair in your pubic or bikini area, from front to back, and it typically lasts 3 to 4 weeks once you establish a waxing routine. This can vary depending on the style of Brazilian wax (how much hair is removed) and your personal preferences.
People who get a Brazilian wax regularly might find that they can go 5 to 6 weeks between hair removal appointments, as waxing consistently can slow the rate of regrowth.
How long does a bikini wax last?
A bikini wax removes all the hair on the outside of your panty line or thigh crease, while a modified bikini wax removes even more, leaving a strip of hair down the middle of the bikini area. A bikini wax lasts about 4 weeks — you’ll need ¼” to ½” of hair before your next waxing to ensure the waxing is effective at pulling it out at the root.
How long does a leg wax last?
Since you’re removing hair from the root, a leg wax lasts longer than shaving. It usually takes a couple of weeks for hair to start growing back, and again you’ll want to wait another week or two for the hair to get long enough for a subsequent waxing appointment to be most effective. Over time, you can stretch the time between appointments to 4 to 6 weeks. The great thing is, the hair will grow back thinner and finer, and the more you wax, the more you’ll see those results.
How long does an eyebrow wax last?
Whether you’re getting rid of those errant eyebrow hairs or want more extensive shaping, an eyebrow wax lasts anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on how fast your eyebrows grow and how dark, thick, and noticeable your brow hairs are.
While you might want to tweeze a few stray hairs as they grow in, try to hold off and let a professional handle it. Brow hairs have different growth cycles, and waxing removes hairs at the same growth stage, which can eventually lead to hairs growing back at the same time. This makes it easier to maintain the shape longer. Tweezing disrupts this cycle by removing hairs at different stages, which can lead to a more constant need for grooming. This will ensure that your brow shape best enhances your eyes and face.
How many waxes does it take for hair to stop growing?
Typically, the more you wax, the lighter, finer, and sparser your hair will grow back. Regular waxing can also make hair grow back slower, but it won’t stop hair growth completely. The only way to do that is with repeated laser or electrolysis treatments, which can be costly and often works most effectively only on those with light skin color and dark hair.
Does it matter what type of wax is used?
In terms of how long a wax lasts, the type of wax doesn’t make much difference. But when it comes to hair removal treatments, yes! It does matter what type of wax is used. At all of our Waxing the City studios, we use two different types of waxes: hard and soft. The difference between them comes down to the formulation and removal technique.
Hard Wax
Hard wax is best for smaller or more sensitive areas. Hard wax is just what it sounds like — it’s applied in a thick layer when warm and hardens on the skin, so it “shrink wraps” to the hair, not your skin. Hard wax doesn’t require the Cerologist to use cloth strips for removal because the wax itself acts as its own strip. It’s often used for hair removal on your:
Bikini line
Underarms
Eyebrows
Upper lip
Other areas of the face
Soft Wax
Soft wax is suited for larger areas, as it’s more pliable and easier to apply. Soft wax is pulled off with a strip of cloth or some other material, and is best for your hair removal on your:
Legs
Arms
Chest
Back
A final word on waxing
So, how long does a waxing last? It’s dependent on your body, the area waxed, and other factors. Yet, there’s one thing you can count on: Regular waxing gradually transforms your hair into a less frequent guest star, appearing lighter, finer, and sparser. Waxing not only leaves you smooth and hair-free, but it also gives you longer-lasting results than shaving. It’s more budget-friendly too, in comparison to the high costs of other hair removal techniques.
Whether you’re looking for glowing, ultra-smooth skin or need a simple pampering, we’ve got you covered. Check out everything we offer — from hair removal services to brow and lash tints — here.
