5 Tips on How to Close Pores After Waxing

There’s nothing like the smooth, silky feel of your skin after a fresh wax. However, waxing doesn’t just remove hair from the follicle—it also removes a layer of dead skin. Now, while your pores don’t technically open or close, they are left somewhat expanded for the first 24 hours after waxing, making them more vulnerable to ingrown hairs (ouch) and breakouts (no thank you).

“Closing” your pores after a wax (by keeping them clean and encouraging them to contract) keeps your skin healthy and smooth, and it can be done in five easy steps. Follow this post-waxing playbook for the top five tips on closing your pores and maintaining that fresh glow after a wax.

1. Apply a Cold Compress

Right after your wax, apply a cool compress to the area. Gently press a washcloth or microfiber cloth to your smooth skin to calm it down and provide relief. You can also use a cooling gel or aloe vera instead of a cloth.

Pro tip: Put a clean washcloth or aloe in the fridge before you leave for your wax so it’s ready to use when you return. Your skin will thank you!

2. Clean the Area & Avoid Hot Water

You should avoid touching the waxed area for 24 hours post-wax (the oil from your hands can introduce bacteria), but you can cleanse the area with lukewarm water and a gentle, film-free soap or body wash to keep the area clean while your pores close. Avoid overly scented products or anything that might cause a skin reaction, and steer clear of hot water.

If you’re a bath fan, put your soak on hold and take a shower instead. Sitting in hot water may irritate your newly sensitive skin.

3. Use Serum & Moisturizer

Once you’ve cleaned the area, apply a treatment serum like EWC TREAT® Ingrown Hair Serum. It’s formulated with glycolic acid for gentle exfoliation, along with chamomile and vitamin E to soothe (and smooth!) your skin.

Next, apply a soothing moisturizer to calm your skin even more. Choose a product containing aloe vera, like EWC SLOW® Aloe Body Lotion, and apply it whenever your skin feels dry.

Opt for a moisturizer on the lighter side—with minimal oil—for a comfortable way to minimize irritation for several days after a wax.

4. Avoid Abrasive Products and Clothing

Exfoliating before waxing is a great way to remove dry skin and make your unwanted hair more accessible for removal. However, exfoliating right after a wax isn't a good idea if you’re trying to close your pores (at least for a few days while your skin recovers). Besides, waxing naturally exfoliates your skin, so you don’t want to overdo it.

Avoid tight clothing or rough textures after a wax. The friction could further irritate your skin, making your pores stay open longer and introducing fresh skin to the possibility of rashes.

5. Stay Hydrated

Any skin expert will tell you that one of the best things you can do for your skin is to drink water, and this is especially true after a wax. Down some H2O right away, and keep refilling your favorite water bottle for maximum hydration during the post-wax period. This will help keep your skin supple and hydrated until your pores close to lock all that hydration in.

What Should You Avoid After a Wax?

Now you know what to do right after a wax, but what shouldn’t you do? Try to avoid these activities for 24-48 hours after a wax so you don't invite bacteria, irritation, and ingrown hairs into your newly smooth skin:

Swimming in a pool - The chlorine can dry out and irritate your skin, not to mention the risk of infection from bacteria in the pool.
Sitting in a hot tub - Like a bath, a hot tub's high temperature can irritate newly waxed skin and is a breeding ground for unfriendly bacteria.
Working out (or any activity that makes you sweat) - Just like overly-scented body products, sweat can also irritate your newly waxed skin. Gym equipment can also introduce bacteria to your skin, so wait until your pores are safely closed.
Touching your waxed skin - This tip is worth repeating! It’s tempting to run your fingers along your flawlessly smooth skin, but hands that haven’t been washed and open pores aren’t a good combination. The same goes for picking at bumps or breakouts in the area—it introduces bacteria where you don’t want it.

Schedule Your Wax Today

Schedule a wax at European Wax Center to take your skincare routine to a whole new level. Proper waxing aftercare and regular follow-ups keep your skin looking its best, session after session. We offer a free* wax for all new guests, and we know you’ll love the silky-smooth results!

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