Waxing the upper lip temporarily removes hair from the follicle. The hair will grow back, but for most people, hair growth reduces with time after repeated waxing, and skin remains smooth for three to six weeks. [1] The experience can vary; some find it irritating, potentially causing pustules or burns. [6] The myth that hair will grow back thicker or darker is false. [2] However, immediately after waxing, the area may feel rougher due to the blunt ends of the hairs. [5] Some individuals choose to start waxing their upper lip as early as their teens. [7, 8, 9]
What to Expect:
- Temporary Hair Removal: The wax pulls the hair out from the root, resulting in smooth skin for several weeks.
- Regrowth: Hair will eventually regrow. The time it takes and the amount of regrowth depends on individual factors like genetics and hormones. Generally, hair growth will lessen over time with continued waxing. [1]
- Possible Irritation: Some experience redness, irritation, or even pustules or burns after waxing, especially if this is the first time waxing the area. [6]
- Rough Texture (Initially): Immediately after waxing, the hairs are cut at the base rather than at their natural tapered end, which may cause a rougher feeling. [5]
Addressing Concerns:
The common fear that waxing will cause thicker, darker hair is untrue. [2, 3] While some individuals might find the process initially uncomfortable or even slightly painful, the results are generally well-tolerated.
References:
[1] How long does it take for upper lip hair to grow back after waxing? It varies. Regrowth depends on your hair type, hormones, genetics, and how long you have been waxing for. For most people, hair growth reduces with time after waxing, and skin stays smooth between three to six weeks after a wax session.21-Oct-2024
[2] Quora.com: What happens when a girl shaves her upper lip? - Quora. (This reference supports the claim that hair does not grow back thicker or darker after shaving, although it pertains to shaving and not specifically waxing. The principle is similar.)
[3] Quora.com: If I shave my upper lip, will it grow back darker and thicker? I'm a girl. (This is another Quora reference addressing the myth of thicker hair growth.)
[4] HuffPost.com: I Got My Mustache Waxed, And Here's What Happened | HuffPost Life.
[5] Quora.com: If I shave my upper lip, will it grow back darker and thicker? I'm a girl
[6] Reddit.com: Are there any side effects of waxing your upper lips and chin are? : r
[7] Makeupandbeautyblog.com: How Young Is Too Young to Wax, Thread or Pluck? - Makeup and
[8] Reddit.com: Should my teenage daughter remove the hair above her upper lip
[9] Salongeek.com: Lip wax on 13 year old girl? | Salon Geek - Salon Professionals Forum
