Training Manual – Contraindications & Hygiene

Contraindications to Waxing

Contraindications are conditions that either prohibit any waxing treatments from being carried out or procedures may need to be adjusted. A consultation with your client is not just a formality, but a necessity to determine whether clients have any contraindications. It builds trust and protects both client and therapist. If your client has any of the following conditions, you must take extra care and safety precautions, as well as use good judgment, as there are various levels of severity in each condition. We recommend performing a patch test 72 hours before the wax treatment.

• Varicose veins: Moderate to severe varicose veins indicate that circulation is compromised. Avoid waxing over the area.
• Bruises: Do not wax over bruises.
• Skin diseases: I.e., herpes – do not wax near herpes or cold sores.
• Cuts, abrasions, scabs: Avoid waxing over these until fully healed.
• Warts or skin tags: Do not wax over them.
• Hairy moles: Never wax or tweeze hair from moles; cut the hair off at skin level before treating the area.
• Hypersensitivity: Sunburn or intense skin resurfacing makes the skin fragile. Wait until it heals completely.
• Recent scars: Only wax after scars have healed and no sensitivity remains.
• Irritated or inflamed skin: Do not wax over these conditions.
• Medication: Avoid waxing if your client is on medication such as Roaccutane, Retin-A, or antibiotics, or is undergoing chemotherapy.
• Electrolysis: Avoid waxing before or after electrolysis or laser treatment to the area.
• Diabetes: Take extra care, as sensation and circulation are compromised.
• Others: Do not wax the area if your client suffers from boils, ulcers, rashes, or skin infections.

Hygiene & Cleanliness

As a waxing specialist, it is your duty to provide a hygienic working environment to protect yourself and your clients against potential cross-infection. We suggest you use this checklist to ensure you are providing safe waxing procedures:

• Does your client have any open wounds, rashes or skin infections?
• Have the bed, trolley, and all implements been sterilised?
• Is your wax heater clean?
• Is your wax at the correct working temperature?
• Have you washed your hands with an antiseptic?
• Do you have gloves on?
• Do you have enough disposable spatulas or metal spatulas?
• Do you have good lighting?
• Have you prepared the skin by wiping with Harley Cleanser &Toner?
• When using Harley Hot or Film Wax, have you applied a small amount of Harley Pre-Waxing Oil?
• After an application, have you applied Harley After Wax Oil or Aloe Soothing Gel?

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