WAX ON, WAX OFF

Strip away unwanted hair and minimize the painful yelps with these tips from Jessie Frampton, co-founder of the nationwide Fuzz Wax Bar. 1. Exfoliate the day before to remove dead skin cells — the wax will adhere better for easy and successful removal. Avène Gentle Body Scrub, $25, shoppersdrugmart.ca 2. Wash your skin right before waxing to remove oil and dirt, and note the direction of hair growth. 3. Working in small sections, apply the wax in the same direction as the hair grows. Keep skin taut and rip off the wax strip quickly in the opposite direction of hair growth, while staying close and parallel to the skin. This will help avoid bruising, lifting or pinching the skin, and prevent the hair from breaking. Apply pressure to the area for a few seconds to ease the pain. 4. To prevent sweat-induced skin irritation, like redness and hives, avoid working out 24 hours after you've removed the hair and wear loose-fitting clothes. 5. After waxing, moisturize daily with a gentle, fragrance-free lotion to avoid irritation, and try to exfoliate regularly.