Summer is the season for smooth skin — but it's also the season that makes waxing a little more complicated. If you've spent a day in the sun or hopped in a tanning bed recently, your wax appointment might need to wait. Here's what you need to know before you book.
Can You Get Waxed If You're Sunburned?
The short answer: no. Sunburned skin is damaged skin. When UV rays hit your skin, they break down its protective barrier, leaving it inflamed, sensitive, and compromised. Waxing on top of that is a recipe for a bad experience — and potentially a bad outcome.
When skin is sunburned, waxing can:
-
Lift or tear the skin, since the outer layer is already weakened
-
Cause intense pain beyond what a normal wax involves
-
Trigger excessive redness, blistering, or irritation
-
Delay healing of both the burn and your post-wax skin
Even if your burn looks mild or feels like it's fading, the skin is still in recovery mode underneath. We always do a quick skin check before every appointment — and if there's any active sun damage, we'll need to reschedule for your safety and comfort.
How Long Should You Stay Out of the Sun Before a Wax?
To be safe, avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 24 hours before your wax — and longer if you've had any burning. The goal is for your skin to be calm, not reactive, when you come in. This means:
-
No beach days or pool days the day before
-
No tanning beds in the days leading up to your appointment
-
If you do catch some sun, check your skin honestly before coming in
When in doubt, give us a call — we'd rather reschedule than cause you unnecessary discomfort.
Why You Need to Protect Your Skin AFTER a Wax Too
Here's the part a lot of people don't think about: your skin is just as vulnerable after a wax as it is after a sunburn.
Waxing removes hair from the root, which means your skin is temporarily open and sensitized. For 24 to 48 hours after your appointment, UV exposure can cause:
-
Hyperpigmentation (dark spots that can linger for weeks)
-
Severe irritation and redness
-
Ingrown hairs triggered by inflammation
-
Sunburn that hits harder than it normally would
So even if you're fresh from a wax and feeling silky smooth for your vacation — cover up, stay in the shade, or reach for a good SPF before stepping outside.
Protect Your Skin Before and After with Our Sunscreens
We carry a curated selection of Vacation® sun care at the studio (and online!) so you can protect your skin without skipping a beat.
Classic Whip SPF 50 — $23
A "lighter-than-air" sunscreen mousse that dispenses in gorgeous whipped peaks — SPF 50 protection with coconut oil, aloe vera, and vitamin E. It rubs in fast, streak-free, and transparent on all skin tones. This is the one to reach for all summer long.
Orange Gelée® SPF 30 Spray Oil — $25
A French Riviera classic reimagined as a luxurious SPF 30 spray oil. The non-aerosol continuous spray format makes application effortless at any angle, and the legendary Orange Gelée® scent (bergamot, saffron, patchouli, sandalwood) makes it genuinely enjoyable to put on. Toss it in your beach bag.
Chardonnay Lip Oil SPF 30 — $16
Don't forget your lips — they burn too. This SPF 30 lip oil made from Chardonnay Grape Seed Oil nourishes, plumps, and protects with a non-sticky glass-like shine and a caramel-vanilla flavor. Lips are often one of the most neglected spots when it comes to sun protection.
Super Spritz SPF 50 — $22
A premium SPF 50 face mist that works over makeup, fits in your bag, and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Perfect for on-the-go reapplication throughout the day — and dermatologist tested for daily use.
All of these are available at the studio or you can shop online. Stock up before your next trip so your skin stays protected all season long.
The Bottom Line
Waxing and sun exposure don't mix — before or after your appointment. The 24 to 48 hour window on either side is your skin's best friend. Plan around it, protect your investment with a good SPF, and you'll be smooth, glowing, and sunburn-free all summer long.
Ready to book? Schedule your appointment here.
Have questions about whether your skin is ready for a wax? Send us a text at 213-415-2717. We're always happy to help you figure out the best timing.