What to look for when choosing a waxing solution for your salon

I want to invest in a new wax. How should I decide which is best for my salon?

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to finding a wax that’s right for your business but your first port of call should be researching what’s on the market. Inferior waxes can cause redness, irritation and ingrown hairs, and can even be highly perfumed and stringy in texture. You need to look for a wax that’s pliable, consistent, nourishing, has a subtle aroma and, most importantly, can remove hair effectively.

Having a good understanding of your client base will also steer you towards a particular solution. For example, if you do a lot of Brazilian and facial waxing, or have an older client base, then you may want a gentler, cream-textured wax. However, if your clients are predominately Asian, then you might opt for a wax that works better on thick and stubborn hair.

Some salon owners invest in a cheaper wax to save a bit of money but I really advise against this because you can’t afford to risk the quality of your wax – it can make all the difference in terms of securing repeat business and long-term clients.

We’re told “natural” is better, but when it comes to pine tree resin in waxes, unrefined resins can cause allergic reactions and product instability. Top-of-the-range synthetic resins are much safer, more consistent in production batch to batch and easier to work with. If you’re really unsure, ask the manufacturer for samples so you can try before you buy.

   Lilliane Caron is owner and director of Waxxxpress, which has a range of hot, strip and pre- and post-waxing products.

I want to invest in a new wax. How should I decide which is best for my salon?

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to finding a wax that’s right for your business but your first port of call should be researching what’s on the market. Inferior waxes can cause redness, irritation and ingrown hairs, and can even be highly perfumed and stringy in texture. You need to look for a wax that’s pliable, consistent, nourishing, has a subtle aroma and, most importantly, can remove hair effectively.

Having a good understanding of your client base will also steer you towards a particular solution. For example, if you do a lot of Brazilian and facial waxing, or have an older client base, then you may want a gentler, cream-textured wax. However, if your clients are predominately Asian, then you might opt for a wax that works better on thick and stubborn hair.

Some salon owners invest in a cheaper wax to save a bit of money but I really advise against this because you can’t afford to risk the quality of your wax – it can make all the difference in terms of securing repeat business and long-term clients.

We’re told “natural” is better, but when it comes to pine tree resin in waxes, unrefined resins can cause allergic reactions and product instability. Top-of-the-range synthetic resins are much safer, more consistent in production batch to batch and easier to work with. If you’re really unsure, ask the manufacturer for samples so you can try before you buy.

   Lilliane Caron is owner and director of Waxxxpress, which has a range of hot, strip and pre- and post-waxing products.