As they harden they trap the hair in the wax so it is removed by the roots when the wax is ripped off. Cold waxes are available in precoated strips which can be pressed directly onto the skin. The hair sticks to the wax and is then removed with the quick pull back action. As dead skin cells are removed in this process the skin can feel quite smooth afterwards. The waxing action does cause the skin to sting and many find a soothing skin healing cream to be helpful afterwards.
Some persons find the skin reacts with redness and bumps which disappear after a few hours.
Some physicians do not recommend waxing for persons suffering from diabetes or who have varicose veins or poor circulation as they are more susceptible to infection. Users of Retin-A, Renova, Differin or Accutane are advised not to use waxing on the face as these medications tend to weaken the skin and tearing of the skin may occur when the wax is removed. Waxing should not be done on areas of skin affected by warts, pimples, moles or rashes or on skin that is irritated, chapped or suffering from sunburn. Never apply wax to peeling, broken skin or varicose veins. Never apply wax to the nipples when removing hair from the breast area.