How to Prevent Ingrown Hairs After Waxing | As Seen in Byrdie

Even after waxing, do you struggle with pesky ingrown hairs? Dr. Alexandra Bowles shares tips on how to prevent them in a recent Byrdie article.

Avoid hot showers for 24 hours after waxing:

Heat can dilate your pores and disrupt the skin’s barrier, making it easier for bacteria to enter and increasing the risk of irritation or ingrown hairs. I usually recommend sticking to lukewarm water and avoiding saunas, steam rooms, or intense workouts for at least a day. Keeping the area cool and calm really supports proper healing and helps reduce the chance of bumps or redness.

Be mindful of your hormonal cycle:

Hormonal shifts can influence how your skin responds to waxing. I’ve seen that clients who wax around their period often experience more sensitivity, inflammation, and even a higher chance of ingrown hairs. If you can, try to schedule appointments during the middle of your cycle when hormones are more balanced. It usually makes for a smoother and more comfortable experience.

Apply a cold compress right after waxing:

A cold compress can be a simple but effective way to soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and gently shrink pores to help prevent ingrown hairs. I like to use a clean cloth with ice wrapped inside or a cold gel pack and apply it in short intervals. It really helps calm any stinging or redness right after waxing and supports a faster recovery.

Add Niacinamide to your post-wax routine:

Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is one of my go-to ingredients for calming and strengthening the skin. It regulates oil, minimizes redness, and keeps pores clear. I often recommend lightweight formulas like The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% or CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion. Both are great for sensitive skin and help the area recover without clogging pores or causing irritation.