Hives from Waxing

Once in a while, I have a client who experiences hives immediately after a waxing. They can be small itchy bumps right where hairs were or larger welts that look like mosquito bites. The hives only last a short time. An hour at most. Typically, hives on the area that was waxed first, are already fading by the time the waxing service is completed. 

This is a histamine reaction. The body is reacting to the hairs being pulled out. The body is perceiving the hair removal as a threat. The immune system springs into action producing histamine to fight the threat, like an allergic reaction. Does this mean my client was allergic to the wax? No. The body is reacting to the irritation of the hair being pulled out not the wax itself, producing inflammation and hives as a defense mechanism.

Calm the Reaction

There are some things you can do to calm the reaction. You could take an anti histamine allergy medication such as Zyrtec before you get waxed. After waxing, apply a thin layer of an anti histamine cream such as, Benedryl Cream, to help stop the histamine reaction. You can also try a thin layer of a cortico steroid cream, such as hydrocortizone cream, to help calm the inflammation.

See me at Styling Point in Media, Pa. for a perfect waxing!

I have also heard that hives and excessive redness occur when there is too much acid in the body. Taking an antacid, such as Tums, about 20 minutes before waxing will help calm this type of reaction. A salt water compress after waxing will also calm the reaction.

You can choose to wait it out. The hives will go away on their own.

Read about sensitive skin care products

It's never too late to start taking care of your skin. You can see me at the salon for a skin consultation, facial, other skin care services including waxing or to purchase Yonka Skin Care Products.  Styling Point 610 566-1070

Have a Beautiful Day!

xo

Jill

Licensed Cosmetologist, Esthetician, Makeup Artist

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