Hair removal is a trend that has become very common in the recent past. With the presence of modern as well as traditional hair removal techniques, it’s no doubt that people have a wide array of choices to make that are suitable for both men and women. Hair removal techniques used include epilation, waxing, threading, shaving, depilatory creams and the use of Intense Pulsed Light. While all these methods have advantages as well as disadvantages, they work well, with the help of a dermatologist.

However, a major factor affecting hair removal methods used include the use of other beauty products before hair removal, which could interfere with the results as well adversely affect the skin. The use of retinol, for instance, can adversely affect the skin when used prior to waxing.

Retinol

With the constant lookout for perfect skin, many people have turned to retinol, which is quite effective. This is a vitamin A metabolite found in food and also available as a supplement. It’s used to boost collagen hence reducing wrinkles and fine lines, while also improving the skin tone. Its most common use is clearing acne.

While many people may not know this, waxing while using retinol products leads to the exposure of sensitive areas of live skin, which is not only painful but can further harm the skin. Side effects of waxing while using retinol include scarring, severe dryness, irritation, and skin discoloration.

Retinol users should, therefore, use other hair removal methods or stop its use prior to waxing.

Waxing

This is the use of a sticky substance such as wax to remove hair, which works by pulling the hair from the follicle, which grows back in about six weeks.

Types of waxing include

• Strip waxing- Also known as soft waxing, this involves spreading a thin layer of wax over the skin and applying a paper or cloth strip. The strip is then pressed firmly and then pulled quickly against the direction of the hair growth, which removes the wax and the hair. Heated, cold or pre-made strips may be used.
• Stripless waxing- Also referred to as hard waxing, this is the use of wax to remove hair without strips. A thick layer of wax is applied and upon hardening, it’s pulled swiftly against the direction of the hair growth. This method is especially good for people with sensitive skin.

Ever wondered why waxing is preferred over other hair removal methods? Here’s why;

• It can remove large amounts of hair at a go
• It is long-lasting
• It reduces the occurrence of ingrowth hairs

However,

• It is painful
• It is expensive
• Some people may get ingrown hair, minor bleeding and red bumps

Similarities between Retinol and Waxing

• Both are common beauty procedures

Differences between Retinol and Waxing

Definition

Retinol refers to a vitamin A metabolite found in food and also available as a supplement used to boost collagen hence reducing wrinkles and fine lines, while also improving the skin tone. On the other hand, waxing refers to the use of a sticky substance such as wax to remove hair, which works by pulling the hair from the follicle, which grows back in about six weeks.

Retinol vs. Waxing: Comparison Table

Summary of Retinol vs. Waxing

Retinol refers to a vitamin A metabolite found in food and also available as a supplement used to boost collagen hence reducing wrinkles and fine lines, while also improving the skin tone. On the other hand, waxing refers to the use of a sticky substance such as wax to remove hair, which works by pulling the hair from the follicle, which grows back in about six weeks. To prevent harming the skin by waxing while using retinol, a person should not use retinol prior to waxing.

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