How to Remove Unwanted Body Hair with At-Home Waxing

With beach season just around the corner, you might be thinking about waxing to achieve a hair-free body before summer. Unlike shaving, waxing can leave skin feeling smooth and soft for many weeks, but only if you do it properly, say dermatologists. “At-home waxing can be an affordable method for hair removal, but it’s important to take precautions,” said board-certified dermatologist Jessica J. Krant, MD, FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center. “Never wax sunburned or very sensitive skin, and don’t wax if you have taken isotretinoin in the last six months.Also, it may be a good idea to leave Brazilian waxes to the professionals, since the skin in that area is particularly delicate.”

For the best technique and results, Dr. Krant recommends the following tips:

1. Ensure optimal hair length: Before waxing, make sure your hair is about one-fourth to three-fourths of an inch long. If hair is longer, trim it to a shorter length using safety scissors so that waxing will be less messy and painful.
2. Avoid retinoid creams before waxing: Avoid using over-the-counter skin care products containing retinol and prescription retinoids two to five days prior to waxing your face to avoid removing skin along with your hair. 
3. Reduce discomfort: Since waxing can be painful for some people, consider ways to reduce discomfort. Taking over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, or applying cold packs to the skin about 30 minutes before waxing may help.
4. Wash and dry the area: Before waxing, gently wash the area you’re about to wax to remove dirt, dead skin cells and skin care products. Afterwards, dry your skin thoroughly. Clean, dry skin allows the wax to adhere properly.
5. Warm the wax: Follow the directions on the package, and always test the temperature of the wax by applying a small amount to the inside of your wrist. It should be warm, but not hurt or burn.
6. Apply the wax: Apply the wax to a small section of your skin with unwanted hair. For the best results, always spread the wax in the direction of hair growth.
7. Apply the cloth strip: Once the wax is applied, place the cloth strip over the wax and press down firmly. Leave the cloth on for two to three seconds.
8. Remove the cloth strip: To remove, hold your skin taut with one hand and use your other hand to quickly pull off the cloth in the opposite direction of hair growth. If you’re waxing a tricky spot to reach, such as the underarms, consider asking a friend or relative to help you.
9. Soothe your skin: After waxing, soothe your skin by applying cold packs if you have pain, avoiding hot baths and showers, wearing loose clothing and applying moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. Look for moisturizers labeled “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic.”

“If you follow the instructions, at-home waxing is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted body hair," said Dr. Krant. “However, if you experience redness or swelling after waxing that lasts more than two days, see a board-certified dermatologist.”

These tips are demonstrated in “Hair Removal: How to Wax,” a video posted to the AAD website and YouTube channel. This video is part of the AAD’s “Video of the Month” series, which offers tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair and nails. A new video in the series posts to the AAD website and YouTube channel each month.

VIDEO GALLERY VIDEO GALLERY Hair Removal: How to Wax  Click here for more videos IMAGE GALLERY Click here for more images Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 18,000 physicians worldwide, the AAD is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails.

Dermatologists Offer Tips for Color-Treated Hair

While coloring your hair is a common beauty treatment, the process can leave your hair dry and brittle. Fortunately, dermatologists, who are experts in the care of the skin, hair and nails, offer tips for coloring and perming your hair while keeping it healthy. Coloring and Perming Tips for Healthier-Looking Hair “When dyeing your hair, consider choosing a dye that is darker rather than lighter than your natural color to minimize hair damage,” said board-certified dermatologist Paradi Mirmirani, MD, FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco. “If you choose to go lighter, select a dye within three shades of your natural color as lightening more than three shades requires higher volumes of peroxide, which is harmful to the hair.” Dr. Mirmirani shares more tips for healthy hair when using hair treatments: Test store-bought hair color before using. Follow manufacturer’s instructions. If you develop a rash or redness, swelling, burning or itching, you are having an allergic reaction to the die. Do not dye your hair and consult your dermatologist for further allergy testing. Protect your hair from the sun. The sun can make your hair weak, dry, rough, faded and brittle. This is especially true if you dye, bleach or perm your hair. Wear a wide-brimmed hat when you go outside. Use caution when perming hair to prevent long-lasting damage. Set a timer to know when you should rinse the perm solution. Always follow package instructions. If you experience excessive stinging and burning while the perm solution is on your scalp, wash it off immediately and consult your dermatologist. “A board-certified dermatologist can answer any questions people have about hair damage or unexplained hair loss,” said Dr. Mirmirani. These tips are demonstrated in “Coloring and Perming Tips for Healthier-Looking Hair,” a video posted to the Academy website and the Academy’s YouTube channel. This video is part of the Dermatology A to Z: Video Series, which offers relatable videos that demonstrate tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair and nails. A new video in the series posts to the Academy’s website and YouTube channel each month. # # # Celebrating 75 years of promoting skin, hair and nail health Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 17,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org. Follow the Academy on Facebook (American Academy of Dermatology) or Twitter (@AADskin).

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American Academy of Dermatology Reveals New Beauty Breakthroughs

This information  from the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) features three leading dermatologists’ expert opinions on the newest beauty technologies, ingredients and research, including botanical antioxidants and plant stem cells, cosmetic treatments in people of different skin tones, and the role of diet in acne.

• Growing Evidence Suggests Possible Link Between Diet and Acne
  
  
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Face-Washing Tips for Healthier-Looking Skin from the American Academy of Dermatology

Here are some face washing tips from American Academy of Dermatology. If you are a regular reader of the Skin, Health & Beauty blog, these tips should sound very familiar!


Washing your face is as simple as using soap and water, right? Not quite say dermatologists. How you wash your face can make a difference in your appearance.

Face Washing 101

“It’s important for people to treat the face with care. Never scrub the skin or use harsh products as doing so irritates the skin, which makes skin look worse,” said Thomas E. Rohrer, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in private practice in Chestnut Hill, Mass. 

For healthier-looking skin, Dr. Rohrer recommends people follow these tips to keep their face looking healthy:

1. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser that does not contain harsh alcohol.
2. Wet your face with lukewarm water and use your fingertips to apply cleanser. Using a washcloth, mesh sponge or anything other than your fingertips can irritate your skin.
3. Resist the temptation to scrub your skin as scrubbing irritates the skin.
   
4. Rinse with lukewarm water, and pat dry with a soft towel.
   
5. Apply moisturizer if your skin is dry or itchy. Be gentle when applying any cream around your eyes so you do not pull too hard on this delicate skin.
6. Limit washing to twice a day and after sweating. Wash your face once in the morning and once at night as well as after sweating heavily. Perspiration, especially when wearing a hat or helmet, irritates the skin. Wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating.

“A board-certified dermatologist can answer your questions about how to care for your skin, hair and nails,” said Dr. Rohrer.

In recognition of November as National Healthy Skin Month, these steps are demonstrated in “Face Washing 101,” a video posted to the Academy website and the Academy’s YouTube channel. This video is part of the Dermatology A to Z: Video Series, which offers relatable videos that demonstrate tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair and nails. A new video in the series posts to the Academy website and the YouTube channel each month.

# # #

Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 17,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org. Follow the Academy on Facebook (American Academy of Dermatology) or Twitter (@AADskin).

What is the the American Academy of Dermatology? | Skin Health Beauty

What is the the American Academy of Dermatology

The American Academy of Dermatology (also “Academy” and “AAD”), was  founded in 1938 and is headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill.. The Academy is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. The AAD has a membership of17,000 dermatologists in the United States, Canada, and around the world.

Ad: AAD: upward trend in skin cancer incidence continues.(SKIN DISORDERS)(American Academy of Dermatology)(Report): An article from: Family Practice News

Find out more about the AAD at: What is the the American Academy of Dermatology? | Skin Health Beauty

Seven ways to reduce signs of aging from American Academy of Dermatology - National Skin Care Examiner

Seven ways to reduce signs of aging from American Academy of Dermatology

The American Academy of Dermatology has put together a list of seven ways to reduce signs of aging from board-certified dermatologist Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, founding director of the Skin of Color Center at St. Luke’s and Roosevelt Hospitals in New York City. These tips can prevent sun-damaged skin and produce healthy skin.

Article at: Seven ways to reduce signs of aging from American Academy of Dermatology - National Skin Care Examiner

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American Academy of Dermatology offers tips on hair care - Nashville Skin, Health & Beauty Examiner

American Academy of Dermatology offers tips on hair care

The American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) says how you wash your hair and the hair care products you chose have a direct bearing on the condition of your hair. Dermatologist Zoe D. Draelos, MD, FAAD says that shampooing should be aimed at the scalp and conditioner at the tips of the hair.

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If you have a question about skin or hair care, write me at skin_and_health@yahoo.com

Get the Most from Your Skin Care Products Says American Academy of Dermatology | Skin Health Beauty

 The American Academy of Dermatology released a press release in June that said in part:

Dermatologists say the sequence in which you apply skin care products influences their effectiveness – American Academy of Dermatology

Consumers often spend hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars a year on skin care products in an effort to improve the look of their skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. From anti-aging serums to acne medications, many adults and teens regularly apply medications or treatments to their skin. But does the sequence in which skin care products are applied influence how well the products work? Dermatologists say yes.

Find out more about what the American Academy of Dermatology has to say about skin care at: Get the Most from Your Skin Care Products Says American Academy of Dermatology | Skin Health Beauty: