5 ways to use oil when waxing

Oil is one of the most versatile tools in a modern waxer’s bag of tricks. Many waxing brands now include a pre or post-wax oil in their line-up, but there is more to this wonder product than first meets the eye.

Here are some ideas for getting the most out of our slippery chum…

Before waxing

Probably the most well-known technique in this bunch, it’s easy to forget that the use of pre-wax oil is a relatively recent phenomenon. When faced with especially dehydrated, sun-damaged or fragile skin, apply a light sheen of oil to the body before slapping on the sticky stuff. This creates a lipid barrier that gives extra oompf when it comes to protecting dry and delicate skins. Oil can be used under all strip, non-strip and roller waxes, regardless of brand. Protect sensitive skin by adding more oil if you need to go back over an area with your wax to catch any stragglers. 

On gloves

Apply a few drops to your gloved hands before you start waxing. It’ll help avoid getting sticky and you’ll be amazed how much easier it is to rub your strips, too. Got wax on your hands mid-treatment? No need to change gloves, simply remove any annoying splatters from your fingers by rubbing a few drops of oil between your digits. Good as new!

Wax where you don’t want it

Rogue wax dribbles on the body can be banished easily with a splash of oil. Twist the hair between your fingers and repeat until all stickiness has disappeared. Incidentally, this also works if you accidentally drop wax on the carpet, but test on an inconspicuous area first and make sure you wipe off any remaining oil with clean water.

After waxing

Don’t send clients home sticking to their clothes. Massage a generous amount of oil into the skin at the end of every waxing service. This will dissolve any wax residue that might be lurking and ensures your customers don’t look like a human lint ball when they peel their kit off later. Shift really stubborn blobs with a paper strip and a bit of elbow grease (a firm wipe will make short work of gummy patches), then cleanse and apply your usual post-wax lotion.

Cleaning pots and trolleys

Keep those workstations sparkling clean by using a few drops of oil on a paper strip to wipe over your heaters and work surfaces between clients. It’ll clear the worst of the drips and dribbles until the end of the day, when you can then use your normal equipment cleaner to give things a really thorough blitz.

Frying chips

Mmmm, chips… sorry, wrong blog. But now my tummy is rumbling… time for dinner, byeeee!



© Andy Rouillard 2018