Let’s be real: Smooth skin goes way more than skin deep — it’s the secret ingredient to that crave-worthy feeling of confidence that others can pick up on, too. So, if you’re debating whether leg waxing is right for you, we’ll always be the first to say yes.
But before you go all in, you might have general questions about how to prepare for leg waxing or even the specific steps around what to do before waxing legs. If so, you’re in the right place! In this blog, we’ll share our insider leg waxing tips from the experts that will keep your legs looking and feeling their best for that summer feeling any time of year.
We’ll cover:
- How to prepare for leg waxing
- How to make sure your leg hair is the right length for hair removal
- What to expect in terms of sensitivity or pain
- What to do the day of your appointment for a positive experience
- Four tips to lock in glowing results post-appointment
How to prepare for leg waxing
If you’ve never waxed before, keep in mind that it’s completely normal to feel a little bit nervous. Just like trying anything new, getting the information you need can help put your mind at ease and build up your confidence to jump in with both feet — or in this case, both legs! So, to help you learn how to prepare for leg waxing, let’s start with a few important things to know:
1. Always work with waxing professionals who know exactly what they’re doing
A Cerologist is a licensed esthetician who is expertly trained in waxing. Ours have undergone extensive training, waxed countless customers, and are pros at creating a friendly, judgment-free zone where you can simply relax while enjoying a comfortable experience — and unbeatable results. Plus, they’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have about leg waxing tips and make skincare and waxing recommendations for your personal needs.
2. Wax type and quality matters… choose wisely
Our consciously-created wax formulas are safe for your body and designed for an easy, effective removal process. Our studios have both hard wax and soft wax. While hard wax is best for areas with coarse hair, our leg waxing services use soft wax, which is made with beeswax and hibiscus fragrance and is best for areas where hair is finer. It’s a gentle formula safe for skin that allows for a quick and smooth process.
3. You have options about how you’ll get your legs waxed
Your waxing preferences are as unique as you are. There’s no right, wrong, or “normal” — the areas you want waxed are completely up to you. That’s why with leg waxing, you can choose between a “full” or “half” service. A full means that hair is waxed from the tip of your toes to the top of your thighs. A half means hair is waxed from the top of the knee to the tip of your toes or from below the knee up to your hips. If you want to try out leg waxing, a half wax can be the perfect way to get started!
Long story short: When you come to our studios, you’re in good hands. Below, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about how to prepare for leg waxing. Let’s get into it!
How long does leg hair have to be to wax?
If you’re used to shaving every day, learning how to prepare for leg waxing can be a new and different process. The pre-appointment grow-out period is part of this. For leg waxing to be most effective, body hair needs to be between a quarter inch and a half inch. Typically, this means waiting two weeks to four weeks after shaving your legs.
While this might seem like a long time, the longer you wait for leg hair to grow out before your leg waxing appointment, the better the process will work. (So, it will be worth it!) That may mean wearing pants instead of shorts or skirts, or other clothing choices that help you feel most comfortable during the grow-out period.
Help — What if my leg hair isn’t long enough for waxing?
No worries, it happens! If your leg waxing appointment is coming up and your leg hair isn’t at least a quarter inch or you shaved recently, give your local studio a call to talk about rescheduling. Just be sure to call the studio at least 24 hours in advance! As you plan your timing, keep in mind that it’s recommended to get a leg wax every 4-6 weeks or so, as this gives your hair enough time to grow to the proper length.
Is getting your legs waxed painful?
If it’s your first time getting your legs waxed, this question is likely top of mind. We feel you — and we get it. Because body and skin sensitivity will vary from person to person, you won’t necessarily know how waxing feels to you until your first visit. With that in mind, no one wants an uncomfortable experience. That’s why our process and wax are designed with ease and efficiency to make your wax as comfortable as it can be.
Pro tip: Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen a half hour or so before your service can help take the edge off. And as you get your legs waxed more regularly, the less sensitivity you’ll feel. If you ask us, it’s a classic example of trusting the process — and oh so worth it!
What should I do leading up to my waxing appointment — and the day of?
When it comes to waxing, your skin is your canvas. For best results, we recommend taking a few steps to create the ideal conditions for smooth, even results.
A few days before your appointment, we recommend exfoliating your legs with a body scrub, like our Scented Sugar Scrubs, and moisturizing with non-greasy products for best results. You’ll also want to avoid sun exposure starting two days before getting your leg waxed, and for two days after as well. A sunburn can add to skin sensitivity, making your skin canvas less than ideal for waxing.
The day of your appointment, plan to arrive at the studio with clean skin. Simply wash and cleanse your body as you normally would. It’s also important to skip coffee and caffeine before your appointment since this can increase sensitivity.
Lock in glowing results: 3 post-appointment leg waxing tips
- Amp up the self-care: There’s no wrong time to practice self-care, but it’s especially important after a leg waxing appointment. Here’s what to do: Keep clothing loose (tight pants can create friction against your legs), stick with mildly warm water temperatures when bathing (no hot water for up to two days), and opt for a gentle body cleanser and moisturizer. Take this as your sign to take it easy.
- Exfoliate your skin up to three times a week: To keep ingrown hairs at bay post-appointment, make exfoliation a regular part of your maintenance routine. Just be sure to wait 48 hours or so, since skin can be sensitive after leg waxing, especially if it’s your first time. Red bumps can show up after your appointment, but these typically fade within a few hours.
- Keep waxing appointments consistent: You took the first step to feel your best in your skin, now keep it up! We recommend making appointments every four weeks or so, but talk to your Cerologist to set up a schedule that makes sense for you. Plus, take advantage of a membership to save on your service!
Whether it’s your first time waxing your legs or your 50th, we’ve got you!
You’ve got the tips, tricks, and secrets for success and know exactly how to prep for leg waxing. Hint: Once you start getting your legs waxed, you’ll probably want to check out other waxing services, too. So, don’t be surprised if your entire hair removal routine changes for the better.
Now, it’s time to book your waxing appointment! Once you step into the studio, your Cerologist will be able to answer questions, share their expert recommendations, and walk you through what to expect before you get your legs waxed. See you in the studio!
Loved this read? Get more waxing and skincare inspo here!
It’s time to get your glow on! It all starts with your first waxing appointment — book now to step into a whole new skin era.
