WITH THE SUMMER HAIR REMOVAL RUSH EN ROUTE, A.I.I HAS A FEW WAXING TIPS TO STEER CLEAR OF 'STICKY' SITUATIONS

With the hair removal boom just around the corner, A.I.I, manufacturer of innovative category leaders in waxing products, has a few pointers to make each waxing session a little less painful for you!

Having trouble removing the hair? One of the following is likely:

1. The hair is too short.

Hair should be at least 1/4 inches long to wax. The wax strip was pulled off too slowly or in the wrong direction. The wax strip was not applied immediately after wax application and rubbed firmly for 3-4 seconds in the direction of hair growth.

2. Too much wax was applied.

For wax that glides on evenly every time, try the clean + easy Waxing Spa. Each roller applies wax at just the right temperature and thickness for perfect results. For better wax adhesion, lightly dust the area with talcum powder to absorb any excess oil or moisture on the skin before eplilation. clean + easy 'lavender' moisture absorbent talc is resistant to moisture, making skin dry and oil-free and is formulated to calm the senses while reducing redness.

Slight irritation is normal after any waxing session, but swollen, discolored or irritated skin could be the result of poor technique. When pulling off the wax strip, hold the skin taut and pull the wax strip off parallel to the skin. If this causes discomfort, apply gentle pressure to the area with your fingertips. Ice also works to decrease sensitivity. You can also use GiGi Bikini Soothing Cream with 2% Lidocaine, a 'numbing' lotion designed specifically for use before and after waxing.

Make sure the wax is at the correct temperature - too hot will burn, and too cold will cause the muslin strip to rip or not adhere properly to the wax.

Your client may be sensitive to waxing, or reacting to the wax you're using. GiGi Tea Tree Crème Wax is the ideal method of hair removal for sensitive skin or for hair removal in delicate areas. Formulated with the 100% pure tea tree oil, an essential oil comprised of 48 organic compounds with natural astringent properties, GiGi Tea Tree Crème Wax balances and renews skin while removing unwanted hair.

Here are a few tips:

To minimize the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs, avoid wearing tight clothing over newly waxed areas. Exfoliate the skin 24 to 48 hours after the waxing session to prevent the build up of dead skin cells (which will resut in ingrown hairs.)

Do not expose newly waxed areas to the sun for at least 48 hours after treatment. A good sun block is also recommend to protect the skin. Body Drench 'sundown' SPF 30 Spray is formulated with Wheat Germ Oil, renowned for its anti-inflammatory, hydrating and soothing properties.

Because skin tends to be more sensitive right before and right after your menstrual cycle, waxing can be more painful. Try to avoid scheduling waxing sessions 3-4 days before and 3-4 days after your period.

Wax Clean Up:

Cleaning up is easy. GiGi 'Sure Clean' is a no-rinse formula that is perfect for maintaining your wax warmer as well as most surfaces. In addition to wax, this all-purpose cleaner also removes chewing-gum, grease, crayons and lipstick from carpets, floors and upholstery.

To keep your Clean + Easy wax station and roller heads clean, wipe them with Clean + Easy 'Remove' after each use. 'Remove' can also be used to remove wax residue from counter tops and your skin!

Other Clean-Up Tips:

Used epilation strips, wax spatulas and empty wax cans can get messy if you're not careful. Use disposable bags to protect wastebaskets from wax residue.

Cover waxing stations and treatment tables/area with disposable paper or clean sheets. Not only is it sanitary, but this simple step will prevent these areas from getting sticky.

Before applying wax, clean one side of the spatula by rubbing it against the rim of the wax can. Too much wax on the spatula can drip, making a mess of your waxing station and you! Also, keep things sanitary by only using a spatula on one person; don't share spatulas.

GiGi, clean + easy and Body Drench products are available at salons and beauty supply stores nationwide. For more information call Jill Ottoson at (323) 728-2999. GiGi, clean + easy and Body Drench are divisions of American International Industries, a leading manufacturer and distributor of professional beauty and skin care products for the salon/spa professional (www.aiibeauty.com) and (www.stophairgrowth.com).