Waxing and Herpes: Should You Worry About Catching a ‘Bad Romance’?

Make sure the establishment you visit follows the rules that keep you safe. Ask for disposable equipment (tools), and make sure the wax is not REUSED!

Gynaecologists all agree that the chances of catching an STD from waxing are extremely slim, or IMPOSSIBLE.

First of all, the herpes virus cannot survive outside the human body for a long enough period of time. In addition, the waxing pot has a very high temperature that will kill the bacteria, or virus if it was to make its way to the pot. DOUBLE DIPPING (using the same stick more than once) does NOT increase the risk, but for safety’s sake, we make sure your therapist uses a NEW STICK every application.

The stick is the same concept as nail polish, a person can have hepatitis and the brush touches their cuticles then the brush goes back into the bottle. But the bottle has so many chemicals in there it’s impossible for bacteria to survive.

Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). While it is primarily spread through sexual contact, it can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person’s sores or blisters. In the context of waxing, the risk of herpes transmission is generally low, but it is not completely impossible.

Waxing involves the removal of hair from the skin using a sticky substance that adheres to the hair and pulls it out at the root. During the waxing process, the skin may become slightly irritated or inflamed, creating tiny openings on the skin’s surface. If the waxing is done in an unhygienic setting or with contaminated equipment, there is a possibility that the herpes virus could be transmitted through these openings.

It is important to note, however, that the risk of transmission is generally low if proper precautions are taken. Reputable waxing salons such as Brazilian Butterfly will use clean and sanitized equipment and will also use disposable single-use items such as gloves, applicators, and strips to minimize the risk of infection. If you have a history of herpes or are concerned about the risk of transmission, it is recommended that you discuss your concerns with the waxing professional prior to the procedure. They may recommend taking antiviral medication before and after the waxing to reduce the risk of transmission.

Additionally, it is essential to note that there are two types of herpes viruses, HSV-1 and HSV-2. While HSV-1 is typically associated with oral herpes (cold sores), it can also cause genital herpes through oral sex. HSV-2 is the more common cause of genital herpes. If you have oral herpes, it is essential to avoid touching the affected area during the waxing process to prevent the virus from spreading to the genital area.

MEDICAL PROFECIONAL- H. Hunter Handsfield, MD. Feb 26th, 2005

Saying there is ZERO risk from bikini waxing (or from a massage, or from a toilet seat, and so on) is impossible. I can imagine a scenario in which it might occur: Waxer has oral herpes, contaminates hand with saliva, and immediately with a substantial amount of wet saliva still on the fingers, pulls off the wax and then uses the wet fingers to massage the quivering, reddened, crying-in-pain skin (How can you DO that??) Bingo, herpes. But does it happen? Your odds of winning the lottery are better. In 30 years in this business, I have never seen a case of genital herpes in an adult that wasn’t explainable by SEX. You should EXPECT common sense hygiene from anybody performing a personal service with physical contact with your body. Otherwise, don’t lose sleep over it.

Overall, the risk of herpes transmission through waxing is generally low if proper precautions are taken. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and take appropriate measures to minimize them. If you are concerned about the risk of transmission, it is always best to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional or your Brazilian butterfly waxing professional before undergoing the procedure. They can provide you with guidance and recommendations based on your individual needs and circumstances.