In 2021, an estimated 980 thousand women in the UK used hair removal products once a day or more (statista) - that is a lot of razor heads and wax strips! Are you aware of the most common mistakes we make when shaving or waxing? An expert told us...

Courtesy of Sparkle PR

Our trusted waxing expert and founder of Sugar Coated, Rosie Khandwala, reveals the 10 biggest mistakes women are making when it comes to DIY hair removal.

Shaving Mistakes

Ph. KoolShooters, Pexels

1. Not Storing Your Razors Properly
"Storing razors in the shower leads to corroding and weaker blades. You should clean and dry razors after each use and store them outside of the bathroom to avoid moisture and extend their shelf-life."

2. Not Prepping Your Skin With A Hot Towel
"Prepping your skin with a hot towel before you shave will soften the hairs allowing for a closer shave. Never prep your skin with cold water since this can make it more difficult for the shaving cream to fully penetrate the skin and be effective."

3. Neglecting To Exfoliate
"Exfoliating your skin before you wax, or shave will enable you to achieve smoother results. Exfoliating on a regular basis can also help to prevent ingrown hairs."

4. Not Shaving In The Direction Of Hair Growth
"You should always shave in the direction of hair growth. Shaving against the grain can cause irritation and increase the chances of razor bumps."

5. Shaving In The Morning
"When you sleep your legs can swell which makes shaving in the morning less than optimal. Shaving at night will allow you to get a closer shave."

Waxing Mistakes

Ph. flaviasaad, Pixabay

Rosie says "Waxing is having a real viral moment right now due to the aftermath of the lockdowns."  You would be surprised but #Waxing has 9.6 Billion views on TikTok!

1. Waxing Right Before Or After Your Period
"If you’re extra sensitive to discomfort, avoid waxing right before, during or after your period. Hormonal fluctuations during these times can make waxing more painful. Instead, opt for a wax mid-cycle."

2. Exfoliating Right After You Wax
"You need to let the treated areas rest for at least 2 full days before it’s safe to exfoliate. Exfoliating prior to that can be very painful and result in redness and irritation."

Laser Hair Removal Mistakes

 Source: Sugar Coated

1. Expecting Permanent Results
"Despite often being marketed as providing permanent results, laser hair removal simply offers significant hair reduction and won’t get rid of hair forever. Occasional touch-ups will be needed in order to keep you smooth."

2. Not Shaving Before Treatment
"Shaving before treatment ensures that the hair follicle will be destroyed. Any residual hairs will prevent the laser’s heat from fully penetrating the hair shaft. It can also cause the treatment to be more painful."

3. Neglecting After Care
"Your skin will be extra sensitive and more susceptible to skin damage afterwards. Wear sunscreen to prevent hyperpigmentation. Avoid hot showers and steam rooms for at least two full days to let your skin heal."

Rosie says "choosing the correct hair removal method is so personal to the consumer, a lot of thought goes into it such as time, money, results. When creating Sugar Coated I set to make something that gave salon-worthy results, without breaking the bank, or taking too long to master."

"Sugar Coated sugar wax is 100% natural and the only UK manufactured wax that is vegan and cruelty-free. This means our formula of just pure sugar syrup and water is gentler on the skin, and more effective for hair removal as it sticks directly onto hair and pulls them straight out from the root - giving you smooth results each time."

You can find Sugar Coated Sugar Wax Full Body Kit available at Feel Unique (£12.99 for 250g). 

Are you making any of these mistakes? You are still in time to shave or wax correctly and get rid of unwanted body hair the right way and for longer.

The colder weather only means one thing for the skin; extra work… 

Ph. Sora Shimazaki, Pexels

Many people find they struggle with their skin more in the winter due to the cold weather drawing out moisture. This often results in a dash to the shops and nearly always, a hefty bill. 

Fashions Finest has put together a collection of tried and tested affordable skincare saviours bound to take precedence in your collection this winter. From tackling hair removal to treating yourself to a nourishing overnight mask, these skincare essentials will help you through the frosty months of winter.

Embryolisse, Lait-Crème Concentre (£13)

This winter, treat your skin to the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentre. A cult-favourite, the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentre is enriched with essential fatty acids and vitamins. This 5-in-1 lotion helps to not only restore harmony where there is imbalance but also nourish areas of dryness and protects your complexion from environmental aggressors. The lotion is light in texture and absorbs quickly leaving no residue and making it perfect for all skin types. Doubling as a multi-functional product that can also be used as a hydrating face mask, skin is left feeling plumped, soothed and hydrated. 

COSRX, Ultimate Moisturising Honey Overnight Mask (£23)

Why not try the COSRX Ultimate Moisturising Honey Overnight Mask formulated with propolis extract known for its healing properties. This luxurious and effective skincare treatment works as you sleep to nourish and hydrate which is perfect for anyone whose skin is more irritated during the winter months. Enriched with a potent blend of propolis extract and natural beeswax, the formula restores vital moisture to the complexion for a softening and brightening effect, as well as soothing any redness or irritation. It can also be used as a wash-off mask or simply as a cream to impart visible radiance and health to the skin. 

SOS Serum (from £5)

The answer to sensitive skin just became our answer to winter skin. SOS Serum is the perfect product for those whose skin is dry or irritated, as it works to heal and soothe skin that has been irritated by environmental aggressors. This face and body treatment is highly moisturising to dry skin and great for soothing sensitive skin. Doubling nicely as a miracle product, this serum is quick and effective for managing allergic flare-ups as well as treating and soothing cuts, bites, plant & insect stings and minor burns.

Freshly Cosmetics, Red Velvet Oil Serum (£35)

This powerful and innovative oil-serum uses 15 plant-derived oils to treat wrinkles, expression lines, scars, blemishes, redness, inflammation, irritation, and eczema. Its 100% natural, the oil-based formula makes it the perfect skincare swap this winter, as it treats blemishes and scars, without irritating or drying the skin.

Sugar Coated, Full Body Hair Removal Kit (£12.99)

Hair removal is not just for summer! The cruelty-free, vegan wax from Sugar Coated removes your hair easily and effectively. With results lasting longer the more often you wax, it is essential to keep up waxing in the winter months. The sugar wax is completely water-soluble as well as easy to use and mess-free. The kit comes complete with wax strips that can be washed and reused leaving you with a salon-quality sustainable treatment every time. Sugar Coated full body hair removal kit is instantly biodegradable and all packaging is fully recyclable. 

Tan-Luxe, Hydra Mousse Hydrating Self-Tan Mousse (£35)

For anyone who enjoys a bronzed glow all year round, Tan-Luxe hydrating fake-tan mousse will be your new favourite- especially in the colder months! The tan is scientifically formulated for super-fast absorption to deliver a believable, natural-looking tan while increasing skin’s moisture levels. Featuring skincare grade vitamins B5, C and E and raspberry seed oil, the light formula bestows an undetectable golden glow within 4-6 hours making you ready for any event throughout the winter. 

The 'Martini', the 'Brazilian', the 'Classic'... No, these are not the names of some fancy Summer cocktails but three popular bikini waxing styles. Waxing the bikini area can be quite challenging at first, but everyone can master it at home with pro tips, practice and the right product like Sugar Coated Bikini Hair Removal Kit.

Hair removal is an important part of a woman’s routine. Not only is hair removal preferred for a beautiful look but it also has other benefits.

Being stuck in the middle of Lockdown once again, we are all back to at-home beauty routines – including DIY hair removal.