Tired of Shaving? Here's Everything You Should Know About Waxing Your Legs

No matter what area of the body you're getting waxed, the first step in preparing for your appointment is growing out your hair. It may seem counterintuitive to let your hair get longer just when you're thinking of getting rid of it, but the hair has to be a certain length for the wax to grab.

"We recommend hair be at least 1/4-inch long (about the size of a sprinkle), so it's a good idea to stop shaving at least five days prior to your reservation," said Petak. "If you are going to exfoliate your skin, use a film-free (meaning it rinses off clean and doesn't leave skin coated in oil) exfoliant 24 to 48 hours before your wax."

You have options when it comes to how much of your legs you want to wax. You can just do your upper legs (your thighs), your lower legs, or the full leg. Each one has a different price associated with it. For a full-leg service, prepare to sit for 30 minutes.

Immediately after leg waxing, you will find that they look a little red and spotty — this is totally normal and should go away within the day. After your service, there are two main things you should worry about: exfoliating and moisturizing. "Dead skin tends to accumulate faster on your legs, especially in drier weather, so it's important to exfoliate away dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs from forming," said Petak.

Waxing sessions are spread out to allow your hair to regrow. It varies by person, but appointments are usually three to four weeks apart. During this time, you should allow your hair to grow to the 1/4-inch length.

Because waxing removes the hair at the root, you will see longer results than with shaving. It depends on the person, but it can last about a week after your first session.

For many, the whole point of waxing is to thin out your hair over time. "You are going to notice visible results immediately; the hair will grow in thinner and softer," Petak said. "However, since there are many hair follicles on your legs, it may take waxing a few sessions for a super-smooth result." The more routinely you wax, the better results you'll see.

Many of us start to think about hair removal in the late spring, but, much like laser hair removal, you should start in the winter or early spring months. "Leg services are very popular year-round," said Petak, but the earlier the better, "so when summer comes, you are ready for shorts every day without the hassle of shaving."

Just keep in mind the required hair length for waxing — you may find it less than ideal to have to let your hair grow out in the middle of beach season.

"Waxing can be uncomfortable, especially for those with low pain tolerance," said Petak. "However, since waxing removes the hair from the root, it makes it grow in softer and finer, resulting in each wax becoming less painful and more comfortable." Everyone is different, but waxing your legs is by no means unbearable. Think of it this way: once you make it through your first appointment, it only gets easier.

"Additionally, a high-quality wax can help make the experience more comfortable," Petak said. Talk to your salon before your appointment if you want to know what type of wax they use and discuss your options.