Waxing Tips for New Moms

Between work, life, and a new baby, it can be hard for any mom to remember to do the little things that keep her feeling beautiful. We chatted with Katherine Goldman, new mom and owner of Stript Wax Bar in California, who gave us her tips for waxing during and after pregnancy so you can go bare with confidence!

Real Beauty: Is it safe to wax during pregnancy?

Katherine Goldman: It is safe. Actually I just had a son, and I did my own Brazilians up until delivery—I was still waxing until the end!

Will an esthetician be okay with waxing a woman who's far along in her pregnancy?

KG: Of course! Estheticians are trained to work on the body, and we are very used to seeing pregnant women. You don't have to stop you're beauty routine when you're pregnant, and we understand that. It is important for us to know when a woman is expecting, so if you're not showing yet, be sure and tell your esthetician you're pregnant. We don't use anything with Vitamin A or Glycolic Acid on pregnant women, and these are in some of the products we use.

Is waxing more painful during pregnancy?

KG: The hormones can affect people differently, but for me, it was not painful. I would suggest asking your esthetician to test a small area first before committing to a full wax. Also—and this applies to everyone, including pregnant women—drinking coffee or tea before the appointment can sometimes increase pain, so try to avoid those if possible.

We hear that you can sometimes grow extra hair during pregnancy on places like your nipples or belly. Can you wax these?

KG: It definitely happens. The extra hair growth is caused by a surge of hormones women experience during pregnancy, so the hair growth should stop after you have your baby. If you want to get rid of the hair, waxing is the best choice. Sometimes you can't shave in certain areas when you get far along. Additionally, I recommend staying away from lasers if you're pregnant.

What are some pre-waxing and post-waxing rituals that are helpful?

KG: Many people find that a pain reliever like Tylenol helps. Exfoliating is great as well. There are a lot of different types of exfoliators out there, and there are even body scrubs designed and geared toward pregnancy. Make sure all the dead skin cells are lifted off the surface—the hair won't be trapped, and you'll get a better wax. I recommend exfoliating a few days before and after your wax. A dab of Neosporin is also sometimes helpful to prevent bacteria.

What should you watch out for when trying a new salon?

KG: Cleanliness is on everyone's mind right now. The biggest "no-no" is double dipping a stick, that's reusing a stick to wax the same person. They should never be putting the same stick that they used on someone back into the wax.

How long after giving birth should you wait before waxing again?

KG: You should go to your postpartum check up first and be sure to tell the doctor you’d like to start waxing again. Once you have the okay, you’re good to go.

What are some things a new mom or a mom-to-be can do to feel beautiful?

KG: I know new mothers are taking care of their new baby, but take some time for yourself. Do those little things—those little rituals that make you feel beautiful—so you can feel like yourself again. I always say if you're happy and you feel good, you make others feel good.