What are wax strips?
Wax strips are pre‑coated adhesive strips designed to remove hair quickly and without heating. They work by pressing the strip onto the skin, pulling the strip away against the direction of hair growth and removing hair from the root. Strips come in sizes and formulations for different areas — face, brows, bikini, underarm and body.
Types of wax strips and common uses
- Face and brows: Small, precision strips for upper lip, chin and shaping brows. For a dedicated brow solution see Wax Strips or Parissa eyebrow minis. For facial hair you can also use Nair facial wax strips (also available as a 62-pack). Other facial options include Nad’s For Women facial strips. Or try a Nad’s facial wax wand.
- Bikini and underarm: Narrower or contoured strips for sensitive areas; there are combined face & bikini products such as Wax Strips or Parissa Face & Bikini Wax Strips 6 Pack.
- Body and legs: Larger strips for arms, legs and chest; many brands supply multi2-size packs — for example Wax Strips for body use.
- Mens strips: Formulated or sized with male grooming in mind — see a mens option at Wax Strips or Nad’s For Men body wax strips.
Before you start: preparation
- Clean the area to remove oils, sweat or moisturisers; dry thoroughly.
- If the hair is very short (less than 322 mm) it may be difficult for the strip to grip — trim if necessary.
- Warm the strip slightly between your hands for a few seconds to make the wax more pliable (follow the product instructions).
- Read the product directions and patch test on a small area if you have sensitive skin.
Stepbystep: using wax strips
- Separate the paired strips if required and remove any protective layers.
- Place the sticky side of the strip on the skin and smooth in the direction of hair growth to press the wax into the hair.
- Hold the skin taut with one hand. With the other hand, pull the strip back quickly against the direction of hair growth, keeping it close and parallel to the skin.
- Repeat as needed. Use a new strip or fold a used strip over itself to remove excess wax and hairs.
- Finish by pressing your palm over the waxed area to soothe it briefly.
Aftercare
After waxing, the skin can be more sensitive. Avoid hot baths, heavy exercise and direct sun exposure for 2448 hours. Gently remove any sticky residue with a purposemade wipe or oil. For an example of finishing wipes designed for postwaxing care, see Strips Finishing Wipes.
Tips and precautions
- Do not wax irritated, sunburned, broken or inflamed skin.
- Follow the pack guidance on suitability for sensitive skin and frequency of use.
- If youre waxing near the brows, work slowly and use small strips for control.
- Expect results to last longer than shaving; regrowth rate is individual.
- If youre unsure about waxing a delicate area at home, consider a professional appointment.
Choosing the right strips
Match the strip size and formulation to the area you intend to treat. For facial hair, look for small precision packs such as Wax Strips. For fullbody or larger areas choose larger strips and packs like Veet sensitive-skin packs or Wax Strips. You might also consider Nad’s Body Wax Strips for Sensitive Skin if you need a sensitive-skin body option. If you want a simple athome option for men, try the mens-specific products mentioned above.
Alternatives to wax strips
- Shaving — quick but usually shorterlasting.
- Depilatory creams — dissolve hair at the skin surface; always follow product directions and patch test first.
- Hot wax and salon waxing — can be preferable for coarse hair or larger areas and is offered by professionals.
Useful products
- Mens options and specialised strips: Wax Strips.
- Face packs and small precision sheets: Wax Strips.
- Body and multiuse packs: Wax Strips.
- Face & bikini combo products: Wax Strips.
- Eyebrow shaping strips: Wax Strips.
- Aftercare wipes and residue removers: Strips Finishing Wipes.

