As licensed beauty professionals, we love retinol just as much as the next person. As brow specialists…not so much! Here’s why.

Retinol (the good)

Retinol is a famous ingredient recognized widely for its anti-aging abilities. It is a derivative of Vitamin A and over time works wonders for:

• Reducing fine lines

• More even skin tone

• Skin that is more hydrated and supple-looking

• Reduction in number of breakouts

• Smoother texture

• Clearer pores

• Firmer skin/less sagging

Retinol (the not-so-good)

As with almost anything, too much of a good thing can be…BAD.

Excessive use of retinols can lead to dermatitis. Using retinol causes the sloughing off of dead skin to reveal new skin which can become sensitive when exposed to irritants and therefore more susceptible to damage.

…Enter waxing. Waxing is our preferred hair removal method because of the smooth, longer lasting results as compared to razor. However, if new skin is pulled off (technical term: lifting) during a wax, it can result in scarring.

Here’s one of the reasons alllllll those questions on the the Waxing Intake Form are important. It’s all for your good so please be honest!

Best of Both Worlds

Yes, you can have it all…fabulously waxed brows & retinol, and here is how.

Scale Back

To minimize the chances of skin damage, we recommend reducing or discontinuing your Retinol use for 10 -14 days prior to your brow appointment. Scaling back will allow your skin a chance to build more layers that won’t get damaged when strips are pulled off. Skin will be less sensitive just in time for your brow appointment and we won’t have to worry about the risks.

Gentler Options

Like we said, we LOVE a good wax, but you can also opt for a tweeze-only brow session as well. Not all brow specialists offer this option but this method does not tug on the skin like waxing does, therefore minimizing the risk of damage to the skin.

Threading is also an option.

Have a Convo with Your Brow Specialist

If you’re unsure if you should proceed with your brow service, have a conversation with your specialist. The consultation is key/king! This is the time to discuss any challenges or goals for your brows as well as ANY products, steroids or medications you may be using that could possible lead to a less than favorable waxing experience.

Inform your brow specialist of any Retinol use including frequency of use. Let your brow specialist know about your Retinol use, including how long you’ve used it and if you’ve reduced use before your appointment.

Other Products

Retinol is not the only culprit that can cause damage to skin if paired with waxing. If you make any changes to you regimen in between visits, be sure to share this info. Even if you don’t think something is important, please share it and let the professional make that determination.

Give them a heads up if you

• have previous sensitivity to waxing

• are using Retinol (see above!)

• are using glycolic acids

• have any known allergies

• recent skin treatment

• other topical or oral acne meds and steroids (see a longer list under “When can’t I wax?” on our FAQ page— this list does not cover EVERYTHING)

We believe you can absolutely have beautiful skin AND beautiful brows simply by following the tips we’ve shared above and the guidance of a trusted brow specialist.

Need a brow specialist? Secure your reservation at PRMP here.