skin burn after waxing - #13918
I am getting super worried about this skin burn after waxing I had last week! Like, I usually get waxed regularly and never had issues, but this time was just weird. The lady at the salon seemed a bit rushed, and maybe that’s why my skin burn after waxing feels pretty bad. At first, I thought it was just a little irritation, you know, sort of like what happens sometimes. But no! Now it’s red and itchy and feels really sensitive. I’ve been putting aloe on it, but every time I touch that area or even wear clothes, it just burns. I didn’t expect this skin burn after waxing to be this severe. Is this typical or should I be concerned? I was talking to a friend who mentioned that they had a similar experience with skin burn after waxing, but that their skin healed quickly. What’s up with that? Should I see a dermatologist or give it more time? It’s almost frustrating seeing this skin burn after waxing when usually it’s so smooth and perfect afterward. Should I keep using topical treatments or is there something specific you docs would recommend for this skin burn after waxing? Would really appreciate any advice here!
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Doctors’ responses
Experiencing a skin burn after waxing can be concerning, especially when it feels more severe than usual. It’s not uncommon for the waxing process to sometimes irritate the skin, especially if the skin is more sensitive or if the waxing was done with excessive heat or pressure. The symptoms you’re describing, such as redness, itchiness, and increased sensitivity, can occur following a burn from waxing. First, it’s good that you’ve started with applying aloe, as it can help soothe the irritation and provide moisture which can aid healing. Nonetheless, given the severity you’ve described, there are a few additional steps you might consider taking.
Keep the area clean and ensure you’re using gentle, unscented products to avoid further irritation. Topical treatments containing hydrocortisone (available over the counter) can help reduce inflammation and itching. Apply a small amount twice a day, but if there’s no improvement after a few days, or if symptoms worsen, it might be wise to consult a healthcare professional. Avoid wearing tight or abrasive clothing over the affected area, as friction can worsen the symptoms.
If signs of infection develop, such as increased pain, pus, or fever, seek immediate medical attention. This could require an antibiotic treatment. As your skin heals, pay attention to any other skincare products that could irritate the area, including typical exfoliants or acne treatments which might worsen the burn. In most cases, mild burns from waxing heal in about a week, but if this isn’t the case or if you have any underlying skin conditions that could delay healing, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist. A professional can assess the burn properly and recommend personalized treatment, which might include stronger prescription creams or specific hygiene routines to follow. Remember, prevention is key in the future; make sure the wax isn’t too hot, and consider patch testing new products before broader application.
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