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does waxing makes skin dark
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #16070
45 days ago
114

does waxing makes skin dark - #16070

Navya

I am really confused about something that's been bugging me for a while. Last month, I decided to try waxing for the first time because my friend claimed it was amazing. But ever since then, I’ve noticed my skin feels kinda off. A few days after waxing, I spotted some dark patches on my skin, and now I'm worried—does waxing makes skin dark? I mean, I thought it would just be smoother and nicer looking, but instead, I'm dealing with these weird darker areas. It’s kind of ruining my confidence, to be honest. I read articles online that say waxing can make your skin darker due to irritation, but I didn't think it would happen to me. It's like, did I overdo it or something? I only waxed my legs and underarms, and I didn’t even have any bad reactions at first. Why would my skin change color like this? I’m also worried if it's gonna be permanent or not. Does waxing makes skin dark for everyone or is it just me? What can I do to improve this? Like, should I stop waxing altogether or find another method? Anyone else experience this? Please help!

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Doctors’ responses

Waxing doesn’t inherently make the skin darker for everyone, but in some cases, it can lead to temporary skin darkening. This usually happens due to irritation or inflammation caused by the waxing process. When you remove hair with waxing, it can sometimes cause irritation or minor trauma to the skin, which can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This is a common response, especially if your skin is sensitive or if you were exposed to the sun unprotected shortly after waxing.

To manage this, applying a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer or an aloe vera gel can help calm irritation. Also, make use of sunscreen regularly, as UV exposure can worsen pigmentation issues. If the hyperpigmentation is persistent, over-the-counter products with ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C might help lighten those spots. Since you’re concerned about recurrence, consider trying other hair removal options that are gentler on the skin, such as shaving or using hair removal creams, but keep in mind that each method has pros and cons. If waxing is your preferred choice, ensure you’re getting it done by a professional who uses suitable techniques for your skin type.

If these darker patches don’t begin to fade in a few weeks, it might be worth consulting a dermatologist who can offer targeted treatments, like topical retinoids or professional peels, for more stubborn discoloration. Also, avoid picking at or scrubbing the dark areas, as this could exacerbate the issue. It’s not usually permanent, but proactive measures can speed up recovery and reduce the chances of reoccurrence. Remember, any sudden or severe skin changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to ensure there’s no underlying condition.

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