Kentucky Cosmetology State Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Waxing is a hair removal method that involves applying wax to the skin and quickly removing it, which can irritate the skin. When considering contraindications for waxing, certain skin conditions and situations make it potentially harmful.

Sunburned skin is a contraindication for waxing because it is already inflamed, sensitive, and compromised. Applying wax to sunburned skin can lead to additional irritation, increase the risk of pain, and exacerbate the damage to the skin. This can result in further complications, such as blistering or peeling, thus making it essential to avoid waxing procedures on sunburned areas until the skin has fully recovered.

While dry skin, oily skin, and age spots may present challenges during a waxing procedure, they do not pose the same level of risk as waxing over sunburned skin. For example, dry skin might require more care and possibly different techniques or products to ensure comfort, but it is not an outright contraindication. Oily skin may affect the adherence of the wax but is not harmful in the same way. Age spots, typically benign and common with aging, do not pose a danger when considering waxing.

Thus, waxing should be avoided on sunburned skin to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.