After Waxing Care: How Natural Deodorants Affect Skin

Posted on December 1, 2024May 26, 2025 by Cali VanAelst

01
Dec

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Natural deodorants are trending, but are they really safe to use after waxing? In this article, we explore how key ingredients in “clean” deodorants—like baking soda, lactic acid, and essential oils—can irritate freshly waxed skin. Whether applied to the underarms, bikini line, or intimate areas, these products may compromise skin recovery and increase sensitivity. Learn why it’s time to rethink your clients’ after waxing care routine, and how estheticians can prevent discomfort by addressing natural deodorant use before and after waxing.

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Understanding Natural Deodorants and Their Impact on Waxed Skin

As licensed estheticians, one of our priorities is to ensure clients enjoy a safe, irritation-free waxing experience. A commonly overlooked but important factor is the use of natural deodorants before or after waxing, especially on sensitive areas such as the underarms, bikini line, and intergluteal cleft (between the cheeks).

Natural deodorants are praised for being free from aluminum and synthetic ingredients, yet their exfoliating properties can potentially cause skin sensitivity and adverse reactions after waxing.

Why “Natural” Doesn’t Always Mean “Safe After Waxing”

1. Exfoliating Ingredients Can Thin the Skin

Many natural deodorants contain active ingredients that exfoliate the skin, which can make waxed areas more prone to irritation:

Lactic Acid (AHA): Promotes cell turnover but increases skin sensitivity.
Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda): Alters the skin’s natural pH and may cause dryness, irritation, or even chemical burns if used excessively.

2. Essential Oils Can Be Potent Irritants

Natural doesn’t mean hypoallergenic. Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus, while antibacterial, can lead to redness, itching, or allergic reactions post-wax, especially when applied to compromised skin.

The Trend of Using Deodorant Beyond Underarms

Today, consumers increasingly apply natural deodorant to intimate areas such as:

The bikini line
Between the cheeks
Under breast folds or groin creases

While this may improve freshness, it raises waxing-related concerns:

Delicate skin in these areas is more reactive
Layering deodorants with scrubs or moisturizers increases irritation risks
Varying pH levels from products can impair the skin barrier

Best Practices for Estheticians: Managing Deodorant Use Around Waxing

Client Education

Encourage clients to check labels and understand the impact of exfoliants, acids, and essential oils. Explain how these products can interfere with waxing results and increase sensitivity.

Timing Matters

Advise clients to avoid applying natural deodorants at least 48 hours before waxing sensitive areas. This reduces the chance of histamine reactions, redness, or skin lifting.

Pre-Wax Consultation

During intake, ask about personal care products. If a client uses natural deodorant in sensitive zones, consider delaying the service or adjusting your approach to protect the skin.

Post-Wax Aftercare

Recommend fragrance-free, pH-balanced, soothing products after waxing. Clients should avoid natural deodorants for 48–72 hours post-waxing, especially those with acids or essential oils.

Deodorant After Waxing: Final Thoughts

While natural deodorants may seem like a safer option, they are not always suitable for freshly waxed skin. Their exfoliating and fragrant components can compromise the skin barrier and increase sensitivity, especially in intimate areas.

By fostering open communication, tailoring your consultations, and educating your clients, you can significantly reduce the risk of reactions — creating a more comfortable and informed waxing experience.