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For athletes, waxing isn’t just cosmetic; it has practical implications. While shaving is quick and easy, it has to be done frequently because stubble grows back within a few days. Tightly fitting sportswear, such as running or cycling shorts and swimsuits, can cause major irritation and discomfort when it rubs against body hair or stubble.
Athletes need a better option. Waxing is gentler on the skin, and hair grows back finer with no annoying stubble. Smooth results from waxing also last much longer, so skin stays hair-free for 2-6 weeks.
Being hair-free reduces friction from clothing and drag on the skin, lessens the likelihood of chafing, enhances muscle definition, provides skin hydration and exfoliation, and improves hygiene, among others.
Athletes such as cyclists, swimmers, runners and bodybuilders can really benefit from waxing.
Waxing reduces friction and drag, especially in water, and can even have an effect on dry land. For swimmers and cyclists, being hair-free can improve aerodynamics. This is crucial when mere milliseconds can mean the difference between first and second place, or even a new record.
In bodybuilding, where every little detail matters, hair growth can camouflage muscle definition, and all the hard work and hours spent in the gym would be pointless.
Waxing doesn’t just provide a physical advantage but also a psychological one. When you know you have your body in the best shape possible for competing, this confidence and security allow you to perform at your highest level.
During workouts or competition, skin rubs against clothing, equipment, or other skin surfaces, causing chafing. This can result in painful rashes that can be very distracting when trying to perform at your very best, and hair is likely to worsen it.
Removing body hair also helps prevent chafing during long runs and races.
Body hair can trap sweat and become a breeding ground for bacteria. This increases the likelihood of body odour. Waxing leaves skin smooth and hair-free, reducing the chance of bacteria accumulating, thus allowing athletes to concentrate more on training and competing.
Less Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs may actually decrease performance, as they can be extremely uncomfortable and distract athletes from giving their best.
Waxing removes hair from the root, causing it to grow back softer and reducing the likelihood of ingrown hairs.
Hair-free skin allows for better adhesion (and easier removal!) of kinetic tape, plasters or bandages.
It is routine for athletes to have massages, using a range of creams, oils or gels before or after intense training to help muscles perform better or encourage repair. Excess body hair can cause pulling, and stubble will feel rough – not pleasant for any kind of massage.
Nowadays, EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) is widely used to assist with training. Often, when targeting specific muscles, a sticky pad is applied to the skin to conduct electricity. Superfluous hair prevents them from adhering properly and makes removal uncomfortable.
When skin is clear, it is also easier to treat certain injuries because of better visibility and access to the affected area.
Waxing has many advantages for athletes. Getting rid of excess body hair can help improve performance, lessen the likelihood of body odour and assist in treating certain injuries.
Avoid heavy workouts right before waxing and wait at least 24 hours after a session before hitting the gym again. It is best to schedule waxing appointments a few days before competitions or intense training sessions to give the skin a chance to recover.
For outdoor athletes such as runners or cyclists, sun protection is also essential.
It is advisable to always book with a licensed waxing therapist who uses good quality products. Having waxing done professionally saves time and gives the best results.
