From the Guidelines
To treat persistent irritation in the bikini area after switching from shaving to waxing, apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer regularly and use a soothing product containing aloe vera or witch hazel to reduce inflammation and promote healing. The key to managing this irritation is to keep the area clean and moisturized, avoiding harsh products that can further irritate the skin 1. Some important considerations for managing skin irritation include:
- Moisturizing regularly to prevent dryness and irritation
- Protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure using SPF 30 UVA and UVB protective sunscreen
- Using gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and patting the area dry rather than rubbing
- Avoiding greasy creams and topical acne medications that can exacerbate irritation 1 It's also important to avoid manipulating the skin or using hot blow-drying, which can increase the risk of infection 1. If signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, or pus are present, medical attention should be sought as antibiotics may be necessary. Overall, gentle skin care and avoiding irritants are key to managing persistent irritation in the bikini area after switching from shaving to waxing.
From the FDA Drug Label
Uses temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: ... temporarily relieves external anal and genital itching Directions for itching of skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes: ... for external anal and genital itching, adults: ... apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily
The treatment for persistent irritation in the bikini area after switching from shaving to waxing is to apply hydrocortisone to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily. It is essential to clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water and gently dry before applying the medication. Key points to consider:
- Temporary relief of itching associated with minor skin irritations and inflammation
- External anal and genital itching can be relieved with this product
- Adults and children 2 years of age and older can use this product, but children under 2 years of age and children under 12 years of age for external anal and genital itching should ask a doctor 2 2
From the Research
Treatment for Irritation in the Bikini Area after Waxing
The patient has stopped shaving and switched to waxing, but still experiences irritation in the bikini area.
- The study 3 found that folliculitis following epilation by waxing is more frequent in proximal parts of the extremities than in distal parts, even though distal parts are more frequently waxed.
- In one-third of the cases, post-waxing folliculitis is due to foreign body reaction to hair shaft or keratin and resembles pseudofolliculitis 3.
- Another study 4 reported a case of severe complications of a "Brazilian" bikini wax, including life-threatening Streptococcus pyogenes and Herpes simplex infection of the external genitalia.
- However, there is no direct evidence from these studies to support a specific treatment for irritation in the bikini area after waxing.
Possible Treatment Options
Although the provided studies do not directly address the treatment for irritation in the bikini area after waxing, some studies suggest the use of topical creams for skin conditions:
- Sertaconazole 2% cream may be an excellent alternative therapeutic modality for treating seborrheic dermatitis 5.
- Pimecrolimus 1 percent cream has been shown to be effective and safe in the treatment of psoriasis in children 6.
- Topical hydrocortisone 1% cream has been compared to triamcinolone 0.1% cream for the treatment of phimosis, with no statistical difference between the two arms at each interval 7.
Considerations
It is essential to note that these studies may not be directly relevant to the treatment of irritation in the bikini area after waxing. Further research is needed to determine the most effective treatment for this specific condition.