When it comes to waxing the face, underarms, and bikini line, professionals want to ensure they are using the best hard waxes for these sensitive, delicate areas. However, there are countless brands and types and choosing the right one can be difficult. Understanding the ingredients found in hard waxes is an important step in making that crucial decision. Here are a few of the common ingredients in today’s hard waxes. GLYCERYL ROSINATE Derived from natural rosin, glyceryl rosinate acts as a surfactant, emulsifier, and skin-conditioning agent in hard waxes. It aids in wax adhesion and is often used in place of colophony – an ingredient known to cause allergic reactions. Glyceryl rosinate is light in color, low in odor, and resists oxidation and discoloration from heat and aging. WILLOW BARK EXTRACT Willow bark extract is commonly used in skin care products to soothe inflammation and irritation and to fight bacteria. It is rich in antioxidants, phenolic acids, and other minerals, and is often used in products to exfoliate skin, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, cleanse pores, and stimulate cells. Though willow bark extract is a low hazard ingredient, products containing the ingredient should be used in conjunction with sun protection because of the small amounts of salicin present in the extract. CALENDULA Calendula, or pot marigold, is an annual flower indigenous to the Mediterranean. It is used in skin care products for anti-aging, skin brightening, and moisturizing. The ingredient is antioxidant-rich with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Calendula oil is often used in emollients and washes to enhance healing and soothing. Resine by Hairaway Known in Europe as film wax, Brazilian Blue Hardwax by Resine by Hairaway stays pliable without getting brittle even on the edges. It applies thin, dries fast, and creates a strong, but flexible, layer from which the hairs are fixed. Customers rave that Brazilian Blue makes the treatment quick and is economical. The wax does not get stringy or break during application, staying flexible throughout the treatment. Brazilian Blue is suitable for sensitive areas such as the bikini line, underarms, and face. Ingredients include glyceryl rosinate, paraffin, hydrogenated microcrystaline wax, and azulene oil. 800-783-8328 or resinebyhairaway.com GiGi GiGi’s new Charcoal Detox Hard Wax is enriched with detoxifying ingredients that treat and protect the skin. Developed primarily for the face, this dual-purpose wax gently removes unwanted hair and unclogs pores for an enhanced waxing experience. The bamboo charcoal in the wax deeply cleanses and detoxifies; draws out impurities and toxins; and contains powerful absorption properties. The wax’s willow bark tones skin and reduces inflammation; gently exfoliates skin; controls sebum production and unclogs pores; and contains deep cleaning salicylic acid. Finally, zinc oxide soothes skin from irritation and redness; creates cushion for comfort; and contains barriers to protect the skin. 800-621-9585 or gigispa.com LYCON Wax LYCOJET EyeBrow Hot Wax is similar to LYCON’s LYCOJET waxes, Desert Rose and Lavender. Known as one of LYCON’s superhero waxes, LYCOJET Eyebrow Wax offers the same advantages as Desert Rose and Lavender, such as removing short, stubborn hair – as short as one millimeter – being gentle on the skin; and having a thin application. The LYCOJET Eyebrow wax contains chamomile and calendula for additional soothing. 855-890-2984 or lyconusa.com lyconusa.com Want to read more? Subscribe to one of our monthly plans to continue reading this article.