Whether you're a waxing pro or hair removal novice there's no sugar coating it, waxing can be an uncomfortable process. As for waxing while pregnant? That's a whole other discussion.
According to Google, a lot of us are asking about it too. Can you wax when pregnant? Does waxing when pregnant hurt more? Should you wax right before giving birth? If you are pregnant and wondering what to do about your hair removal schedule – you're not alone. Even Chrissy Teigen took to Twitter this week to ask fellow mums-to-be about pregnancy waxing.
'I know it's definitely more painful pregnant but is waxing down there while pregnant a litttttle bit worse or a lot worse? I can do a little bit worse,' Chrissy wrote.
Unsurprisingly, Chrissy's post reeled in thousands of comments, though opinions were divided. Many women claimed waxing while pregnant is 'a lot worse', some commented that it's no different and others thought she needn't bother considering it and instead go au naturel.
It goes without saying that hair removal is very much a 'you do you' arena, anything goes, but if you do want to wax while pregnant and have the same questions as Chrissy, you've come to the right place. Is it safe? Does it hurt? Here's everything you need to know...
Can You Wax While Pregnant?
‘Sugaring or waxing during pregnancy is completely safe, unless your healthcare professional has advised otherwise,’ says sugaring expert Ejiro Owusu. ‘It can be more uncomfortable during pregnancy but this is not the case with everyone.’
That said, because of the hormonal changes usually associated with pregnancy, your skin is likely to be more sensitive and more prone to itchiness after the treatment. If your pain threshold can handle a little hike of the ouch factor, you're good. Always head to a professional though.
Is Sugaring Better When Pregnant?
Many hail sugaring as a kinder-to skin waxing option during pregnancy. 'The main difference between sugaring and waxing is the ingredients involved,' explains Rosie Khandwala, founder of Aqua Natural, a company which provides strip sugar products for professional use. 'Most waxes used in salons are chemically formulated, whereas sugaring uses completely natural ingredients.' Plus, sugaring tends to hurt less than waxing as it pulls less on your skin.
‘If you are someone who finds traditional waxing uncomfortable, I do advise trying sugaring,’ says Ejiro. ‘I had sugaring throughout my pregnancy. It doesn’t leave you with that ‘raw feeling’ – that you can sometimes feel after waxing if you have more sensitive skin.’
If you're concerned about waxing while pregnant make sure to check in with your midwife or GP.
Main Image: Instagram @chrissyteigen