Waxing, especially in the pubic or genital regions, is a very common grooming practice. Many people do it for aesthetic, hygienic, or cultural reasons.
But there are real risks to skin integrity and infection, and some evidence suggests that certain sexually transmitted infections or skin infections that behave like STIs might be more likely when waxing is involved.
To understand how waxing might increase risk of an STI or a skin infection, it helps to see what waxing does to the skin. Waxing pulls out hair from the root, which can damage the top layers of the skin. Even when it does not visibly bleed, the barrier function of the skin is weakened.
Sometimes waxing causes bleeding, especially if the skin is thin or sensitive. Any break in the skin gives pathogens such as viruses or bacteria a point of entry. If the tools or wax used are contaminated, or if salons reuse spatulas and do not follow proper hygiene, infection can spread more easily.
Several infections have been associated with pubic hair removal. Molluscum contagiosum, a viral skin infection that causes small bumps, is more common among people who wax. Human papillomavirus, which causes genital warts, has also been linked to waxing because broken skin provides a pathway for infection. Herpes simplex virus has been reported in cases following salon waxing, especially when contaminated tools are suspected. Waxing can also increase the risk of bacterial infections such as folliculitis or abscesses if bacteria enter through damaged skin.
It is important to note that many studies are observational and cannot prove direct causation. People who groom or wax may also have different sexual behaviors, such as more partners, which could increase exposure to infection. The risk also depends on how and where the waxing is done. A clean salon with sterile tools is much safer than one with poor hygiene practices.
Medical journals have reported real cases of people developing molluscum contagiosum or herpes after waxing, with contaminated tools or wax suspected as the source. A systematic review has also shown a link between pubic hair removal and higher rates of certain skin related STIs in women.
The risks can be reduced with precautions. Choosing a reputable salon with high hygiene standards is important. Spatulas should not be reused in the same wax pot, and all tools should be properly sterilized. The skin should be clean and free of irritation before waxing. Aftercare matters as well; the area should be kept clean and protected while the skin heals. Watching out for warning signs like swelling, pus, fever, or unusual pain is crucial, and medical advice should be sought if symptoms appear.
Yes, there is credible evidence that waxing can increase the risk of contracting some sexually transmitted or skin infections, especially when hygiene is poor or the skin barrier is damaged. The risk is not inevitable, and safe practices and proper care can greatly reduce it.