How to Use an Exfoliating Towel: Your Go-To Tool for Preventing Ingrowns
TL;DR: Why an Exfoliating Towel Is Your Secret Weapon Against Ingrown Hairs
An exfoliating towel works by clearing away dead skin that traps hair beneath the surface.
It’s best used on damp skin, using gentle pressure 2-3 times per week
Focus on areas prone to bumps and clogged pores
Avoid over-scrubbing at all costs (because nobody loves a compromised skin barrier)
Follow with soothing oil for best results
Consistency matters more than intensity
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If you’ve ever dealt with ingrown hairs after waxing or shaving, you already know how frustrating they can be. The good news? A simple tool like a quick-drying exfoliating towel can make a huge difference. By allowing hair to grow out instead of curling back in, you’ll avoid those dreaded little bumps and save yourself the trouble of trying to dig them out (which can lead to more damage and dark spots).
Luckily, our Ted D Bare waxers are here to share exactly how to use it to keep your skin smooth, clear, and bump-free, because we’re cool like that.
Why Should I Choose It Over Other Methods for Ingrown Hairs?
It’s simple: exfoliating towels stand out because they’re both effective and easy to control, not to mention quick-drying, which prevents bacterial buildup. Unlike harsh scrubs or chemical treatments, they give you physical exfoliation exactly where you need it, allowing you to customize the level of scrubbing you (and your skin) actually need.
Here’s why it’s the best exfoliator for ingrown hairs:
It prevents hair from getting trapped: Dead skin buildup is one of the main causes of ingrown hairs. Removing that layer allows hair to grow freely instead of curling under or getting trapped under your skin.
It improves skin texture: Regular use helps smooth rough patches and even out your skin tone over time.
It’s hygienic and reusable: Compared to loofahs or scrubs, exfoliating towels are quick drying and easy to clean, making them a more sanitary option.
It works for most skin types: Unless your skin is as delicate as a newborn’s, exfoliating cloths are a great tool for achieving a seriously enviable glow. Whether your skin is sensitive or resilient, you can adjust pressure to suit your comfort level.
At Ted D Bare, we’ve seen firsthand how consistent exfoliation dramatically reduces ingrowns between waxing appointments. When used properly, exfoliating towels are one of the most effective solutions for these and other post-waxing pain points (like dark spots and bumps). The key? Knowing how to use it right.
How to Use Exfoliating Cloths the Right Way
Step 1: Choose the right intensity
At Ted D Bare, we offer two options, each with a different level of abrasiveness: Passive, a softer option with embedded charcoal for detoxification and pore cleansing, and Aggressive, a tougher, more nuclear option when nothing else seems to be doing the trick.
Step 2: Start with clean, damp skin
Always use your exfoliating cloth in the shower or bath. Warm water softens the skin and hair, making exfoliation more effective and less irritating. Just make sure you’re clean as a whistle; you don’t want any bacteria or dirt to cling to your silky-soft skin.
Step 3: Apply gentle pressure
This is where most people go wrong. We know you’re excited, but you don’t actually need to scrub aggressively to get results. Use light to moderate pressure and let the texture of the exfoliating washcloth do the work.
Step 4: Use circular or upward motions
Move in small circles or gentle upward strokes. This helps lift trapped hairs and encourages proper hair growth direction, which in turn can actually make waxing easier, too.
Step 5: Focus on problem areas
You can totally use exfoliating towels all over your body (except your face). But when it comes to fighting off ingrowns, you’ll want to pay extra attention to spots prone to them, like the bikini line, underarms, and legs. These areas benefit the most from regular exfoliation.
Step 6: Rinse and moisturize
After exfoliating, it’s time to give your skin some TLC. Rinse yourself thoroughly and apply a hydrating dry oil if your skin needs some extra comfort. This keeps your skin barrier healthy and prevents potential irritation down the line.
Step 7: Stay consistent
We can’t stress this enough: consistency is key. The sweet spot is about 2–3 times per week; Contrary to popular belief, doing it more often won’t speed things up. In fact, overdoing it can cause irritation, while skipping it won’t give you results.
At Ted D Bare, we often tell clients that technique beats intensity every time. We know you’re excited, but a gentle, consistent routine will outperform aggressive scrubbing every time.
FAQs About Using an Exfoliating Towel
If I have sensitive skin, how often should I use an exfoliating cloth?
2–3 times per week is ideal for most people, but if your skin is sensitive, start once a week and increase gradually.
Can I use an exfoliating washcloth every day?
Absolutely, but again, go easy when you start out. Try using it every 2 days and then build up to every other day. If your skin reacts favorably, go ahead and try it daily. Just be sure to monitor your skin's reaction and adjust as needed.
Is this better than a scrub?
Yes, because scrubs in jars or tubs get water in them every time you scoop with wet hands, and that water sits in the product and grows bacteria. The stuff you're using to clear your skin is actually contaminated. Exfoliating towels rinse clean, dry fast, and don't sit in their own moisture. If you absolutely have to use a scrub, pick one in a tube so the squeeze format keeps water out. Tubs are a hard no.
When should I exfoliate after waxing?
Wait at least 48 hours before exfoliating to avoid irritating freshly waxed skin.
Can it help with other post-waxing marks, like dark spots and bumps?
Absolutely! Over time, regular exfoliation can improve skin texture and help fade discoloration by encouraging skin renewal, making it a great addition to your stellar aftercare routine.
Our Pro Tips For Better Results And Smoother, Silkier Skin
This simple scrubbing cloth is one of the easiest ways to upgrade your skincare routine and prevent ingrown hairs. The key is using it gently, consistently, and at the right times. Our team of expert speed waxers always recommends pairing proper exfoliation with a consistent waxing routine for the best results.
We’re no gatekeepers, so these are a few of our top tips:
Exfoliate between waxing appointments: Wait at least 48 hours after waxing before exfoliating. This gives your skin time to calm down and reduces irritation.
Don’t overdo it: More is not better. Over-exfoliating can damage your skin barrier and actually make ingrowns worse.
Pair with professional waxing: Proper hair removal technique matters. When waxing is done correctly, hair grows back finer and is less likely to become ingrown.
Keep your tools clean: Rinse your towel thoroughly after each use and let it dry completely. Replace it regularly to avoid icky bacterial buildup.
Choose the best exfoliating towel for your skin: Some options are more abrasive than others. If you have sensitive skin, start with a softer option and work your way up if needed.
At Ted D Bare, we believe great skin isn’t about complicated routines; it’s about doing the basics really well. Pair regular exfoliation with expert waxing, and you’ll see a noticeable difference in how your skin looks and feels.
Ready to level up your results? Book your next appointment with Ted D Bare and let our team help you stay smooth, confident, and ingrown-free, and make sure to check out our blog for more answers on anything (and everything) you’ve ever wanted to know about waxing in San Jose.
