Numbing the skin before waxing is a common practice to help minimize pain and discomfort during the waxing process. There are a few different options available for numbing the skin prior to waxing, along with some pros and cons to consider for each method.
Topical Numbing Creams
One of the most popular options for numbing before waxing is to apply a topical numbing cream or gel to the area being waxed. These products contain active ingredients like lidocaine or benzocaine that work by blocking pain signals to the brain. When applied to the skin about 30 minutes prior to waxing, the numbing agent absorbs into the skin and numbs nerve endings in the applied area.
There are many over-the-counter topical numbing creams made specifically for waxing that can be purchased at drug stores, beauty supply stores, or online. Some popular options include:
- GiGi Anesthetic Numbing Gel
- Bliss Poetic Waxing Kit
- Numb 520 Numbing Cream
- Topicaine 5 Numbing Spray
The pros of using a topical numbing cream for waxing include:
- Numbs the skin surface to help reduce pain and discomfort during waxing
- Easy to apply and use
- Numbing takes effect in about 30 minutes
- Makes waxing more tolerable for those sensitive to pain
- Affordable over-the-counter option
Some potential cons of numbing creams to consider are:
- May not eliminate pain entirely, results vary
- Can only penetrate the skin’s surface, may not numb well for deeper waxing
- Risk of over-numbing the area if too much is applied
- Some numbness may remain after waxing is completed
Oral Pain Medication
Another option some people consider for numbing before waxing is taking an oral over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications work systemically to reduce inflammation and block pain receptors throughout the body. They can be taken about 30-60 minutes prior to waxing.
Benefits of using oral pain medication include:
- Helps minimize discomfort during the waxing process
- Simple to take with no application needed
- Low risk option when taken at standard over-the-counter dosages
- Relatively affordable
Some downsides to keep in mind are:
- Results may vary, may not eliminate pain entirely
- Requires taking medication ahead of time and waiting for it to take effect
- Potential side effects like stomach upset or medication interactions
- Not as targeted as a topical numbing cream
Ice Packs
Using ice packs or cold compresses can also help provide some numbing and pain relief when applied to the skin prior to waxing. The cold temperature helps constrict blood vessels and block pain signals.
To use this method, wrap ice cubes or a cold pack in a towel and apply it to the area being waxed for about 5-10 minutes leading up to the appointment. Reapply as needed.
Ice can be beneficial for numbing because it:
- Is easy to use and apply
- Provides a chilling sensation to numb the skin
- Causes temporary constriction of blood vessels
- Is affordable and accessible
Some cons of ice packs include:
- Only provides very short-term numbing
- Skin may remain very cold during waxing procedure
- Could potentially cause frost damage if applied too long
- Difficult to apply ice thoroughly to some areas being waxed
Local Anesthetic Injections
For more extensive waxing procedures like Brazilian waxes, some providers may offer the option of localized numbing through injections. A topical anesthetic like lidocaine can be injected under the skin into areas like the bikini line to fully numb before waxing extremely sensitive regions.
Benefits of anesthetic injections include:
- Provides thorough numbing of the injected area
- Minimizes extreme discomfort during sensitive waxing treatments
- Lasts longer than topical methods
Drawbacks to consider are:
- Must be administered by licensed professional
- Invasive method may not appeal to some clients
- Potential risks like infection, bruising, or injury from injections
- May be more costly than other methods
Should You Numb Before Waxing?
Whether or not to use a numbing method prior to waxing is an individual choice based on your pain tolerance and the area being waxed. Many people tolerate waxing well without numbing. However, numbing can make the process more comfortable if you are very sensitive to pain or having a particularly delicate area like the face or bikini line waxed.
It’s a good idea to do a patch test first when using any numbing product for waxing. Try applying to a small area and waiting 30 minutes to ensure you don’t have any negative reactions before using on larger areas. It’s also smart to consult your waxing technician, as some may prefer clients do not use topical numbing creams prior to appointments.
Tips for Using Numbing Products Effectively
- Apply topical creams thickly and entirely over the area being waxed
- Wait at least 30 minutes for numbing to fully take effect after applying
- Cover area with plastic wrap after applying numbing cream to increase absorption
- Take oral pain medication about an hour before waxing for best pain relief
- Apply ice packs for 5-10 minutes multiple times leading up to waxing
- Communicate with your technician if you have used any numbing methods prior to your appointment
- Follow all usage instructions carefully to prevent over-numbing or skin irritation
What Are the Most Painful Areas for Waxing?
Sensitivity to waxing pain can vary greatly among individuals based on factors like pain tolerance, the particular area being waxed, hair coarseness, and appointment frequency. However, these areas are often reported as the most painful for waxing:
- Bikini line/Brazilian
- Underarms
- Upper lip
- Nose
- Toes
The bikini line and Brazilian waxing in particular tend to be very painful areas due to the delicate skin and presence of nerves here. The face, including the upper lip and nose, is also very sensitive.
What’s the Best Method to Numb Before Bikini and Brazilian Waxes?
Bikini and Brazilian waxes require removing hair from some of the most sensitive areas of the body. For many people, numbing these areas prior to hair removal can make the process much more tolerable.
The most effective numbing methods commonly used for bikini and Brazilian waxes are:
- Topical numbing sprays/creams – Application directly to the bikini line, labia, etc., 30+ minutes prior provides localized numbing during waxing.
- Oral pain medication – Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen an hour before can help reduce discomfort.
- Anesthetic injections – Lidocaine injected into the bikini region numbs more thoroughly and deeply than topical products.
Ice packs can also provide some temporary numbing right before waxing extremely sensitive areas like the labia. Always communicate with your technician if you have used any numbing products beforehand.
Is Numbing Safe to Use Before Waxing?
When used properly, numbing products approved for topical application or oral ingestion are generally safe options for waxing. However, it’s important to carefully follow usage directions and talk to your waxing technician about any concerns.
Potential side effects or risks to be aware of include:
- Skin irritation or allergic reaction from topical numbing creams
- Over-numbing if too much topical cream is applied
- Bruising, bleeding, or infection from anesthetic injections
- Interactions with other medications if taking oral painkillers
Doing a patch test before extensive use and avoiding using numbing products excessively or unnecessarily can help prevent adverse effects. Speak to a doctor if concerned about any side effects or using numbing for medical procedures.
Conclusion
Decreasing pain and discomfort during the waxing process is possible with the careful and strategic use of numbing products like topical creams, ice, medications, or injected anesthetics. However, numbing is not mandatory for waxing. The optimal numbing method varies based on personal preferences. Communicating with your waxing provider is key to ensure safe and effective numbing.