A good running technique is the best way to prepare for a marathon. We can also help ourselves and make the run more comfortable with good grooming.
Ever wonder how your wax might be affecting your workouts, or vice versa? Us, too. So we asked Kathryn Brady, waxing expert with precision waxers, Brazilia (with locations in South William Street and Sandyford) to get the scoop on how your hair removal habits and your running performance are related.
Below, she spills some of her best waxing secrets as well as offers tips to help you get your sweat on while still maintaining soft and smooth skin.
For a runner or someone who enjoys working out, what are the benefits of waxing over shaving?
“A big plus is that waxing is safer than shaving and will help you avoid the daily risk of nicks, cuts, ingrown hairs and razor burn that can irritate you while you’re working out and wearing tight clothing.
“Waxing removes hair from the root making it a longer-lasting form of hair removal. Results can last from four to six weeks, which is ideal for those of us who run regularly, or want to save time in the shower after a workout,” Kathryn tells us. Waxing also has the long term benefit of thinning out the hair over time.
What about the dreaded Ingrown Hairs?
They are rare but they do happen, particularly to athletes due to friction and sweat. “If the new growing hair is not able to get through the surface of the skin, it will curl inwards back down into the skin, which causes a red inflamed bump,” Kathryn tells us.
These trapped hairs typically work themselves out within a few days, but they can occassionally get infected, which can be quite painful and look very unsightly. “Don’t try to pop your bump with a tweezer or a needle. You would be surprised at the number of people who try,” she adds.
You can prevent ingrown hairs by exfoliating your bikini line regularly. Kathryn recommends using an exfoliating treatment like Lycon Body Exfoliant in the shower every second day between hair removal appointments. This unblocks congested pores and helps uncover and dislodge ingrown hairs.
“For clients prone to bumps and ingrown hairs, She recommends a specific Ingrown product that minimises the appearance and discomfort of ingrown hairs and blemishes. Lycon Ingrown X-It Cream contains Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Allantoin and Arnica. Arnica and Allantoin soothe redness and promote skin healing. The Salicylic acid minimizes the ingrown hair too so it’s an all-round product” she says.
Why else should I wax if I am a runner?
Clients tell us all the time why they like to wax if they are fit and in regular sporting events –
- Gravel rash wounds heal quicker.
- Bandage tape goes on and off easier and less painfully.
- Massages are more effective and less painful.
- Compression garments work better and are easier to get in and out of.
- It feels better when running.
- It shows of the definition of muscles.
No different than choosing the best running shoe or the best running app, runners should strongly consider the method of hair removal that they use. In addition to reducing shaving discomfort, waxing saves athletes time, workout clothes fit better, and skin perspires and breathes easier, keeping odours at bay and making the sport more enjoyable.
If you fancy a wax ahead of a big marathon, head to Brazillia.
Brazilia, South William Street, Dublin 2
T: (01) 675 0000 E: info@brazilia.ie
Brazilia, 4 Sandyford Office Parks, Dublin 18
T: (01) 293 4858 E: sandyford@brazilia.ie