Ingrown hairs might be tiny, but they can cause big frustration, especially after a fresh wax. While waxing removes hair from the root for smooth, long-lasting results, proper aftercare is the key to keeping those little troublemakers away.
Whether you're new to at-home waxing or already in love with your neuBuff routine, this guide breaks down exactly how to prevent ingrown hairs so your skin stays smooth, bump-free, and glowing.
First, What Is an Ingrown Hair?
An ingrown hair happens when a new hair grows back into the skin instead of upward through the follicle. This can create:
-
Tiny red bumps
-
Tenderness
-
Dark spots
-
Itching or irritation
Waxing actually helps reduce ingrown hairs long-term by removing hair from the root—but only if you support your skin the right way after each session.
Step 1: Prep Your Skin Before Waxing
Great results start before the wax even melts. To reduce the chance of ingrowns, make sure your skin is ready.
✔ Exfoliate 24 hours before waxing
Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating glove to remove dead skin cells. This clears the path for the hair to slide out easily during waxing.
✔ Cleanse thoroughly
Oil, sweat, and lotion can block hair follicles and lead to irritation. Start with clean, dry skin for your best wax.
✔ Keep hair at the perfect length
About ¼ inch (≈6 mm) is ideal. Too short = wax can't grip. Too long = more tugging.
Step 2: Wax the Right Way (Technique Matters!)
Your technique can make a huge difference in preventing ingrowns.
✔ Apply wax with the direction of growth
This helps the hair lift cleanly from the follicle.
✔ Remove wax against the direction of growth
A quick, confident pull keeps the follicle clear and reduces the chance of hair curling back.
✔ Keep the skin taut
Especially on sensitive areas—this ensures a cleaner hair removal and less irritation.
✔ Don’t over-wax
One pass per area is usually enough. Repeated waxing on irritated skin can cause inflammation that traps hair.
Step 3: Soothe & Protect After Waxing
Your skin is more sensitive immediately after waxing, so gentle aftercare is everything.
✔ Calm the skin right away
Use aloe vera, chamomile gel, or a fragrance-free moisturizer. neuBuff users love applying a light cooling gel to help the skin settle quickly.
✔ Avoid heat, sweat, and friction for 24–48 hours
This includes:
-
Hot showers
-
Saunas
-
Intense workouts
-
Tight clothing
These can inflame hair follicles and lead to ingrowns.
✔ Hands off!
Touching freshly waxed skin introduces bacteria that can cause bumps.
Step 4: Exfoliate Regularly Between Waxes
This is the secret to preventing ingrowns long-term.
Start exfoliating 48–72 hours after waxing
Your skin needs a little time to recover first.
Exfoliate 2–3 times per week
Use gentle exfoliation, not anything harsh that can scratch or damage your skin barrier.
Great options include:
-
Exfoliating gloves
-
AHA/BHA toners (like glycolic or salicylic acid)
-
Sugar scrubs
-
Dry brushing
This prevents dead skin buildup, which is one of the biggest culprits behind ingrown hairs.
Step 5: Keep Skin Hydrated Daily
Hydrated skin = healthy skin.
Moisturized skin stays soft, which helps new hair grow outward instead of curling back in.
Use a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer daily. After exfoliating, follow up with moisturizer to keep the skin balanced and smooth.
What If You Already Have an Ingrown Hair?
Don’t pick or squeeze! This can cause scarring or infection.
Instead:
-
Warm compress to soften the skin
-
Gentle exfoliation to help the hair come through
-
If visible, use a clean tweezer to lift only the exposed tip
-
Spot-treat with a salicylic acid or tea tree product to reduce inflammation
If it’s painful, swollen, or doesn’t improve, give the area a break from waxing until it settles.
Waxing With neuBuff = Smoother Skin & Fewer Ingrowns
neuBuff’s coconut-based hard wax grips hair—not skin—helping remove even coarse or stubborn hairs cleanly from the root. That means less breakage and fewer chances of hair curling back beneath the skin.
Pair that with a simple routine of exfoliation, hydration, and smart aftercare, and you’ll enjoy:
-
Smoother skin
-
Longer-lasting results
-
Fewer ingrown hairs
-
A healthier, brighter complexion
Your waxing sessions will be easier, faster, and so much more satisfying.
Make Ingrown Hairs a Thing of the Past
With the right prep, technique, and aftercare, you can keep your skin bump-free and glowing between every neuBuff wax. Treat your skin with consistency, and it will reward you with smoother results every time.
Ready for your smoothest wax yet?
Explore neuBuff kits and take your at-home waxing routine to the next level.