A lot of clients have questions about waxing, skincare, and the spa experience in general. Please see if yours is answered below. If not, please send us an e-mail or contact us for further information.
Why should I come to a specialty salon like Belle for waxing?
Two words: expertise and hygiene. We are waxing experts who have perfected our skills for years. Please do not trust your delicate skin to someone who is not qualified. We also adhere to strict sanitary and hygiene practices, including: sanitized tables and linens, gloves at all times, strict cleanliness, proper pre-wax cleansing and post-wax care, and NEVER double-dipping a wax stick with NO exceptions.
I've never had any kind of waxing, should I do a Brazilian first?
Some people are able to do a full Brazilian despite never having been waxed, however, it is recommended to try a Bikini or In-Between-Ni wax first. There are two reasons for this: First, you will be more familiar with the esthetician, technique, discomfort level, and process when you get a full Brazilian wax. Secondly, at your second wax - which can be a Brazilian if you wish - the hair that was removed the first time will be softer and easier to wax. The whole experience of a Brazilian will be less intense if you take it in stages.
How should I prepare for a bikini or Brazilian wax?
For a first time appointment, please allow the hair to grow to approximately 1/2 inch long. This is very important to achieve a clean result - hair that is too short is not easily removed, particularly if it is coarse. This means allowing your hair to grow for at least two weeks. If you come for your appointment and have recently shaved, we may not be able to perform the service. If your hair is over 1 inch long, you may want to trim it for the best result. Avoid putting lotion or oil in the area the day of your appointment. Please come to your appointment with the front and back area clean and sanitary for your own protection. Some people find it is helpful to take Ibuprofen before the appointment.
How long does a wax last?
Typically you will have 4 to 6 weeks between waxes. This includes 2 to 3 weeks of smoothness followed by a 2 to 3 week growing out period. Sometimes underarm hair grows slightly faster.
Does waxing hurt? And what should I expect if it's my first time?
Hair being pulled from the follicle is accompanied by a slight stinging sensation, but we will use our techniques and expertise to minimize pain and redness. Arrive a couple of minutes early to fill out the client intake form and visit the restroom if necessary. Sanitary wipes are provided upon request. Please arrive with all areas clean and sanitary that are to be waxed. For body waxing services, you will be given a few minutes to undress in private - for women's intimate waxing you will be asked to remove all clothing from the waist down. Your chosen service will be performed quickly and cheerfully! A natural aftercare oil will be applied to remove any wax residue, followed by an anti-inflammatory cream.
Women commonly ask if they can receive a bikini or Brazilian wax if they are on their menstrual cycle. This is perfectly fine, just make sure to wear a fresh tampon or menstrual cup.
Ingrown hair treatment suggestions
Ingrown hairs can happen with shaving or waxing if you do not take proper care of the area. Common areas where they can occur are the bikini line and underarms. After waxing, make sure to exfoliate every day in the shower - our exfoliating massage gloves are perfect for this task. If this is not enough to keep them at bay, a treatment product such as our ingrown hair serum may be necessary. Make sure to avoid using heavily fragranced lotions or products with a lot of chemical additives in the area. If you develop a red cyst-like ingrown hair, treat it with an antibiotic ointment. If a hair is visible, try to gently free it but do not tweeze it. Leaving the hair in the follicle will allow the tissue to heal around it and prevent a reoccurrence. If you have ingrown hairs that are bothering you, let us know when you book your waxing appointment so we can have time to clear them up and discuss treatment options.
Contraindications for Waxing
If you are using prescription Vitamin A medication, such as Differen, Renova, or Retin-A micro, you should not get waxed anywhere on your body UNTIL YOU HAVE BEEN OFF THE MEDICATION FOR 3 WEEKS. If you have used or are using Accutane, you should not get waxed anywhere on your body UNTIL YOU HAVE BEEN OFF THE MEDICATION FOR 6 MONTHS. If you are using an over-the-counter product that has retinol or a high glycolic acid content you should stop using the products for at least 1 WEEK before waxing. It is very important to tell us if you have used or are using these products. We can perform a small patch test to make sure you will not have any undue reaction to the waxing process. In addition, you should not wax over areas that have an infection of any kind, psoriasis flare-up, eczema flare-up, or sexually transmitted disease outbreak. This is to ensure the health and integrity of your skin. Some medications, health conditions, or antibiotics can be contraindications for waxing. Please call us if you have any concerns, and make sure to notify us of any medication changes before your appointment.
Pregnant Clients
We are very experienced at waxing clients at all points during their pregnancy. However, please be advised that due to increased blood flow and sensitivity a full Brazilian wax can be more uncomfortable during pregnancy. We ask that if you are waxing, you discontinue if you have a high risk pregnancy or complication. We also require a doctor's release for any full Brazilian waxing after 35 weeks. Other waxes, such as a regular bikini or in-between-ni can be performed provided you are not at high risk. We value your safety and comfort above all.
Brides-to-be
We ask that all brides who wish to do any waxing directly before their wedding be established clients. Ideally we would like to see a bridal client 2-3 times at least prior to the wedding. If you are wanting bikini or Brazilian waxing, this means that you should get 2-3 waxes in the months preceding your wedding. This allows us to know your skin and how it reacts, and makes sure you won't have any redness or pain on your big day. PLEASE advise us when booking your appointment if you are a bride and have a wedding within two weeks of the appointment. We need to determine the appropriate time for your waxing appointment.
I've never had a facial service before. What should I expect?
Arrive a few minutes early to complete your client intake form and relax. You will be given time and privacy to undress to your comfort level and lay under the covers. Please remove all jewelry and your watch. As your treatment starts, we will go over your skin history and current product usage. Please let us know if you are using any Retin-A products or aggressive anti-aging products at this time. As your service is performed you can relax and enjoy the treatment. Extractions (removing debris manually from the pore) will be performed with some facial services. Extractions are done hygienically with wrapped fingers, or extremely delicate use of an extracting tool. After your service, you'll be given time to dress and enjoy a glass of water. We advise you to only put mineral makeup on the same day as your facial to assist in calming the skin and to prevent clogging your "open" pores.
Booking Appointments
To book an appointment, you can either call us or conveniently book your appointment online. At times we may be assisting other customers or performing treatments and unable to answer the phone. You can leave a message that will be returned promptly or use the online booking tool. You can also email us if you have a question or want to make an appointment.
Gratuity
Gratuity is always appreciated for any service. Gratuity is NOT included in any service price or gift certificate. We regard gratuity as a voluntary means to express your satisfaction with your service.
Payment and Refund
Payments are accepted in the form of cash, Visa, Mastercard, Discover or American Express. Belle Waxing and Skincare no longer accepts checks. We at Belle want you to be completely satisfied with your services and your purchases. Refunds will be given for 30 days after purchase for UNOPENED retail merchandise, and for 7 days after service purchase depending on individual circumstance.
Can I bring my child to my appointment?
Due to insurance liability, small children are not allowed in the treatment rooms. Unless your child can sit unattended in the waiting area, please make other arrangements for them while you receive your service. This policy will ensure that small ones are safe, your esthetician can devote her entire attention to your service, and other patrons also receive a relaxing service.
