red spots on legs after waxing - #20106
I am seriously freaking out here! A few days ago, I decided to wax my legs for the first time—like, super excited to get smooth skin for summer. But then, outta nowhere, I notice red spots on my legs after waxing, and now I'm totally paranoid! They kind of look like tiny bumps and they’re a little itchy too. I called my friend who waxes all the time, and she was like, "Oh, that just happens sometimes," but I can't help but worry. I thought waxing was supposed to be like this perfect way to get rid of hair. But now these red spots on legs after waxing have me second-guessing everything! I didn't have any allergies or anything before this. It’s just so frustrating. Should I just wait for them to go away? Or is there something I can do to calm the redness down? Like, is there a cream or something? Is this normal? Are red spots on legs after waxing common? Honestly, I'm ready to toss the wax and go back to shaving if this is what I gotta deal with! Any advice or insights from you all would really help!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Waxing can indeed cause red spots on legs, and they’re quite common, especially for first-timers. These are often due to skin irritation or folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicles, which can occur when hair removal methods like waxing irritate the skin. Itching and tiny bumps accompanying the redness are typical signs. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to soothe your skin. First, apply a cool compress to the affected areas to ease inflammation and itchiness. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or an aloe vera gel can help reduce redness and calm the skin—apply a small amount to the affected areas as per the instructions on the packaging. Ensure the skin is clean before applying any product to avoid potential infections. It’s crucial to avoid scratching the irritated areas, as this can make the problem worse. Additionally, try to wear loose-fitting clothing that lets your skin breathe—tight or abrasive fabrics might irritate the skin further. If the red spots persist for more than a few days or if you notice signs of an infection, like increasing pain or pus, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess whether you need a prescription treatment. Looking at prevention, consider doing a patch test next time before a full wax to see how your skin reacts. Also, prepping your skin by exfoliating a day before waxing can help by removing dead skin cells. Moisturizing regularly can keep your skin barrier healthy. Remember these reactions can vary between individuals, and sometimes trying a different brand of wax or method may reduce the risk of irritation.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.