There’s nothing quite like that post-wax feeling: smooth, clean, and confident. You want to make it last as long as you can, but you also need to care for your body through exercise. Maybe leg day is on the schedule or you’ve got a big practice that you can’t miss. That leaves one big question: Can you work out after waxing?
Exercise and waxing can be a dynamic, confidence-boosting duo for a healthy body and healthy skin. We’re here to break down how to balance workouts with waxing, so your smooth skin and sweat sesh can coexist without compromise. Let’s keep that glow going, gym bag and all.
First things first: Is working out after waxing okay?
It’s one of the questions we get most often: Can you work out after an eyebrow wax? What about a bikini or leg wax? The answer is yes to all the above, but timing matters. We recommend avoiding intense physical activity for at least 24 hours after a wax. Working out too soon after your wax can cause chafing, irritation, and even infection. (No one wants a post-Brazilian wax bummer!)
If you’re eager to move, try swapping high-impact workouts for low-intensity options that go easier on your skin. Low-impact options keep sweat to a minimum (like walking or certain types of yoga — more on that below!). This is important because friction and sweating after waxing increases your risk of unwanted side effects like:
- Redness
- Acne and bumps
- Irritation
- Infection
- Ingrown hairs (ingrowns)
Exercise after waxing: Gentle ways to get moving
Just because you’re giving your skin a break doesn’t mean your workout routine has to stop. The truth is, you can exercise after waxing. It’s just about choosing movements that are kind to your skin and keep your body feeling great.
To prevent irritation and ingrowns, your post-wax routine should avoid workouts that cause heavy sweating or high-friction movement (sorry spin class, we’ll see you tomorrow). Instead, try these gentle ways to get your body moving:
- Walking
- Yoga
- Barre
- Pilates
- Stretching
- Free weights
Can you work out after a Brazilian wax?
If you’re wondering whether you can exercise after waxing down there, you’re not alone. The skin in this area is especially sensitive and prone to irritation, but the same rules apply. If you’re extra careful to avoid sweating or movement that could cause chafing and irritation for 24 hours after a Brazilian wax, it’ll be smooth sailing!
If you do notice any irritation, don’t panic! Just show your skin a little love with these quick recovery tips:
- Apply a cold compress for five to 10 minutes to calm any swelling and inflammation
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drinking water helps keep your skin supple and moisturized.
- Steer clear of heat like steamy showers and saunas for at least 24 hours after your wax.
Use a soothing product like a post-wax serum, specially formulated to soothe and heal skin (and prevent ingrowns) with all-natural ingredients.
How long after waxing can you swim?
Next question: How long should you wait to take a dip after waxing? Great question! And one we hear all the time from beach-bound babes and poolside loungers alike. We recommend waiting for at least 24 to 48 hours before swimming after waxing (the same goes for running!). This gives your skin time to recover and reduces the risk of irritation or infection from chlorine, saltwater, or other splashy surprises.
Pro tip: If you’re planning a vacay, schedule your wax a few days in advance so you’re ready to dive in smoothly and stress-free.
Bonus: Waxing aftercare tips to keep your skin fresh
Practicing gentle exercise after waxing is just one way to ensure you get the smoothest, longest-lasting results. Let’s talk about other ways to make your wax count, from things to avoid after waxing to tips for healthy skin:
- Avoid sun exposure. Your skin is more sensitive post-wax, especially when it comes to sun damage. Lather up with SPF and accessorize with a hat to protect your skin for up to 48 hours post-wax.
- Skip the tanning bed. Similar to sun exposure, tanning beds can damage your skin after waxing. Wait one or two days to hit the tanning bed (or opt for sunless tanning instead — here’s everything you need to know!).
- Turn down the temp in the shower. Hot showers feel great, but not for freshly waxed skin. Keep things lukewarm to prevent dehydration and irritation.
- Give your skin a break from exfoliation. Much like your body needs a rest day after working out, your skin needs a little downtime to heal, too. We recommend waiting two to three days before exfoliating after waxing to avoid unwanted irritation or ingrowns.
- Moisturize! If moisturizer isn’t already part of your skincare routine, it definitely should be! It’ll keep your skin from drying out and help it bounce back faster. Our personal fav is bakuchiol body cream — antioxidant-rich, hydrating, and oh-so-glowy.
- Wear loose clothing (especially when working out). Tight clothing increases the chance of friction and ingrown hairs — swap leggings for sweats for at least 24 hours post-wax.
Can you work out after waxing? Final answer: Yes!
Working out after waxing is totally possible — it just might look different than your usual routine. Take this as your sign to double down on post-wax pampering and give your body some rest (you’ve earned it). Whether it’s a chill walk to your favorite coffee shop or a restorative yoga flow, gentle movement helps to prevent ingrown hairs, redness, and bumps — while keeping you glowing from head to toe.
More skincare and beauty tips you’ll love
Say goodbye to ingrown hairs and irritation and hello to fresh, radiant skin. Our Cerologists are here to give you expert advice — and your best wax yet. Find a studio near you to get glowing.
