From The Straits Times    |

We go through so many IPL, waxing and threading sessions in a year that we don’t really pay attention to what actually goes on in the room.

Sure, we remember the application of cooling creams and warm wax, but have you ever noticed what your therapist is wearing or using?

B 5 Unhygienic hair removal practices infections women easily overlook.png

Nasty infections can come about from unhygienic practices. And it doesn’t help that the body creates the perfect environment for bacteria to breed, especially during hair removal.

Here’s how you can keep yourself guarded against awful infections.

#1 YOUR THERAPIST USES HER MOBILE PHONE RIGHT BEFORE YOUR TREATMENT
Our mobile phones have been put on so many surfaces – on top of our bathroom shelves, tables at the hawker centre, and sometimes even, the floor. It’s no wonder that mobile phones are ranked second in the six everyday items that are filthier than a toilet, says hair removal salon Strip. (There are many articles to support this – check here, and here.)

So if you see your therapist holding onto her mobile phone before your treatment, make sure she washes her hands and puts on gloves.

If not, well, you know. (Your body temperature is great for bacterial growth – see point five.)

#2 HAIR ON THE RAZOR, AND IT’S NOT YOURS
There are just some things in life that we just don’t share, like your toothbrush and your razor. Of course, finding hair that’s not yours on a razor could be an extreme case. But just because you don’t see any hair or dirt stuck in between the blades of a used razor doesn’t mean it’s safe to share it. Imagine the dead skin and bacteria that’s been “scraped” off another person’s “area” (we mean genitals, armpits and legs – brutal truth) on the same razor that’s going to be used on you – eew! Bring your own disposable razor, or ask for a new one.

If it has happened to you, feel free to discuss the horror in the comments section – people need to know that it’s not alright. Always insist on a fresh razor.

#3 THE TOWEL STINKS
This happens in so many places – from manicure salons, hair removal parlours and even spas. (Jet-setting beauty junkies will recognise plenty of dodgy treatment stories on TripAdvisor.) Chances are, they weren’t properly washed and dried.

We tend to let it pass after all, it’s only external, right? Wrong. It’s the same principle as point two and five, there’s always a chance of creating an open wound, and dirty towels are the best places for bacteria to grow. Now imagine that on your skin, worse still, on an open wound.

Don’t ever sacrifice hygiene for “face”, it’s always best to insist on a fresh towel.

#4 YOUR THERAPIST DOESN’T WEAR GLOVES
Okay, so your therapist has put down her mobile phone and washed her hands with antibacterial soap (that really doesn’t do much, by the way). But what about the dirt that may be hiding under her fingernails? Truth is, many of us forget to wash them, especially if we’re in a hurry. Even the common hangnail can be infected, too. So make sure your therapist puts on a pair of clean gloves before starting the treatment.

#5 THEY DON’T STORE THEIR TOOLS AND TOWELS PROPERLY
Dampness can be a cause of stinky towels, even more so when they’re stored in a dark cupboard. You know what that sounds like? Mould. Don’t want any of that when you’re getting a brazillian, for sure.

Most bacteria are also said to thrive at 37 degrees celsius, which is the temperature of our bodies. Check how your hair removal salon stores their towels, the first indicator is scent, and in worse cases, grey or black stains. Always ask for a fresh one.

Photography: Vernon Wong; Art direction: Michelle Tham; Styling: Hong Xinying; Hair and makeup: Dollei Seah, Lydia Thong and Vicky Lee of Makeup Entourage (9111 1919), using M.A.C; Model: Lee Soon Young/Nu Models; Dress: COS; Watch: Swarovski

For more information pertaining to hygiene in hair removal treatments, visit Strip’s campaign page at www.dirtylittlesecretsexposed.com.

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