The response to skin therapies like sunless tanning and waxing is different from patient to patient because of biological variables. For example, when we speak of recommend drug doses, we calculate the dose based on the individual 's weight. To determine the "who, when, how and why" of the skin we also need to have criteria to help predict suitability and effectiveness of a specific procedure. A variety of classification methods have been developed to assist us, the simplest of which is the classification of skin condition (normal, dry sensitive, combination). While important, classifying skin condition is not vital in the assessment for laser hair removal or other hair removal therapies, like waxing. Skin typing is a more detailed classification that defining skin condition. It gives indications as to how a certain skin type will react to various treatment conditions. The condition of the skin is especially important for an effective waxing service. This is particularly true of soft wax, which adheres to the surface of the skin and less so for hard wax, which does not. Skin that is dry may present with scaly patches of dead skin cells that may benefit from the exfoliating properties of soft waxing, but the dry skin may also trap multiple hairs that should be released with exfoliation prior to the service. Very moist or hydrated skin can also be problematic as the moisture inhibits the wax from adhering to the skin and from being left behind during the removal process. Continuous dusting with powder during the service helps alleviate the problem.
