We’ve done more professional waxes than anyone, which means we’ve also seen more first-time jitters than anyone. Our Wax Specialists have (quite literally) seen it all, including guests showing up to an appointment wearing numbing cream.
We get it, waxing can feel really daunting. But it’s not the scary, painful experience you’ve seen portrayed in pop culture. So, do you need numbing cream to take the edge off? We’re breaking down whether numbing cream actually helps with sensitive skin during waxing, and what really helps make your wax more comfortable.
Does Numbing Cream Actually Work for Waxing?
If applied correctly, numbing cream can dull waxing discomfort in the moment, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better for your skin—or your wax. Topical numbing creams are designed to temporarily relieve pain or discomfort by blocking signals sent by your skin’s nerve endings. While this might sound tempting, it probably won’t do you any favors in the long run.
Here are a few reasons we don’t recommend using numbing cream before waxing.
Numbing Cream Could Make Sensitive Skin Worse
First, there’s a difference between having low pain tolerance and having sensitive skin. If you’re worried about pain, there are plenty of other ways to make waxing more comfortable (more on that soon).
But if you have truly sensitive skin that reacts poorly to certain products, ingredients, or environmental triggers, numbing cream won’t make your skin less prone to reactions. In fact, your skin could react poorly to the cream itself, especially if you’ve never used it before. If you’re reacting to something else, it might take you longer to realize because of the numbing effect.
Safety Concerns with Numbing Cream for Waxing
During a service, your waxer needs to be able to regularly check in to ensure the wax isn’t too hot. If you’re using numbing cream and can’t feel the wax temperature, you may not know until it’s too late.
Less Effective Waxing with Numbing Cream
Numbing cream can create a barrier on your skin, making it harder for the wax to grip hair. This makes it more difficult to get a clean, even pull, which may require more passes over the same area. It’s why we always recommend showing up to your wax with clean skin free of oils, lotions, or creams.
Oops, I Used Numbing Cream. Can I Still Wax?
If you do end up using numbing cream, always let your Wax Specialist know before the appointment starts. (Don’t worry, you won’t get in trouble.) In most cases, we can still wax you. And it’s safer if your waxer knows so they can adjust your service accordingly.
“I've had guests come in and wipe off their numbing cream and hop on the table,” says Gina Petak, Senior Manager of Learning and Development at European Wax Center. “In this case, I’ll usually still perform the wax with that in mind, but I advise against it for next time.”
Can I Wax If I Have Sensitive Skin?
Yes, you can absolutely wax if you have sensitive skin. In fact, as long as you’re in the hands of a professional, your skin may even tolerate waxing better than shaving.
How Can I Avoid Skin Sensitivity from Waxing?
It’s completely normal for skin to feel a bit flushed or sensitive right after your appointment. Any further discomfort after waxing is usually caused by improper aftercare, which is easy to prevent with a few simple guidelines.
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Wear loose clothing to your appointment. No tight leggings or abrasive fabrics—ouch.
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Avoid intense exercise for 24 hours. Friction + sweating = unhappy skin
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Avoid saunas, hot tubs, and prolonged sun exposure for 24-48 hours. Heat is the common denominator here.
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Use soothing aftercare. A cool compress is a quick and easy way to calm your skin. Or try Ingrown Hair Serum, which is formulated with soothing ingredients such as vitamin E and chamomile.
Does Waxing Hurt?
Waxing removes hair from the root, so a brief sting is normal, but it passes quickly. That said, what hurts for one person might be fine for another. Factors like the area being waxed, your pain tolerance, and even hormones can all have an effect.
More sensitive areas with lots of nerve endings, like the bikini line, face, and chest, may feel more intense. That said, we see time and time again that anticipation is much worse than the actual discomfort. The wax itself? Almost always easier than they expected.
How Low Pain Tolerance Can Affect Your Waxing Experience
Having a low pain tolerance doesn’t mean you can’t wax. Everyone experiences pain differently, and being nervous can heighten these sensations.
This is why it’s so important to communicate with your Wax Specialist. Let them know if you’re nervous, new to waxing, or have a low pain tolerance. EWC Wax Specialists are trained to walk guests through the process, check in throughout the service, and use techniques designed to minimize discomfort. They’re here to help!
How To Make Waxing More Comfortable Without Numbing Cream
Numbing cream isn't the only way to make waxing more comfortable. In fact, the most comfortable waxes come down to a combination of expert technique and good preparation. Here's what makes the biggest difference.
Choose Waxing Experts
From start to finish, our waxing experience is designed with your comfort in mind. Our experts use a combination of proprietary techniques and our signature Comfort Wax® to make your experience as easy as possible.
Prepare For Your Wax
What you do to prepare can also make a difference. Here’s how to ensure a more comfortable wax before your appointment even starts:
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Exfoliate 24–48 hours before your wax, but not the day before
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Arrive with clean skin
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Moisturize consistently between appointments
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Avoid shaving or tweezing between waxes (for your first wax, make sure your hair is at least ¼” long)
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Stay on a regular waxing schedule
Numbing Cream for Waxing: FAQs
Can You Use Numbing Cream Before a Brazilian Wax?
Using numbing cream before a Brazilian wax is not recommended. Not being able to feel the temperature of the wax can create safety concerns, and the cream may make your wax less effective by leaving a barrier. Numbing cream can also be problematic for sensitive skin and should only be used externally, making it less than ideal for this delicate area.
How Long Before Waxing Should You Apply Numbing Cream?
While using numbing cream before waxing is not recommended, most creams require 30-45 minutes to become effective. If you choose to use numbing cream, always follow the instructions on the packaging.
Can Numbing Cream Make Sensitive Skin Worse?
Yes, numbing cream can make sensitive skin worse. It depends on whether or not you’re sensitive to any of the ingredients. In addition, if you’re experiencing skin sensitivity for another reason, numbing cream can mask it and make it harder to catch.
Should You Tell Your Wax Specialist You Used Numbing Cream?
Yes, you should always tell your waxer if you used numbing cream. It’s true we don’t recommend it, but don’t worry—you won’t get in trouble! In most cases, we’ll still wax you as we normally would. But it’s safer if your waxer knows you used numbing cream, so they can adjust your service accordingly.
Can you wax if you have sensitive skin?
Yes, you can absolutely wax if you have sensitive skin. In fact, as long as you’re in the hands of a professional, your skin may tolerate waxing better than shaving.
