Waxing on a Southeast Asia Trip: 8 Before and After Tips to Reduce Discomfort (Ho Chi Minh City)

Along with massage, waxing is one of the most popular things to do on a Southeast Asia trip. Doing it while travelling saves time, but if it is your first time the biggest worry is usually, “Will it hurt a lot?” This guide from Linh Lan Waxing in District 1, Saigon shares eight before and after tips that can help make waxing more comfortable. Pain and skin reactions vary from person to person, so please treat this as a general guide.

Before waxing

① Gently exfoliate 2 to 3 days before: Lightly removing dead skin with a soft scrub helps wax reach the hair cleanly. Use light pressure so you do not irritate the skin.

② Moisturise the day before, but not on the day: Moisturise so skin is not dry, then skip moisturiser and oil on the day of your treatment. A layer on the skin can stop wax from sticking to the hair.

During waxing

③ Book a time when you feel relaxed: Many people feel less tense in the afternoon or evening than early in the morning. Choose a slot where you have downtime in your itinerary. Walk-ins are welcome at Linh Lan (you may need to wait if we are fully booked), open daily 10:30–20:00.

④ Relax: Tension can make pain feel stronger. Breathe slowly during treatment and chat lightly with your therapist if it helps.

⑤ Tell us what worries you: If it is your first time, let us know when you book. We choose the method by area and skin (strips for larger areas, hard wax for small, sensitive areas such as the bikini line and face) and explain the steps.

After waxing

⑥ Soothe the skin: Skin may look red or feel sensitive right after. If it is irritated, Linh Lan finishes with cooling air (about -30°C). At home, you can lightly press an ice pack wrapped in a towel.

⑦ Avoid hot water and tight clothes: On the day, avoid hot showers, saunas and tight clothing. Loose clothes are more comfortable for a few days.

⑧ From a week later, exfoliate and moisturise: Once skin has settled, gently exfoliate once or twice a week and moisturise daily to keep skin smooth.

Planning waxing around your trip

Ho Chi Minh City is hot and humid all year, which is why many travellers look for waxing. Skin can be sensitive right after, so avoid scheduling it right before beach, pool or golf days, or right before a flight. See Waxing while travelling in Vietnam for itinerary tips.

About Linh Lan Waxing

Linh Lan Waxing offers waxing and laser hair removal at 79 Pasteur, District 1 (L2). Therapists wear masks and medical-grade gloves and use single-use sticks, and tools are kept in a UV steriliser. We have two treatment beds, so couples or friends can be treated together. Korean is supported with a translator.

Related: Waxing in Vietnam: before you go · Waxing aftercare A to Z · Brazilian vs bikini waxing · Price list

Frequently asked questions

What is the easiest way to reduce waxing discomfort?

Gentle exfoliation beforehand, moisturising the day before, a relaxed time slot, staying calm and telling us your worries are the basics. Pain varies by person.

Can I use numbing cream?

It depends on your skin. If you are thinking of using it, please ask us before your appointment.

When during my trip should I get waxed?

Avoid the time right before beach or pool plans and right before a flight. Pick a day with some downtime afterwards.

How do I book?

Walk-ins are welcome at Linh Lan, but you may need to wait if we are fully booked. Booking ahead is the surest way to get your preferred time. Message us on KakaoTalk (ID: linhlanwaxing), Zalo or WhatsApp. Please change or cancel up to one day before.