Ingrowns are always a hot topic.  So I thought I would share the top 3 causes, in no particular order.

1. Dead skin cell build up: When the skin is dry, dehydrated or flaky, the hair cannot penetrate out of the follicle.  That is why it is important to send clients home with after care to exfoliate and hydrate the area so that hairs can pop right out.

2. Improper waxing technique: Whether using hard or soft wax proper application and removal are essential to preventing ingrowns from the waxing service itself.  For example:

Applying wax in the direction of hair growth and removing against is very important. There is one time when this rule can be broken and that is when removing short hair with hard wax.  In that instance you can go against the growth and then with to fully encapsulate the hair so that it can be more easily removed.

3. Friction: wearing tight fitting clothes and clothes that are not made of breathable fabrics (nylon, polyester etc) cause rubbing and perspiration, which in turn creates the perfect environment for ingrowns to occur.  When possible it is always preferable to have clients go "commando" after their waxing service and wear loose fitting clothing for 3-4 days post wax.