The Inside Story On Waxing Author: Angela Myers It might come as a surprise to you to know that the idea of removing of bodily hair originally came from ancient Egypt, where rich and royal women look upon hair removal as a key to look young and beautiful forever. The idea spread throughout the world including Greeks and Turks. According to the dictionary, waxing is : "a temporary method of hair removal which removes the hair at the root." It takes three to eight weeks for new hair to grow in any waxed area. Any area can be waxed, including eyebrows, face, bikini area, legs, arms, back, abdomen and feet. Never for a moment think that waxing is restricted to women only. Today's fashionable men wax their bodies for cosmetic reasons, while athletes and bodybuilders have been waxing for many years. Usually was is made up of paraffin or beeswax, natural oils and fats along with a specially formulated resin which makes the wax stick to the skin. Some manufacturers add Vitamin E and other supplements. In case you wish to wax, it does not matter whether you are male or female, you have to first decide whether to go for "hot" or "cold" waxing. The hot waxing technique starts with the heating of the wax to a reasonable and bearable temperature. Then the wax is spread evenly on the area of treatment in the direction of hair growth. When the wax has cooled, it is pulled off in the opposite direction of hair growth, so that the hair is removed along with it. During the cold wax process, there are strips of cloth on which wax is coated. These strips are pasted on the area under treatment and rubbed in the direction of hair growth. It is pulled out quickly in the opposite direction. Though the hot treatment is cumbersome compared to the cold waxing, many people find it more effective. Treatment after waxing There are some post-waxing treatments available, like, applying a non-scented moisturizer or those containing Vitamin B and/or Aloe vera. There are some activities however, which should be avoided after waxing: - Swimming - Using a Spa or Hot Tub - Sunbathing - Application of perfume, aftershave or deodorant to the area that has been waxed It is wise to check the temperature of the hot wax before use. This will prevent any scalding or burning. Diabetics should always remember to consult a doctor before undertaking any waxing. Waxing should be avoided in skin areas which are sunburned or peeled. Skin with lesions, infections, moles, warts, abrasions, rashes or even varicose veins should never be waxed. Wax should also not be used on eyelashes, nose or ear hairs, hair on nipples or hair directly on genitals though waxing the bikini area is alright. Waxing is a very convenient and easy way to remove unwanted hair, if you can withstand a little pain. About The Author: Angela Myers is a staff writer at http://www.beautytipsdigest.com and is an occasional contributor to several other websites, including http://www.wellness-digest.com.