The Best Ingredients for Red Bumps Post Waxing

Megan Dominion

Those of you with sensitive skin can surely relate: having every hair follicle turn red after a wax is not exactly the smooth look you were after. Red bumps or red dots appearring on the skin after waxing is often due to irritation caused by the waxing process. This irritation can cause inflammation, which leads to the appearance of red bumps or red dots. The appearance of these red bumps or dots could also be due to the sensitivity of the area being waxed, or even due to the wax having been applied too harshly.

To help reduce the chances of red bumps or red dots appearing after waxing, you can try swapping out the wax you are currently using with a  high-quality, gentle wax (if you are not using one already). Try being extra gentle when waxing and see if this helps too. Otherwise there are many ingredients that can help soothe the skin after a wax, to minimise the irritation and inflammation caused by your wax. Some of the best ingredients for red bumps or red dots after waxing are:

Womans legs with wax strip

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a great natural remedy for soothing skin after waxing. It helps to reduce the redness and swelling associated with waxing and helps to prevent ingrown hairs.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps to reduce inflammation and redness in the skin. It is also a great way to reduce the pain associated with waxing.

Lavendar Oil

Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory effects and can be used to reduce the irritation caused by waxing. Additionally, lavender oil helps to soothe the skin, making it an ideal choice for treating post-waxing irritation.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and anti-inflammatory that can be applied directly to the skin after waxing. It can help to soothe the skin and reduce redness, as well as prevent ingrown hairs.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is another natural remedy that can help to reduce redness and inflammation after waxing . It is also antibacterial, making it a great choice for preventing infection.

Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E oil is a natural antioxidant that helps to soothe and heal the skin. When applied to the skin post-waxing, it can help to reduce irritation and redness.

woman rubbing oil into her leg

Using oils on your legs can be a great way to moisturize and nourish your skin, as well as minimise the inflammatory effect of waxing. Oils can help keep your skin hydrated, prevent wrinkles and inflammation, and improve your skin’s overall health.

Applying oils to your skin

After waxing it’s a good idea to rinse your legs or waxed area with warm water and a gentle soap. Pat the area dry, and then apply a few drops of oil to your moist skin. Massage the oil into your skin for 30-60 seconds before allowing it to fully absorb. 

Finding what works for you

Everyone’s skin is different and has different levels of sensitivity. If you are experiencing red bumps after waxing, try changing the way you wax, as well as finding products with some of these ingredients in them to help minimise the red dots. Choosing the right oil for your skin can be tricky, so here is a guide to choosing an oil based on your skintype (whether it’s your face or body).

Megan Dominion

Megan Dominion is SILKUP's Managing Editor. She's been down both the curly hair and skincare rabbit holes many times and loves that there's always something new to learn; a new science, method, product or personal experience.