2.1 Client’s skin preparation

Skin preparation is the treatment of the area to be epilated just before hair removal. It removes make-up, body lotion, sweat, oil and micro-organisms so that wax or depilatory cream grips the hair evenly, and it lowers the risk of infection in follicles that are left open after hair is pulled out. Preparation follows the consultation, in which contra-indications are checked (broken skin, sunburn, skin infections, warts and moles in the area, varicose veins, recent skin peels, and medicines such as isotretinoin or retinoid creams that thin the skin), and a skin sensitivity (patch) test is done where required. Example: a beauty therapist at a spa in Oyugi asks every new waxing client about retinoid creams, does a patch test, and only then cleanses and disinfects the area.

Disinfect

Disinfecting the skin reduces the number of micro-organisms on its surface, so bacteria are not pushed into the open follicles during or after hair removal. Although listed first, in practice the skin is cleansed of grease and dirt first and then disinfected, because antiseptic works poorly on oily skin.

• Products: A pre-wax antiseptic lotion or spray, or a skin antiseptic recommended for the purpose (for example one containing chlorhexidine or tea tree), applied with clean cotton wool.
• Avoid irritants: Strong alcohol-based products are avoided on sensitive areas such as the face, underarms and bikini line because they sting and dry the skin.
• Allow to dry: The antiseptic is left to dry completely; wax does not stick to damp skin.
• Therapist hygiene: The therapist washes hands and wears new disposable gloves for each client.
• Equipment: The couch is covered with fresh couch roll, and spatulas and cotton wool are single use.

Cleanse

Cleansing removes surface dirt, make-up, deodorant, body creams, oil and sweat from the area.

• Face: Make-up and cleanser are removed from the brows or upper lip with a gentle cleanser and damp cotton wool.
• Body: Legs, arms and underarms are wiped with a pre-wax cleanser; deodorant is fully removed from the underarms.
• Pat dry: The skin is patted, not rubbed, dry with tissue.
• Absorbent powder: A light dusting of purpose-made pre-wax powder (talc-free where possible) on oily or damp skin helps warm wax grip the hair rather than the skin; it is not used under hard wax unless the manufacturer advises it.
• Check hair length: Hair should be about 0.5 to 1 cm for waxing; very long hair is trimmed with scissors, and very short hair means the client returns later.

Preparation checklist

1. Consult and record: Complete the record card, check contra-indications and take signed consent.
2. Patch test: Test wax or depilatory cream on a small area (usually 24 to 48 hours before, for creams) and record the result.
3. Position the client: Make the client comfortable on the couch with the area exposed and clothing protected with tissue.
4. Cleanse: Remove make-up, creams, deodorant and sweat.
5. Disinfect: Apply antiseptic and allow to dry.
6. Assess hair growth: Note the direction of hair growth, which decides how the product is applied and removed.