Waxing is a popular hair removal method that involves applying hot wax to the skin and pulling it off, along with the hair, in one swift motion.

Many women choose to wax their pubic area for a clean and smooth look, but for women with vulvodynia, waxing can be a painful and uncomfortable experience.

What is Vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition that affects the vulva, which is the external female genital area. The pain can be constant or intermittent, and it may be described as burning, stinging, or sharp.

Vulvodynia can make it difficult to perform daily activities, including sexual intercourse and hair removal.

How Waxing Can Affect Vulvodynia

Waxing involves pulling hair out from the skin, which can cause physical trauma to the area. For women with vulvodynia, this trauma can trigger pain, discomfort, and inflammation. The warmth of the wax can also exacerbate vulvar pain.

Furthermore, the chemicals in some wax products can cause irritation for women with vulvodynia. Some ingredients, such as fragrance and preservatives, can be particularly problematic.

These chemicals can strip the natural oils from the skin, leading to dryness and itchiness.

Alternatives to Waxing

If you have vulvodynia and are looking for a hair removal method that won’t exacerbate your symptoms, there are a few alternatives to waxing that you may want to consider:.

1. Shaving

Shaving is a simple and relatively painless way to remove hair from the pubic area. It is important to use a clean and sharp razor, as a dull razor can cause nicks and cuts that can be painful for women with vulvodynia.

Shaving can cause ingrown hairs, which can also be uncomfortable, so it is important to exfoliate the area regularly.

2. Depilatory cream

Depilatory creams are chemical creams that dissolve the hair at the skin surface. They are easy to use and can be purchased over the counter.

However, some women may be allergic to the chemicals in the cream, so it is important to do a patch test before using. Depilatory creams can also be irritating to the skin, so it is important to follow the instructions carefully and not leave the cream on for longer than recommended.

3. Laser hair removal

Laser hair removal involves using a laser to target the hair follicles and prevent them from growing new hair. It is a more expensive and time-consuming method, but it can be an effective option for women with vulvodynia.

It is important to find a reputable provider and to follow the aftercare instructions carefully to avoid irritation or infection.

Preparing for a Wax Appointment

If you have decided to go ahead with waxing despite your vulvodynia, there are some steps you can take to prepare for your appointment and minimize the risk of pain and discomfort:.

1. Choose the right wax product

Choose a wax product that is specifically designed for sensitive skin, and avoid products that contain fragrance, preservatives, or other potentially irritating ingredients.

You may also want to opt for a “hard wax” product, which does not require strips and is less likely to cause trauma to the skin.

2. Use pain relief cream

Apply a numbing cream, such as lidocaine cream, to the area before your appointment to help minimize pain and discomfort. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and do not apply more cream than recommended.

3. Wait until after your period

Waxing can be more painful and uncomfortable during your period, so it is best to schedule your appointment for a week or two after your period ends.

Conclusion

Women with vulvodynia may find waxing to be a painful and uncomfortable experience. If you have vulvodynia, there are alternative hair removal methods that you may want to consider, including shaving, depilatory creams, and laser hair removal.

If you do choose to wax, be sure to choose the right wax product, use pain relief cream, and schedule your appointment for after your period to minimize pain and discomfort.