What Is “Double Dipping” in Waxing — And Why It Should Never Happen

If you've ever had a waxing treatment or are thinking about booking one, you may have heard the term "double dipping" — but what does it actually mean? And why is it such a big deal in the world of professional waxing?

In this blog, I’ll explain what double dipping is, why it’s considered bad practice, and what you should expect from a clean, safe waxing treatment.

What Is Double Dipping?

Double dipping is when the same spatula is used to apply wax to a client’s skin, then dipped back into the pot of wax again for more product — and used over and over throughout the treatment.

It might sound harmless at first, but here’s the problem: once that spatula has touched the skin, it may carry bacteria, sweat, or even traces of blood back into the wax pot. If that spatula is dipped again, it can contaminate the whole pot. That same wax may then be used on another area of your body — or even worse, on another client.

Why It’s Bad Practice

In a professional salon, hygiene is just as important as the treatment itself. Double dipping breaks basic hygiene rules and increases the risk of:

• Bacterial infection
• Cross-contamination between body areas
• Irritation or breakouts after waxing
• Skin conditions being spread between clients

At Honeys, we would never double dip. Instead, we use single-use wooden spatulas or roller heads that never go back into the wax pot once they’ve touched your skin. It’s a small step that makes a big difference to your safety and peace of mind.

Areas Where It’s Most Concerning

Double dipping is especially risky in intimate waxing, such as bikini, Brazilian or Hollywood treatments, as these areas are more sensitive and prone to irritation or infection. But it’s just as important for underarms, face, and legs too. No matter which part of your body is being waxed, the standard should always be the same — clean, professional, and safe.

What You Can Do as a Client

You have every right to ask your therapist how they manage hygiene. If you're unsure, here are some things to watch for:

✅ Your therapist should use a new spatula for each application
✅ They should never put the used spatula back into the pot
✅ The wax pot should be clean, covered, and clearly labelled
✅ Fresh gloves, clean towels, and sanitised surfaces should be used every time

If you spot double dipping or feel unsure about the cleanliness of your waxing setup, it’s okay to speak up or walk away. Your safety always comes first.

Double dipping might save time or product, but it’s not worth the risk. At Honeys, we’re committed to giving you smooth, long-lasting results in a clean, professional environment where hygiene is never an afterthought.

If you're ready for a waxing experience that puts your wellbeing first, we’d love to welcome you. Book your appointment today and feel the difference.