Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions About Male Waxing & Grooming Answered
Whether you're new to waxing or a regular client, we understand you may have questions about our men's grooming treatments. Below you'll find answers to the most common questions we receive about male waxing, treatment preparation, aftercare and booking appointments at Bare Essentials Studio.
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How much notice do I need to book an appointment?
Booking availability varies depending on the day, time and season. As a general guide, we recommend booking a few days in advance to secure your preferred appointment slot. However, we sometimes have same-day availability due to cancellations, so it's always worth contacting us even if you need an appointment urgently. -
What are your cancellation terms?
We require at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice will incur a 50% cancellation fee based on the booked service cost. We understand that unexpected situations arise, so please contact us as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment. -
Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes, we require deposits to secure appointments and reduce no-shows. For treatments over £100, we take a 50% deposit. For treatments under £100, we require a 20% deposit. Deposits can be paid by credit or debit card when booking over the phone. Your appointment is only confirmed once the deposit has been received. -
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, debit cards, credit cards, contactless payments, Apple Pay and Google Pay. Payment is due at the end of your appointment, with any deposit already paid deducted from the final amount. -
Why don't you answer private numbers?
For security and professional reasons, we don't answer calls from withheld or private numbers. If you have your caller ID turned off, please leave a voicemail message with your contact number and we'll return your call as soon as possible. Alternatively, send a text message or email and we'll respond promptly. -
What if I'm running late for my appointment?
If you're running late, please call or text us immediately to let us know. Depending on how late you'll be and our schedule for the day, we may need to reduce your appointment time or reschedule to another slot. We'll always try to be as flexible as possible, but significant delays may mean we can't complete your full treatment. Please note that late arrivals may still incur the full treatment fee even if the service cannot be completed. -
How should I prepare before my waxing appointment?
Gently exfoliate the treatment area with exfoliating mitts or body scrub 2-3 days before your appointment. This removes dead skin cells and lifts the hairs, making waxing more effective.
Moisturise daily to soften your skin. Shower before your appointment so you arrive clean and fresh. If you're coming straight from work, we provide wet wipes for you to freshen up. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. If you plan to exercise, do this before your appointment and shower afterwards, as physical activity isn't recommended immediately after waxing.
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What length does my hair need to be for waxing?
Hair needs to be at least 4-6mm (approximately ¼ inch or 1cm) in length for effective waxing. If you've been shaving, please allow at least three weeks of regrowth before booking your waxing appointment. The same applies if you've been using depilatory creams. Hair that's too short cannot be gripped properly by the wax, resulting in incomplete removal and the need to rebook. -
Should I trim my hair before my waxing appointment?
No, please don't trim your hair before visiting. Many people trim too short, which prevents effective waxing. We'd rather trim your hair to the correct length ourselves, as we know exactly how much to remove for optimal waxing results. -
Can I take pain relief before my waxing treatment?
Yes, if you have a very low pain threshold, you can take over-the-counter pain relief medication 20-30 minutes before your appointment. Paracetamol-based products (such as Panadol) are recommended. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen-based products for at least two weeks before and after waxing, as these thin the blood and may cause bleeding or bruising during treatment. -
Should I shower before my waxing appointment?
Yes, please shower before your appointment so you arrive clean. Good hygiene makes the treatment more comfortable for both you and your therapist. If you're coming directly from work and can't shower beforehand, we provide wet wipes so you can freshen up before treatment. -
Will waxing hurt?
Waxing does involve some discomfort, particularly during your first treatment. However, most clients find it's not as painful as they anticipated. With over 24 years of experience, Pauline works as skilfully and efficiently as possible to minimise discomfort.
The pain level varies depending on the area being treated, your personal pain threshold and your hair type. Sensitive areas like intimate waxing tend to be more uncomfortable than larger areas like legs or back.
The good news is that discomfort reduces significantly with regular treatments as your hair becomes finer and your skin adjusts to the process. We use premium Lycon wax, which delivers up to 50% less discomfort compared to standard waxes.
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How long does a waxing treatment take?
Treatment duration depends on the area being waxed and individual factors such as hair density and pain threshold. As a general guide:
- Intimate waxing (Hollywood or Brazilian): up to 60 minutes for men, up to 40 minutes for women
- Full back waxing: 45-60 minutes
- Chest and stomach waxing: 45 minutes
- Full leg waxing: 60-75 minutes
- Facial waxing: 10-20 minutes
- Eyebrow shaping: 10-15 minutes
We never rush treatments. We work as quickly as possible whilst remaining thorough and achieving the best possible results.
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How will my skin feel after waxing?
Some soreness, small bumps and redness are common and perfectly normal temporary reactions, especially after your first waxing treatment. These symptoms typically subside within 24-48 hours. The chest, stomach and back are areas that commonly show reactions in men, particularly after initial treatments. Following proper aftercare advice and maintaining regular waxing appointments usually results in fewer reactions over time. Your skin should feel smooth and hair-free once any initial redness settles. -
What should I avoid after waxing?
For 24-48 hours after waxing, avoid the following:
- Hot baths or showers (risk of swelling or heat reaction)
- Saunas, steam rooms or hot tubs
- Exercise or gym workouts (open pores risk bacterial infection)
- Swimming in pools (chlorine) or the sea (salt)
- Sexual activity or friction in intimate areas if you've had intimate waxing
- Perfumed products including body lotions, deodorants, perfumes and makeup on treated areas
- Sunbathing, sun beds or direct sun exposure (may irritate skin and change pH balance)
- Touching or rubbing treated areas with unwashed hands
- Tight clothing that may cause friction or irritation
- Applying antiseptics unless advised by your therapist
These precautions protect your newly waxed skin whilst pores are open and vulnerable to infection or irritation.
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How often should I return for waxing treatments?
For smooth, consistent results, we recommend waxing every 4-6 weeks. Most people notice some regrowth after a week or two, but it can take up to four treatments for your hair to synchronise into a growth cycle that delivers optimal results. Once your hair is on a regular cycle, you may be able to extend the time between appointments to 5-6 weeks. Regular waxing encourages finer hair growth and slows the growth cycle, meaning longer periods between treatments over time. Avoid shaving or using depilatory creams between waxing appointments, as this disrupts the natural hair growth cycle and leaves you with stubble. -
How do I prevent or reduce ingrown hairs?
Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows beneath the skin surface and can become inflamed or infected. To prevent ingrown hairs:
- Gently exfoliate the treated area 2-3 times per week (wait a few days after waxing before starting exfoliation)
- Always moisturise after exfoliating, bathing or showering to keep skin hydrated and supple
- Apply antiseptic cream (we recommend Sudocrem) regularly for the first few days after waxing to soothe and protect skin
- Never pick or scratch at ingrown hairs, as this may cause irritation or infection
- Avoid tight-fitting clothes that rub or irritate the skin
- Alternate underwear styles to prevent irritation in the intimate area
Regular exfoliation and moisturising are the most effective ways to prevent ingrown hairs and maintain smooth skin between appointments.
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What is the difference between strip wax and hot wax?
Strip wax (soft wax) is applied thinly using a spatula and removed quickly with cloth or paper strips. This technique is effective for larger body areas like legs, back, chest and arms. Strip wax is efficient for covering broad surfaces where hair tends to be finer.
Hot wax (non-strip wax) is used for delicate, sensitive areas like the intimate region, underarms and face. A thin layer of oil is applied to the skin first, creating a protective barrier. Hot wax shrink-wraps around individual hair follicles, removing hair from the root without pulling at the skin. This technique is ideal for removing strong, thick, coarse hair with less discomfort.
For treatments like back or chest waxing, we often use a combination of both techniques, applying hot wax to areas with coarser hair and strip wax to the remaining areas.
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What type of wax do you use?
We exclusively use Lycon precision waxing products, a world-renowned hair removal system recognised as the industry gold standard. Lycon hot wax and strip wax are formulated with the finest natural resins, beeswax and aromatherapy oils.
The wax removes stubborn hair as short as 1mm (hot wax) or 2mm (strip wax) whilst being gentle on all skin types. Lycon's low-temperature, super-pliable formula provides up to 50% reduction in discomfort compared to other waxes, making treatment as comfortable as possible. The wax leaves skin soft, smooth and residue-free without sticky aftermath.
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What conditions prevent me from getting waxed?
Several conditions prevent or restrict waxing treatments:
Conditions requiring medical referral or written permission:
- Diabetes (unless controlled, GP consent recommended)
- Skin conditions being treated by a GP or dermatologist
- Recent surgery (within 6 months)
- Medical oedema, osteoporosis or arthritis
- Conditions requiring anti-coagulant medication
Conditions that restrict or prevent treatment:
- Contagious or infectious skin diseases on the treatment area
- Sunburnt or heavily tanned skin (wait 3-4 weeks)
- Recent fake tan (wait 7-10 days until faded)
- Broken skin, cuts, bruises or abrasions (wait until fully healed)
- Roaccutane medication (wait 6 months after finishing)
- Retinoid acne medications including Retin-A, Differin, Tretinoin (wait 3 months)
- Steroid creams (wait 3 months)
- Recent use of tanning beds (wait 3-4 weeks)
- Pregnancy (hormonal changes affect hair growth and skin sensitivity)
- Fever or feeling unwell
- Under influence of drugs or alcohol
Total contra-indications:
- Skin cancer or pre-cancerous lesions
- Tattoos or permanent makeup on treatment area (must be covered with surgical tape)
- Loss of skin sensitivity
- Metal pins or plates in treatment area
If you have any medical conditions or take medication, please inform us during your consultation so we can advise whether waxing is suitable or if you need GP clearance.
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Can I get waxed if I have sensitive skin?
Yes, sensitive skin can be waxed safely with the right technique and products. We use Lycon hot wax for sensitive areas, which is specifically formulated for delicate skin. A protective oil layer is applied before waxing to create a barrier between the wax and your skin.
Hot wax grips the hair without adhering to skin, making it much gentler than standard waxes. If you have very sensitive skin, inform us during your consultation so we can adjust our technique and recommend appropriate aftercare to minimise any reaction.
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Can diabetics get waxed?
Diabetics can generally be waxed if their condition is well-controlled. However, we recommend obtaining written permission from your GP before booking, as diabetic skin can be more sensitive and prone to bruising or slow healing. Long-term diabetes may make skin more sensitive to waxing. Your safety is our priority, so please disclose your diabetic condition during consultation so we can proceed appropriately. -
What medications affect waxing?
Several medications affect waxing suitability:
Must stop before waxing:
- Roaccutane (wait 6 months after finishing medication)
- Isotretinoin, Tetracycline, Tretinoin, Retin-A (wait 3 months after finishing)
- Vitamin A supplements (stop 72 hours before treatment)
- Aspirin or ibuprofen (stop 2 weeks before and after treatment, as these thin the blood)
- Hydrocortisone (wait 3 weeks after last use)
May prevent waxing:.
- Anti-coagulant medications (aspirin, warfarin, Phenediene, Heparin)
- Oral steroids or hormonal therapy
- Immunosuppressive medications
- Photosensitive medications (some antibiotics, St John's Wort)
Wait period after other treatments:
- Antibiotics (wait 2 weeks after finishing course)
- Anti-inflammatories (wait 2 weeks after last use)
Always inform us of any medications you're taking during your consultation. If in doubt, we'll recommend obtaining GP clearance before proceeding with treatment.
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What happens if I get aroused during intimate waxing?
This is one of the most common concerns men have about intimate waxing, so don't worry about asking. Physical arousal can occasionally occur due to the manipulation of the genital area during treatment.
This is a natural physiological response and is temporary. Pauline is a highly experienced professional who has performed thousands of intimate waxing treatments. She understands this may happen and handles the situation with complete professionalism and discretion.
However, please note that whilst involuntary physical responses are understood and accepted, any inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated. Professionalism and respect are maintained at all times.