Waxing After 40: How Your Body (and Hair) Changes with Age

Turning 40 doesn't mean your waxing routine needs to stop—in fact, many clients tell us waxing actually gets easier as they age. But your body does go through some changes that affect hair growth, skin sensitivity, and how you should approach your waxing appointments.

At Waxology Weho, we've worked with clients of all ages, and we've seen firsthand how waxing evolves as you move through different life stages. Here's what you need to know about waxing after 40.

Your Hair Is Changing (And That's Actually Good News)

One of the most noticeable changes after 40 is that your hair growth slows down. This happens because of shifting hormone levels, particularly the gradual decline in estrogen and progesterone. For waxing, this is mostly a positive thing.

You'll probably notice that your hair grows back slower between appointments. What used to require a wax every 4 weeks might now last 5 or even 6 weeks. The hair that does grow back tends to be finer and less dense, making removal easier and less uncomfortable.

Some women also notice changes in where hair grows. You might see less hair on your legs but more on your face, particularly the chin and upper lip. This is completely normal and happens because of the changing ratio between estrogen and testosterone in your body.

Why Waxing Gets Easier as You Age

Here's some genuinely good news: most people find waxing becomes less painful after 40. There are a few reasons for this.

First, if you've been waxing regularly for years, your hair follicles have weakened significantly. The hair comes out more easily because it's finer and the root isn't as strongly anchored. Second, slower hair growth means less hair to remove during each session, which naturally makes the process quicker and more comfortable.

Many of our long-term clients at Waxology Weho report that their appointments are faster and easier now than they were in their 20s and 30s. That's the benefit of staying consistent with your waxing routine over time.

Skin Sensitivity and Hormonal Changes

While hair removal might get easier, your skin does become more delicate with age. Collagen production slows down, which means your skin loses some of its elasticity and becomes thinner. This requires a slightly gentler approach to waxing.

At Waxology Weho, we adjust our techniques for mature skin. We use hard wax formulas that grip the hair rather than the skin, minimizing irritation. We also work in smaller sections and keep the skin taut during removal to prevent bruising or discomfort.

Your skin might also become drier as you age, which can make waxing feel more uncomfortable. Keeping your skin well-moisturized in the days leading up to your appointment makes a significant difference.

Perimenopause and Menopause: What to Expect

If you're going through perimenopause or menopause, you'll notice some specific changes in your hair growth patterns. Hot flashes, night sweats, and hormonal fluctuations can all affect how your skin responds to waxing.

During perimenopause, your hormone levels fluctuate wildly. You might find that some months your hair grows quickly and other months it barely grows at all. This is frustrating but temporary. Once you're fully through menopause and your hormones stabilize at their new levels, your hair growth will become more predictable again.

Many women notice increased facial hair during this time, particularly on the chin, upper lip, and jawline. Waxing remains an excellent option for managing this growth. Regular appointments keep things under control and prevent you from having to think about it constantly.

Special Considerations for Mature Skin

If you're waxing after 40, there are a few adjustments that can improve your experience. Avoid retinol and other strong exfoliating products for at least 48 hours before your appointment. These products thin your skin and make it more susceptible to irritation.

Stay extra hydrated in the week leading up to your wax. Drink plenty of water and use a good moisturizer daily. Hydrated skin is more resilient and tolerates waxing better.

Consider scheduling your appointments during times when your skin is least sensitive. Many women find the week after their period is ideal, as hormone levels are more stable and pain tolerance is higher.

Medications and Skin Health

Some medications commonly prescribed to women over 40 can affect how your skin responds to waxing. Blood thinners, for example, can make you more prone to bruising. Certain blood pressure medications can make your skin more sensitive.

Always let your esthetician at Waxology Weho know about any medications you're taking. We can adjust our techniques or recommend alternative hair removal methods if needed.

If you're using prescription retinoids or undergoing certain dermatological treatments, you may need to pause waxing temporarily or choose a different hair removal method for specific areas.

You might also like: The Real Reasons Men Choose Waxing (And Why You Should Too)

The Emotional Side: Confidence at Any Age

Beyond the physical changes, there's an emotional component to maintaining your grooming routine as you age. Many women tell us that keeping up with waxing makes them feel confident and put-together, regardless of what else is changing in their bodies.

There's something empowering about taking care of yourself in this way. It's a form of self-care that has visible, immediate results. Whether you're heading to the beach, getting ready for a special occasion, or just want to feel good in your own skin, waxing helps you feel like yourself.

Adjusting Your Routine for Best Results

As you age, you might find that your waxing needs change. Maybe you need facial waxing more frequently but body waxing less often. Perhaps you want to add services you never needed before, like chin or upper lip waxing.

That's perfectly normal. Your waxing routine should evolve with your body. At Waxology Weho, we work with you to create a customized plan that addresses your current needs, not what worked for you ten years ago.

The Bottom Line on Waxing After 40

Getting older doesn't mean giving up smooth skin. In many ways, waxing becomes easier and more convenient as you age. Yes, your skin needs gentler care, and yes, your hair growth patterns will shift. But with the right techniques and proper skincare, you can maintain beautiful, smooth skin at any age.

Ready to experience professional waxing tailored to mature skin? Book your appointment at Waxology Weho today, and let our experienced team show you how good waxing can feel at any stage of life.