Waxing and tanning are two skin care treatments that, unless done in the right order, do not go hand in hand. This is due to the simple fact that one requires a buildup on the skin (either of product or sun-exposure), whilst the other has a highly exfoliating effect; effectively stripping the skin bare of any damaged surface skin.
Waxing Before Tanning
Waxing treatment of just about all kinds is very exfoliating to the skin and it is known to remove dead skin cells and any excess buildup of residue on the surface of the body. For this reason, waxing prior to an artificial tan can be beneficial; most salons suggest that you exfoliate prior to tanning in any case, and so it only makes sense to utilize the benefits of waxing for this purpose. Applying a tan on exfoliated skin ensures better coverage and staying power of the tan, and so you get the most effective results from both treatments.
However, it is important to note that applying a fake tan on the same day as undergoing waxing is something to be avoided. As with other creams and skin care lotions, applying fake tan to freshly-waxed skin can cause a blockage of the opened pores; allowing a buildup of product to get caught in the pores and follicles. This could lead to potential skin irritations, infections, or simply uneven color of the tan, as the pigment is more resiliently buried into the skin. For this reason, if you are looking to apply a fake tan after your wax, be sure to time your treatments with at least 24 hours between them, to give your skin a chance to recover before the tanning product is applied.
If you are someone who pursues a ‘natural’ tan through sun exposure, waxing before you attempt to build up color is also more conducive to effective results. However, increased UV exposure is highly damaging to your skin on any day, and exposing freshly-waxed skin to the sun is even more so. Freshly waxed skin is at increased risk for burns and skin sensitivity, and application of sunscreen is not recommended for the same reason that fake tan is also not recommended on the same day as hair removal; pore blockages and skin irritation.
Tanning Before Waxing
Tanning, whether artificial or as a result of sun exposure, results in a coloring of the outermost layer of skin. As waxing often provides an exfoliation effect, it can potentially remove any color that has been built up; resulting in uneven skin tone and unsightly discoloration. For this reason, it is recommended that you wax prior to tanning.
If for some reason you need to remove your hair after having built up a natural color or applied tanning creams, keep in mind that you may need to apply gradual tanning lotion to your body to maintain or even out the color after hair removal. Where possible, delay waxing until right before your next tanning session to get the most out of your tan.