Waxing effects

Two days ago I had a brazilian wax done for the first time.  Everything was going well until today when I looked at my vagina and I noticed whiteheads forming in the front.  Should I be worried? Because I kinda freaked. I'm not sure what to make of it or how to treat it. Please help?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

You seem to be having folliculitis due to waxing. Folliculitis is the inflammation of one or more hair follicles. Folliculitis starts when hair follicles are damaged by friction from clothing, blockage of the follicle, shaving or too tight braids too close to the scalp. In most cases of folliculitis, the damaged follicles are then infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus (staph).

Treatment is topical antiseptic application and keeping the area clean and dry.Severe cases may need oral antibiotics.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[swink]

Thanks man. It makes a difference when i know what it is thats growing on my body..
So update...the puss is gone and i have no idea where it went and now there are just red bumps... does the bacteria always infect follicles?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

No,it is not necessary that the damaged follicles are always infected by bacteria.But the chances are high. Waxing removes the hair from root level, causing a minute tear at the base of the follicle, which may result in temporary bleeding if the hair is very tough and strong. Once the follicle is empty, bacteria can easily enter the empty follicle, which can then become infected resulting in folliculitis .You seem to be having mild fooliculitis which usually goes on its own.But some times,severe cases may be there which may require antibiotics.(Ref: http://www.beautyheaven.com.au/article/hair-free-and-healthy)

Next time,you go for waxing, be sure to get the hair pulled out by the roots. Use a skin cleanser before and after waxing and use an antibacterial soap or wash to help keep your skin clear of bacteria and lessen the chance of an infection.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing.