Glossary
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | K | L | M | N | O | P | R | S | T | U | V | W
A
After-Wax Oil `[Post-Wax Care]`
A specially formulated oil or lotion designed to soothe the skin, calm redness, and effortlessly remove any lingering wax residue after a service.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: A quality after-wax product is the final touch of luxury for any service. It not only ensures client comfort but also leaves their skin feeling hydrated and perfectly smooth, encouraging them to book their next appointment.
Related Terms: Post-Wax Care, Soothing Cream
Shop the Solution: Pre & Post-Waxing Care Collection, Blue Silk After-Wax Lotion
Allergic Reaction
An immune response to an ingredient, resulting in hives, prolonged redness, or itching. It's different from a temporary, and more common, histamine reaction.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Always perform a patch test on new clients. Using a high-quality, hypoallergenic wax is your best defense to protect sensitive clients and uphold your professional reputation.
→ Learn more: How to Handle Waxing Allergies
Aloe Vera Gel `[Post-Wax Care]`
A natural gel known for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties, often used in post-care products to soothe freshly waxed skin.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Look for post-wax lotions that incorporate soothing ingredients like Aloe. Our Aloe Comfort Pre-Wax Lotion is designed to begin the soothing process even before the service starts.
Shop the Solution: Pre-Wax Lotion Aloe Comfort
Anagen Phase
The active, growing stage of the hair follicle. This is the optimal phase for waxing.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Educating your clients to schedule appointments every 4-6 weeks helps you wax more hair in the anagen phase. This leads to longer-lasting smoothness and finer regrowth, which they will thank you for!
→ Learn more: Our Guide to the Hair Growth Cycle
Application `[Technique]`
The technique of spreading melted wax onto the skin with a spatula, typically in the direction of hair growth.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Proper application pressure and ensuring the wax encapsulates the hair at the base are crucial for a clean lift. Your technique is just as important as the quality of your wax.
Related Terms: Lip (of wax strip), Figure-8 Pattern, Taut, Waxing Direction
Shop the Solution: Wax Sticks & Spatulas
→ Learn more: How to Apply Hard Wax
Arm Wax
A waxing service to remove hair from the full or half-length of the arms.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Arm hair can grow in multiple directions, especially around the elbow. Work in smaller sections and pay close attention to the growth pattern for the cleanest results.
B
Back Wax
A waxing service to remove hair from the entirety of the back, often including the shoulders.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: For large areas like the back, use a flexible wax that allows for larger strips. The Figure-8 application pattern is perfect for efficient and even coverage, maximizing your time.
→ Learn more: The Professional's Guide to Body Waxing
Bikini Wax `[Service]`
A popular waxing service that removes hair from outside the panty line, creating a clean and tidy appearance.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: A bikini wax is often a gateway service for clients new to waxing. Using a gentle, hypoallergenic hard wax for this sensitive area can build trust and turn them into a loyal, long-term member of your WaxFam.
Related Terms: Brazilian Wax, French Wax, Landing Strip
Shop the Solution: Pink Pearl Hypoallergenic Hard Wax
→ Learn more: Bikini vs. Brazilian: Which is Right for Your Client?
Bleeding (Post-Wax)
Also known as pinpoint bleeding, this involves tiny specks of blood that can appear after waxing. It's a normal reaction, especially for first-time clients with coarse hair, indicating the hair was successfully removed from the root.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Reassure your client that this is completely normal. A quick application of a soothing after-wax lotion will calm the area and help the follicles close.
→ Learn more: Explaining Pinpoint Bleeding to Your Clients
Brittle Wax `[Troubleshooting]`
The frustrating issue where hard wax cracks or shatters upon removal. This occurs when the wax is applied too thinly or is left on the skin too long, causing it to lose its essential flexibility.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: To prevent cracking and ensure a flawless service, always apply wax to the thickness of a nickel. A reliable, professional-grade wax with superior elasticity is also key, as it will remain pliable and won't betray you if you leave it on a few seconds too long.
Related Terms: Cracking, Application, Setting Time, Temperature, Polymer
Shop the Solution: Stardust Hard Wax Beads, 5 lb Professional Wax Warmer
Brow Wax `[Service]`
A precise waxing service to shape and define the eyebrows by removing stray hairs.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Precision is everything. Use a smaller facial spatula for maximum control and always map the brow shape before applying any wax to ensure perfect, symmetrical results for your client.
Related Terms: Eyebrow Shaping, Eyebrow Threading
Shop the Solution: Angled Eyebrow Wax Sticks
→ Learn more: The Ultimate Guide to Eyebrow Waxing
Bumps (Post-Wax)
Small red bumps that appear on the skin after waxing, which can be caused by various factors including folliculitis, histamine reactions, or ingrown hairs.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Proper pre- and post-care is your best strategy. Ensure the skin is cleansed before the service, and advise clients to avoid tight clothing, excessive sweat, and exfoliation for the first 24 hours.
→ Learn more: How to Deal with Rashes and Bumps After Waxing
C
Catagen Phase
The transitional phase of the hair growth cycle where the hair detaches from the follicle and growth stops.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Hair waxed in this phase will reappear sooner than hair waxed in the Anagen phase. This is a great educational point for clients wondering why some regrowth seems to happen faster than others.
Chin Wax
A waxing service to remove unwanted hair from the chin area.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Chin hairs can be coarse and stubborn. Ensure your wax is at the optimal temperature to properly grip the hair, and have your tweezers ready for any resilient stragglers.
→ Learn more: Professional Face Waxing Guide
Contraindications
Specific conditions that make waxing a potentially harmful procedure for a client. This includes the use of certain medications (like retinoids), sunburn, or specific skin disorders.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: A thorough client consultation form is non-negotiable. It protects both your client and your business, establishing you as a true professional who prioritizes safety above all else.
Cross-Contamination
The spread of bacteria between clients or from a surface to a client, most commonly associated with the unsanitary practice of double-dipping.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Upholding the highest standards of hygiene is the cornerstone of a professional waxing business. Always use a new spatula for each dip into the wax pot to ensure client safety and trust.
Related Terms: Double-Dipping, Sanitization
Shop the Solution: Disposable Wax Sticks, Gloves for Waxing
D
Depilation
The removal of hair at the skin's surface. Shaving is the most common form of depilation.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: It's helpful to know the difference: our work is Epilation (removing hair from the root), which provides much longer-lasting results than depilation.
Dermaplaning
A skincare treatment where an esthetician uses a surgical scalpel to gently scrape away dead skin cells and vellus hair (peach fuzz) from the face.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: While dermaplaning offers exfoliation, facial waxing is often better for removing coarser hairs and can provide longer-lasting hair-free results.
Double-Dipping
The highly unsanitary practice of re-dipping a used waxing spatula back into the main wax pot after it has made contact with a client's skin.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Never double-dip. Ever. This is a cardinal rule of professional sanitation that protects your clients and your reputation. Always use a fresh stick for every single application.
Related Terms: Cross-Contamination, Sanitization
Shop the Solution: Waxing Supplies
E
Epilation
The removal of the entire hair shaft from below the skin's surface, at the root. Waxing is a form of epilation.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: This is our craft! The goal of a perfect wax is successful epilation, which is why clients enjoy weeks of smoothness compared to the daily stubble from depilation methods like shaving.
Esthetician
A licensed skincare professional trained in various cosmetic skin treatments, including waxing.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: As estheticians, we are more than just "waxers"—we are trusted professionals dedicated to our clients' skin health and confidence. Continuing education and using quality products are what set us apart.
→ Learn more: How to Become an Esthetician
Exfoliation `[Pre & Post-Wax Care]`
The process of removing dead skin cells from the skin's surface, either chemically or physically.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Proper exfoliation is the number one key to preventing ingrown hairs. Advise your clients to gently exfoliate 2-3 times a week, but to always skip it for the 24 hours immediately before and after their appointment.
Related Terms: Ingrown Hair, Post-Wax Care
Shop the Solution: Exfoliating Gloves
→ Learn more: Should You Exfoliate Before Waxing?
F
Face Wax
A general term for waxing services on the face, which can include the eyebrows, upper lip, chin, and sideburns.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Facial skin is delicate. Always use a high-quality hypoallergenic wax formulated for sensitive skin to prevent irritation and ensure your clients leave with a smooth, calm complexion.
Shop the Solution: Orchid Hypoallergenic Hard Wax
→ Learn more: The Professional Guide to Face Waxing
Follicle
The small, tube-like cavity in the skin from which a hair shaft grows.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: A successful wax removes the hair directly from the follicle. After the service, the follicle is open, which is why proper post-wax care is essential to keep the area clean and prevent bacteria from entering.
Folliculitis `[Troubleshooting]`
A common skin condition involving the inflammation of hair follicles, often appearing as small, pimple-like bumps after waxing, typically caused by bacteria.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: This is highly preventable with proper hygiene. Ensure you thoroughly cleanse the skin before waxing, and instruct clients on aftercare, like avoiding pools, hot tubs, and intense workouts for 24 hours.
Related Terms: Bumps (Post-Wax), Pustule, Sanitization
Shop the Solution: Pre-Wax Lime Mousse
→ Learn more: How to Prevent Folliculitis After Waxing
French Wax
A type of bikini wax that removes more hair than a standard bikini wax but less than a Brazilian, typically leaving a small vertical strip or triangle on the front and removing hair from the labia, but not the back (anal) area.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: This is a great upsell for clients who want more than a basic bikini cleanup but aren't ready for a full Brazilian. Clear communication is key to ensuring you and your client agree on the desired result.
→ Learn more: French vs. Brazilian Wax Explained
G
Gloves `[Tool]`
Disposable gloves are an essential piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) for any waxing service, ensuring hygiene and safety for both the esthetician and the client.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Always wear gloves, and change them between clients without fail. It's a non-negotiable standard that signals your professionalism and commitment to sanitation.
Shop the Solution: Gloves for Waxing
H
Hair Growth Cycle
The three distinct stages of hair growth and shedding: the Anagen (growing), Catagen (transitional), and Telogen (resting) phases.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Understanding this cycle helps you manage client expectations about regrowth. Consistent waxing helps sync the hair growth cycles, leading to more uniform and longer-lasting results over time.
→ Learn more: Hair Growth Guide for Estheticians
Hard Wax `[Product]`
A type of depilatory wax that is applied warm, hardens as it cools, and is removed without the need for a strip. It works by "shrink-wrapping" and gripping the hair, not the skin.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: As hard wax specialists, we know its benefits are unmatched for sensitive areas and coarse hair. Using a high-quality, flexible hard wax is the key to providing a less painful, more effective service that keeps clients coming back.
Related Terms: Stripless Wax, Polymer, Soft Wax
Shop the Solution: Hard Wax Collection
→ Learn more: What is Hard Wax?
Histamine Reaction
A common, temporary skin reaction to the trauma of hair being pulled from the follicle, which may appear as small red bumps, welts, or general redness immediately after waxing.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: This reaction is normal and usually subsides within a few hours. Reassure your client and apply a calming post-wax lotion to help the skin quickly.
Hypoallergenic
A term for products formulated to minimize the risk of causing an allergic reaction, typically by avoiding common allergens like fragrances, dyes, and sometimes rosin.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Keeping a hypoallergenic wax on hand is essential for serving clients with sensitive skin. It's a mark of a professional who is prepared for every skin type.
Shop the Solution: Pink Pearl Hypoallergenic Wax, Orchid Hypoallergenic Wax
→ Learn more: The Science of Hypoallergenic Ingredients
I
Ingrown Hair `[Troubleshooting]`
A hair that has grown back into the skin instead of up and out of the follicle, often causing an inflamed, red bump.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: This is one of the most common client complaints. The solution is twofold: proper waxing technique to prevent hair breakage, and client education on regular, gentle exfoliation between appointments.
Related Terms: Exfoliation, Folliculitis, Ingrown Hair Cyst
Shop the Solution: Ingrown Hair Lotion, Exfoliating Gloves
→ Learn more: How to Treat Ingrown Hairs
K
Keratin
The fibrous structural protein that is the key building block of hair, skin, and nails.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: The hair we wax is primarily made of keratin. Healthy skin and hair are interconnected, which is why pre- and post-wax care is so vital to the overall service.
Keratosis Pilaris
A common skin condition that causes patches of rough, tiny bumps on the skin, often on the upper arms and thighs. It's caused by a buildup of keratin that plugs hair follicles.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Clients with KP can benefit greatly from waxing, as it removes the hair and provides some exfoliation. Advise them on a consistent post-wax routine with gentle exfoliation and hydration to manage the condition.
L
Landing Strip
A popular style of bikini or Brazilian wax where most of the pubic hair is removed, leaving only a thin, rectangular strip of hair on the front.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Use the edge of your spatula to create clean, crisp lines for the strip before applying the wax. This precision is what creates a polished, professional result.
Leg Wax
A service to remove hair from either the full leg (ankles to upper thighs) or half leg (ankles to just above the knee).
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Efficiency is key for leg waxing. Using a larger spatula and applying longer strips can make the service faster, but always remember to work in manageable sections to maintain control and client comfort.
→ Learn more: How to Perform a Professional Leg Wax
Lifting (Skin) `[Troubleshooting]`
An injury where the top layer of skin (epidermis) is torn away during a waxing service. It can be caused by improper technique, client contraindications, or using the wrong type of wax.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: This is a serious concern that is entirely preventable. Always hold the skin taut, perform a thorough consultation, and use a high-quality hard wax, which adheres to the hair and not the skin, especially on delicate areas.
→ Learn more: Understanding and Preventing Skin Damage
Lip (of wax strip)
The small, thickened edge intentionally created at the end of a hard wax strip to provide a clean, easy-to-grip handle for removal.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Mastering the lip is a fundamental technique. A well-formed lip ensures a quick, less painful pull and prevents you from having to pick at the wax, keeping your service professional and hygienic.
Lip Wax
A service to remove unwanted hair from the upper lip area.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: The upper lip is a sensitive area. Work in two separate sections from the outer corner to the center (Cupid's bow) to ensure client comfort and to pull opposite the direction of hair growth.
M
Male Brazilian Wax `[Service]`
A waxing service for men that involves the complete removal of hair from the pubic region, including the penis, scrotum, and anal area. Also known as a Manzilian.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Male waxing is a rapidly growing market. Specialized training is essential to ensure you are confident with the proper techniques for client comfort, safety, and achieving excellent results.
Related Terms: Manzilian Wax
→ Learn more: An Introduction to Male Waxing
Manzilian Wax
A colloquial term for a male Brazilian wax.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Male hair is often very coarse. Using a highly elastic and powerful hard wax is crucial for gripping these hairs effectively without becoming brittle.
Shop the Solution: Stardust Hard Wax for Coarse Hair
→ Learn more: The Professional's Guide to Manzilian Waxing
N
Nose Waxing
A service that removes hair from just inside the rim of the nostrils. Only the visible hairs should be removed.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Use a small, rounded applicator stick specifically designed for nose waxing. Never insert the applicator too deep—the goal is to remove only the hairs that are easily visible at the edge of the nostril.
Numbing Cream
A topical anesthetic cream that can be applied to the skin before waxing to help dull the sensation and reduce pain.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: While some clients ask about this, be aware that numbing creams can interfere with the wax's ability to grip the hair and may cause skin reactions. A high-quality hard wax and expert technique are often more effective for minimizing pain.
O
Oily Skin
A skin type characterized by excess sebum production, which can make it difficult for wax to adhere properly.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: For oily-skinned clients, proper skin prep is non-negotiable. Use a pre-wax cleanser to remove surface oils, and consider a light dusting of cosmetic powder to ensure the area is completely dry before application.
Shop the Solution: Cosmetic Talc Silk Soft, Pre-Wax Lime Mousse
P
Painless Waxing
A term describing a waxing experience where discomfort is minimized as much as possible. While no wax is completely pain-free, technique and product quality can dramatically reduce pain.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: This is what we all strive for! The formula is simple: a premium hard wax that grips hair, not skin + proper pre-wax prep + confident technique (especially holding skin taut).
Patch Test
The practice of applying a small amount of wax to a discreet area of a client's skin 24-48 hours before their first appointment to test for any adverse reactions.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Offering a complimentary patch test during consultation is a sign of a true professional. It shows you prioritize client safety and can prevent serious reactions.
Polymer `[Ingredient]`
The key synthetic ingredient in modern, high-quality hard waxes that provides its signature flexibility, elasticity, and low-temperature melting point.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Polymer-based waxes are the professional standard. They are less brittle than natural-resin waxes, allowing for a more pliable application and a cleaner removal that is much gentler on the skin.
Shop the Solution: Hard Wax Collection
Post-Wax Care
The essential instructions and products recommended for use in the 24-48 hours following a waxing service to ensure the skin heals properly and to prevent issues like bumps and irritation.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Your service doesn't end when the client leaves. Providing clear aftercare instructions is crucial for great results. It empowers your clients to maintain their smooth skin and reinforces your expertise.
Shop the Solution: Pre & Post-Waxing Care Collection
→ Learn more: The Ultimate Waxing Aftercare Guide
Pre-Epilation Oil `[Pre-Wax Care]`
A very light, protective oil applied to the skin *before* hard wax. It creates a barrier so the wax adheres only to the hair, not the skin, drastically reducing pain and irritation.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: A quality pre-epilation oil is a game-changer, especially for intimate waxing services. Use it sparingly—a little goes a long way to ensure client comfort.
Shop the Solution: Orchid Renewal Pre-Wax Oil
Pre-Wax Cleanser
A professional product used to cleanse the skin of oils, makeup, and impurities before waxing to ensure the best possible adhesion and a hygienic service.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Never skip the pre-wax cleanse! It's the first step in every professional service for a reason—it preps the canvas for a flawless application and helps prevent post-wax breakouts.
Shop the Solution: Pre-Wax Lime Mousse, Pre-Wax Lotion Aloe Comfort
Pustule
A small, inflamed, pus-filled bump on the skin. If these appear after waxing, it is often a sign of folliculitis.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Advise clients never to pick or pop these bumps. Instead, they should keep the area clean and can apply a targeted ingrown hair treatment to help soothe the inflammation.
R
Rash (Post-Wax)
A general term for any skin irritation that occurs after waxing, which could be a histamine reaction, folliculitis, or contact dermatitis.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Identifying the type of rash is key to recommending the right solution. Most post-wax redness is temporary, but if bumps persist, it's likely folliculitis or ingrown hairs that need specific care.
→ Learn more: How to Handle a Rash After Waxing
Razor Bumps
Irritated bumps that appear after shaving, caused by hair curling back into the skin and becoming ingrown. It is a form of folliculitis.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Many clients seek out waxing as a solution to chronic razor bumps. This is a major selling point for our services, as waxing removes hair from the root, leading to less irritation and fewer ingrowns over time.
→ Learn more: Shaving vs. Waxing: A Professional's Take
Redness
A normal and temporary inflammatory response of the skin (Erythema) immediately following a waxing service.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: While some redness is expected, using a gentle wax and applying a calming post-wax lotion can significantly reduce its appearance and duration, ensuring your clients leave feeling confident.
Shop the Solution: Blue Silk After-Wax Lotion
Roll-On Wax
A type of soft wax housed in a cartridge with a roller head for quick application, primarily used for large body areas like legs and arms.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: While roll-ons are fast, hard wax often provides a more precise and less irritating experience, especially for clients with sensitive skin or for use on more delicate areas.
Rosin
A natural resin derived from pine trees, traditionally used as the base ingredient in many waxes for its adhesive properties. It can be a common allergen for some individuals.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Many modern, high-quality waxes are formulated with synthetic polymers instead of rosin to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and create a more flexible product.
S
Sanitization
The process of cleaning and disinfecting tools, equipment, and surfaces to eliminate bacteria and ensure a hygienic environment for every client service.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Your sanitation practices are a direct reflection of your professionalism. Never compromise on hygiene—it builds client trust and is essential for a safe and successful business.
→ Learn more: Hygiene & Sanitation Standards for Salons
Sensitive Skin
A skin type that is more prone to reactions like redness, itching, and irritation.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Catering to sensitive skin is a must in today's market. Always have a premium hypoallergenic hard wax in your toolkit. It will become your go-to for providing a comfortable service for even the most delicate clients.
Shop the Solution: Pink Pearl Hypoallergenic Hard Wax, White Raw Fragrance-Free Hard Wax
→ Learn more: Choosing the Best Hard Wax for Sensitive Skin
Setting Time
The period required for applied hard wax to cool and harden (set) sufficiently for effective removal.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: The right setting time varies by formula. A "speed waxing" wax will set faster for quick removal on large areas, while a more pliable wax might have a slower setting time, ideal for intricate areas.
Shaving
A method of depilation that cuts hair at the skin's surface, resulting in rapid, often prickly, regrowth.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Clients looking to switch from shaving are your ideal audience. Educate them on the benefits: longer-lasting results, finer regrowth over time, and fewer ingrown hairs compared to shaving.
→ Learn more: Shaving vs. Waxing: Why Wax is Superior
Shrink-Wrap Effect
The unique way high-quality hard wax encapsulates and grips the hair shaft as it cools and hardens, allowing for effective removal from the root with minimal pull on the skin.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: This is the science behind why hard wax is so much more comfortable for clients. It's the ultimate selling point for your hard wax services—it's effective on hair, gentle on skin.
Soft Wax `[Product]`
A type of wax that remains tacky and requires a cloth or paper strip for removal. It adheres to both the skin and the hair.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: While soft wax can be efficient for large, non-sensitive areas, hard wax is the professional choice for delicate areas like the face, underarms, and bikini line due to its gentle, skin-friendly properties.
Related Terms: Hard Wax, Wax Strips
→ Learn more: Hard Wax vs. Soft Wax: A Professional's Comparison
Spatula
The tool, typically made of wood for disposability, used to scoop and apply melted wax to the skin.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: The right spatula can make a huge difference. Use larger sizes for body areas and smaller, more precise spatulas for facial and brow waxing to maintain ultimate control.
Shop the Solution: Wax Sticks & Spatulas
Stripless Wax
A synonym for Hard Wax, so-named because it does not require a cloth or paper strip for removal.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Using "stripless" can be a great marketing term for clients who are unfamiliar with hard wax, as it clearly communicates a key benefit.
Sugaring
A method of epilation using a paste made from sugar, lemon juice, and water. The paste is applied against the direction of hair growth and removed in the direction of growth.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: While sugaring is a great natural option, many estheticians find that hard wax is more effective at gripping very coarse or short hairs, often resulting in a smoother finish in a single pass.
→ Learn more: Sugaring vs. Waxing: Which is Better for Your Salon?
T
Taut
Pulling the skin tight and firm in the opposite direction of the wax pull. This is one of the most critical steps for a clean, safe, and less painful wax removal.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Master this technique until it's second nature. A perfectly taut stretch is what prevents bruising and skin lifting, ensuring a professional and comfortable experience for every client.
Telogen Phase
The resting phase of the hair growth cycle, at the end of which the hair is shed from the follicle.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Hairs in the telogen phase are already close to shedding, so waxing them offers little benefit in terms of longevity. This is another great reason to encourage consistent appointments to target hairs in the Anagen phase.
Temperature
The specific heat at which wax should be maintained for safe and effective application. For hard wax, this is typically a low temperature resulting in a thick, honey-like consistency.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Never trust a wax warmer without an adjustable temperature dial. Maintaining the correct working temperature is crucial for the wax to perform correctly and, most importantly, for the safety of your client's skin.
Related Terms: Wax Warmer, Consistency
Shop the Solution: Professional Wax Warmers
→ Learn more: What is the Ideal Hard Wax Temperature?
Terminal Hair
Thick, coarse, and pigmented hair, such as that found in the underarm and pubic areas.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Hard wax is the superior choice for removing terminal hair. Its ability to shrink-wrap each coarse hair provides the leverage needed for a clean removal from the root.
Titanium Dioxide
An ingredient used in "cream wax" formulas. It acts as a buffer, making the wax gentler, less irritating, and more suitable for delicate and sensitive skin types.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Waxes containing Titanium Dioxide are excellent for facial waxing or for clients who are prone to redness, providing an extra layer of comfort.
Tweezing
Removing stray hairs one at a time with tweezers. It is often used as a finishing step after a waxing service for ultimate precision.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: A quick, precise tweeze to catch any tiny hairs your wax may have missed is the final step that elevates a good service to a perfect one.
U
Underarm Wax
A service to remove all hair from the underarm area.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Underarm hair often grows in multiple directions. It's best to work in two or more smaller sections to ensure you are always pulling opposite the direction of growth for a clean, comfortable removal.
→ Learn more: Guide to Underarm Waxing
Upper Lip Wax
A service to remove unwanted hair from the upper lip area.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: This is a quick service but requires precision. Always have the client stretch their upper lip by tucking it over their teeth to create a taut, firm surface for application.
V
Vajacial
A cosmetic treatment for the bikini area, essentially a "facial" for the vulva. It treats ingrown hairs, removes dead skin cells, and helps with hyperpigmentation.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Offering a vajacial as an add-on service to a Brazilian wax is an excellent way to boost revenue and address common client concerns like ingrown hairs and skin texture.
→ Learn more: What is a Vajacial?
Vegan Wax
A wax formula that contains no animal-derived ingredients, such as beeswax.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Having a vegan option is a great way to cater to the values of all clients. Many modern, high-quality polymer waxes are vegan by default.
Vellus Hair
The fine, soft, translucent hair, also known as "peach fuzz," found on the face and body.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Hard wax can effectively remove vellus hair, leaving the skin with an incredibly smooth finish that helps makeup apply flawlessly. This is a great selling point for full face waxing.
W
Wax Beans / Beads `[Product]`
The small, pellet-like form of modern hard wax that allows for easy, measurable, and quick melting in a wax warmer.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Using beads allows you to easily refill your pot as needed during a busy day without having to wait for a large block of wax to melt, ensuring your warmer is always ready for the next client.
Shop the Solution: Hard Wax Beads Collection
Wax Burn `[Troubleshooting]`
A skin burn caused by wax that was heated to an unsafe, excessive temperature. This is a serious issue that is entirely preventable with professional equipment and proper testing.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: Always use a professional wax warmer with an adjustable temperature control and *always* test the wax temperature on your own wrist before applying it to a client.
Related Terms: Temperature, Wax Warmer
→ Learn more: Preventing Skin Damage During Waxing
Wax Warmer `[Tool]`
An electrical appliance designed to melt wax beads and maintain them at a specific, controlled temperature for safe and effective use.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: A reliable, professional-grade warmer is the most important investment you can make for your business. It ensures the safety of your clients and the consistent performance of your wax.
Related Terms: Temperature, Wax Pot, Waxing Machine
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→ Learn more: Benefits of Using a Professional Wax Machine
Waxing
A method of semi-permanent hair removal (epilation) that removes hair from the root using a wax-based substance.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: We provide more than just a service; we provide confidence. Each waxing treatment is an opportunity to help a client feel their best.
Waxing Kit `[Product]`
A curated set that typically includes a wax warmer, hard wax beads, applicators, and pre/post care products, designed for a complete waxing service.
Pro Tip for the WaxFam: A professional kit is the perfect way for new estheticians to start their business with all the reliable tools they need, ensuring quality and consistency from their very first client.
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