Prep Like a Pro

Whether it’s your first time or you’re a DIY pro, proper prep is key for getting the best possible results. “Because the skin on the legs is thicker, it can be prone to ingrown hairs,” says Sele. “Use a physical exfoliant like a loofah or sponge to lift any hair trapped under the skin.” She recommends skipping any oil-based body scrubs, which will make it tough for wax to adhere to your leg hair, as well as your morning macchiato: Caffeine can contribute to more sensitive skin, making the process a little less comfortable.

Before you start, make sure you have something to work with. “Allow the hair to grow to ¾ inches or more in length, so there is more to grab onto with the wax,” Sele says. “At a salon, a highly skilled esthetician will be able to wax shorter hair—but this is key for at-home waxing success.”

4 Steps to Smooth

DIY-waxing newbies, don’t worry: “Technique and application are really important for at-home waxing success—it’s a skill,” Sele says. “Practice makes perfect.” She recommends having all of your tools set out and within reach so you don’t have to risk moving around with hot wax on your skin.

1. Wax should tug on the hair, not your skin. So, “First, apply powder to create a barrier to absorb the skin’s oils so the wax will adhere well to the hair,” says Sele. Baby powder will do the trick.

2. Then, take it slow. “When applying wax, a little goes a long way,” she says. “A thin layer is best.”

3. Next, “To avoid breaking the hair and be more successful at pulling it out by its root, pay attention to your hair growth,” she advises. Apply wax in the direction of the hair growth.

4. Finally, pull the strip in the opposite direction of hair growth, keeping the movement parallel to skin—think away, not up.

Comfort and Cool Your Skin

Once you let ’em rip, take a second to comfort your skin. It’s worth it for the best results, says Sele. “You’ll likely break some hairs, so it’s super important to heal and hydrate the skin—and keep in-growns at bay—with products geared towards waxing,” she explains. “This should be intuitive, but avoid shaving any stragglers; instead, use well-sanitized tweezers to pluck remaining hairs.”

Sele also recommends skipping moisturizing lotions for the first 12 hours, and avoiding physical activity and sunbathing for the next 24 hours, since these can lead to irritation. (Pro tip: Don’t wait until you’re about to head to the beach to wax your legs.)

Once you hit three days post-wax, start exfoliating with a chemical exfoliant, such as lactic or glycolic acids. “It will help prevent ingrown hairs, bumps, and discoloration by removing dead skin cells that can clog hair follicles—all while improving the skin’s texture, says Sele. Try AMELIORATE Smoothing Body Exfoliant, which features alpha hydroxy acids to smooth and brighten skin, or CANE + AUSTIN Face & Body Glycolic Acid Scrub, which features glycolic acid.

Then, you’re all set for a few weeks; on average, a leg wax will last about two or three weeks. (“A salon wax will last longer, as the hair is being pulled from the root,” Sele explains.) After your first several times, it’ll feel like second nature—and you can officially retire your razor from leg duty.

Don’t stop at smooth skin. Take our Beauty Quiz now to get started with the best beauty products for your entire routine. Already an Ipster? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and Twitter @IPSY.

Like this article? Share it with your friends by clicking the icons below!