Accutane & Waxing - What You Should Know Before You Wax

I think we can all fully agree within the last 2 years we’ve all gotten increasingly more into skincare. Whether it is trying to battle the dreaded maskne, fight early signs of ageing, plump or hydrate our skin. The skincare world isn’t short of products for us to try! With social media being at the forefront of all of our lives, platforms like TikTok and Instagram are wonderful places to find professionals and brands recommending these products. 

Did you know that there are certain products that can prevent you from waxing?

When you come in for your appointment, your esthetician will go over a list of contraindications. This will either come in the form of a waiver, verbal confirmation or sometimes both. A contraindication can be anything that may prevent you from having a service or a treatment performed. In the esthetics world, this list is compiled of skincare treatments you’re currently using or any damages you may have to the skin. Some of these can be skin disorders, severe bruising, recent scar tissue, a sunburn or if you’ve used a sun bed within 24 hours. 

For skincare it can be if you’ve had a recent chemical peel, are using salicylic acid, vitamin c or retinol serums, taking antibiotics or on acne treatments. Vitamin C, Retinol or Salicylic Acid are products that are completely safe to still wax on, we just ask that you stop using them one week before any facial waxing, to avoid any damage to the skin. 

Then on the more intense side, there is the one big acne treatment that we will never do any type of waxing on anyone, and that is Accutane. This treatment can be blissful for someone who has severe acne looking to clear it up, but it does come with some side effects that can prevent any waxing whatsoever.

*Disclaimer: I am not a registered Dermatologist. This information is just the basic knowledge that I, as an Esthetician, need to know so I can perform waxing safely. As well as educate my clients on why I may not be able to perform the service.

What Is Accutane?

Accutane (Isotretionoin) is a powerful, prescribed medication that is used to help anyone suffering from severe acne. It is an extremely potent drug, that is very effective in clearing the breakouts.

What Are The Effects Of Accutane?

There are many side effects that Accutane has on the body during the treatment. Skin specific, it causes your skin to be thin, sensitive and dry. You’ll want to make sure you moisturize and slap on that SPF every day! SPF is super important during this time (as well as all the time) since your skin more sensitive to the sun, to protect it from sun damage.

Jojoba oil is a fantastic oil to use to give your skin that optimal hydration it needs. It mimics our skins sebum and is non-comedogenic, so it’ll balance your skins moisture levels and it won’t clog your pores.

Can I Get My Eyebrows Waxed On Accutane?

No. As said above, your skin will become thin during the course of your treatment, so getting any type of face waxing is a big no-no. So no facial waxing whatsoever.

Can I Still Get A Brazilian And Body Waxing Done?

Unfortunately this is still a no. You can still shave while on Accutane, just keep in mind that your skin will be dry and flaky so make sure you’re keeping it moisturized.

What Happens If You Wax On Accutane?

Because it’s such a potent drug, and the sensitivities that come with it, waxing while you’re going through the treatment will cause your skin to lift. Lifting of the top layer of skin will cause a wound and may leave brown spots.

How Long After Accutane Can You Wax?

It’s recommended to wait six months to one year before you start any type of hair removal.

Once you’ve finished your treatment, I recommend consulting with your doctor or dermatologist before jumping back into waxing. It’s good for your own peace-of-mind, as well as for your esthetician, to know that you’re good to go and won’t run into any issues. It does happen more often that not, when a client will say they aren’t on any skin medications, and then it’s too late once we’ve waxed and skin has lifted. So just make sure that you’re being truthful when asked about any of the contradictions, so it can be a smooth, comfortable and safe service!