The Waiting Room

In continuing my quest Bring on the Wonder for 2011, I decided to try something that I was curious and afraid to do.

Getting my legs waxed.

I've had my eyebrows waxed a couple of times, which is no big deal. But, I had heard stories that this was quite painful. I mean, come on, who wants a total stranger ripping out their leg hair? Owie doesn't begin to describe it. And, what about the risk of infection?

On the flip-side, shaving isn't fun either. You can get nicks and cuts just as easily, especially if you are in a hurry. And, unless you are in a bathtub, one must be part contortionist to do a decent job.

For me, the reason to consider waxing was because of the RA. Bending and contorting myself can be quite difficult first thing in the morning or when I have a flare. Additionally, even the slights cut or nick can leave a pretty noticeable scar. This is due mainly to the medications I must take. Those of you who know me IRL know that I have some significant scars on my legs from cuts and bug bits that have not healed well.  I am very self-conscious of my scars. I have tried numerous cosmetics, even tattoo coverage products, to cover them. With my skin tone, I have a hard time finding the right blend.

So, rather than go like the Germans, I thought I would give waxing a shot.

There is an awesome day spa near my house. I've had manis, pedis and facials there. I spoke to the owner who has seen my scars when doing the hand and foot treatments said that it would be possible for me to do waxing. She suggested that I have it done up to the knee, to see if I like it. She said to make sure that I was not in an RA flare, so as not to magnify the pain.

And, to let my leg hair grow for two weeks.   Eep.

So, I waited the two weeks. I thought my legs looked like I was a female Sasquatch. The esthetician told me that my leg hair was only 1/8 inch long and fine. She said that this was a good thing because it will not hurt as much.

OK, I think...

She had me lay down on a table, with my legs bent. She applied the hot wax, which was actually not very hot at all. Given that I am cold most of the time, it really didn't bother me. Then I hard that sound I'd been dreading...

RRRRRRRRIIIIIIPPPPPP!!!!!!!!

I was surprised that it did not hurt much as I thought. It felt like I had a piece of tape stuck to me and I had to rip it off. The pain was about a "1" on a scale of 1-10. For me, that's not big deal. I've had RA pain that is waaaaaaaay worse. And, let's not forget my weekly, very painful, injections.

It only took about 20 minutes for her to do both legs to the knee, front and back. She was very nice and chatted with me, mostly to make me feel comfortable. That really did help. She applied a organic lotion to soothe and calm my skin.

In the end, I walked out with the. smoothest. legs. ever.  No pain or discomfort.  No signs of cuts or infection.

I think I am a convert.  Maybe a bikini wax next?