Written By: Dr. Anna H. Chacon

Waxing is a simple yet effective hair removal method that can produce longer-lasting results than shaving. It’s not uncommon to experience slight skin sensitivity after waxing, and this subsides quickly for most people. However, some guests can experience bumps after Brazilian wax treatments and other waxing services. Often, these bumps are a sign of folliculitis, a skin condition that develops due to inflammation. Understanding what folliculitis is and why you may experience it after waxing can help you take steps to reduce the risk of developing bumps and other symptoms post-treatment.

What Is Folliculitis?

Folliculitis is a term for inflammation of the hair follicles. Follicles are the tube-shaped structures that support the root of the hair. You can develop folliculitis on any part of your body, but it most commonly affects the face, arms, upper back, and lower legs. Some symptoms of folliculitis include:

• Flesh-colored bumps
• Small pimples that resemble acne
• Blisters that break open and then become crusty
• Itching
• Burning
• Redness
• Tenderness to the touch

In some cases, bumps are the only sign of folliculitis. If you develop bumps after a  Brazilian or any other type of waxing, you may not experience any additional symptoms.  In many cases, itching and tenderness are mild when they occur.

Common Causes of Folliculitis After Waxing

Folliculitis can arise due to many causes, including shaving and waxing. In some cases, bacteria are the cause of post-waxing folliculitis. Bacteria entering the hair follicles can trigger an immune system response, leading to inflammation. This can be mitigated by following an aftercare routine recommended by your waxer, and by using a product like EWC TREAT® Ingrown Hair Serum to help keep pores clean post-wax.

Accumulation of dead skin in the follicles can also contribute to folliculitis after waxing. Blockages can cause inflammation directly or lead to ingrown hairs, which irritate the follicles as they grow. 

Some people are more at risk for developing folliculitis than others. Individuals with sensitive skin are generally more prone to irritation and may be more likely to get folliculitis as a result. Coarse and curly hair is often more likely to form ingrown hairs, raising the risk for folliculitis. In addition, those with diabetes and other conditions that affect the immune system may be especially vulnerable to the bacterial infections that cause folliculitis.

Prevention Tips for Folliculitis

Following expert-recommended advice can minimize the risk of developing symptoms of folliculitis, such as bumps, after Brazilian waxing and other waxing treatments. Some things you can do to help prevent folliculitis include:

• Exfoliating before your treatment.
• Avoiding heavy creams that can clog pores before and after treatment.
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing to your treatment and during the first couple of days immediately after.
• Keeping the treated area clean by cleansing twice daily.
• Applying soothing products, such as EWC TREAT® Brightening Ingrown Hair Serum.

Treating Folliculitis and Post-Waxing Bumps

If you notice bumps and other symptoms of folliculitis, you can often treat the problem at home by:

• Using a gentle cleanser to keep the affected area clean.
• Treating the area with an over-the-counter antiseptic lotion, gel, or wash.
• Easing itching with over-the-counter itch-relief products, such as hydrocortisone.
• Applying a warm, moist washcloth to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes to reduce discomfort.

Most cases of post-waxing folliculitis will clear up within a few days. However, if symptoms persist, seek the advice of your healthcare provider. The best way to prevent folliculitis from waxing is to see a licensed expert who works in a clean environment. European Wax Center prioritizes cleanliness and follows strict protocols for sanitation.  

Expert Tips for Long-Term Skin Health

Adopting a post-waxing skincare routine can help you maintain smooth skin between treatments and lower the likelihood of irritation. There are three main steps to a complete regimen for after-waxing skin care:

• Cleansing: A gentle cleanser like EWC TREAT® Get Smooth Body Wash can keep treated areas clean and fight the factors contributing to folliculitis.

• Exfoliating: Regularly removing dead skin with EWC TREAT® Face & Body Exfoliating Gel can reduce the likelihood of follicular blockages and ingrown hairs while also supporting smoother, softer, and more radiant skin.

• Moisturizing: Replenishing your skin’s supply of moisture aids in overall skin health and can reduce irritation. Choose a moisturizer based on your skin type for best results.

A knowledgeable waxing professional can provide product recommendations and additional tips for promoting healthy skin. 

Get Personalized Advice on Preventing and Managing Folliculitis After Waxing

The right aftercare routine can reduce your chances of developing bumps after a Brazilian wax and other waxing services. European Wax Center professionals have extensive training and are here to give you personalized product recommendations. They can advise you on how best to care for your skin after waxing so you stay smooth and confident. 

Learn more about our Brazilian waxing, eyebrow waxing, and other waxing services, find your nearest location, and make a reservation for your consultation today.

About the Author

Dr. Anna H. Chacon is a double Ivy League-educated board-certified dermatologist. Following medical school at Brown University, Dr. Chacon completed a fellowship in dermatologic & laser surgery at the University of Miami, in which she authored many articles, book chapters, and managed several clinical research studies. She then completed a one-year surgical internship at Orlando Regional Medical Center. She completed her dermatology residency at LAC+USC Medical Center in Los Angeles. She is currently a board-certified dermatologist in South Florida. She speaks multiple languages including English, Spanish, and French; and aspires to treat her patients like family. She has an interest in rural health and providing healthcare to underserved areas. She serves as the first and only dermatologist that provides medical care to the Native Americans of the arctic slope of Alaska. She currently is the most licensed female dermatologist and is licensed in 46 states to practice medicine across state lines. She loves dermatology and also enjoys writing in publications, magazines, online websites, research studies, and scientific articles.