Massachusetts Board of Cosmetology Practice Exam

What should be avoided during a Brazilian wax?

1. Waxing over irritated or broken skin

2. Using cold wax on warm skin

3. Applying too much pressure during application

4. Waxing when the hair is too short

The correct answer is: Waxing over irritated or broken skin

Avoiding waxing over irritated or broken skin is critical to ensuring the safety and well-being of the client. When the skin is compromised—be it through irritation, cuts, or any other form of trauma—applying wax can exacerbate the condition, lead to increased pain during the procedure, and result in further injury or complications like infections. Healthy skin is essential for safe waxing, as it minimizes the risk of adverse reactions and contributes to a more comfortable and effective hair removal process. In contrast, while using cold wax on warm skin and applying too much pressure during the application can have some negative effects, they are not as immediate in terms of safety. Cold wax may not adhere effectively, leading to patchy results instead of harming the skin directly. Similarly, applying pressure incorrectly may discomfort the client but does not have the same level of risk associated with compromising the integrity of the skin, as with waxing over already compromised areas. Waxing when the hair is too short can lead to ineffective results, but it is not inherently dangerous like working over irritations or breaks in the skin.