• Waruni Dissanayake of Voskom Colombo on standing out in a growing market

For many people, waxing is less about beauty and more about convenience, confidence, and finding a therapist they trust. At Voskom Colombo in Nugegoda Founder Waruni Dissanayake has built a loyal clientele by focusing on exactly that – speed, hygiene, comfort, and consistency.

What began as a small waxing studio has evolved into a dedicated salon specialising in professional waxing services, attracting clients almost entirely through recommendations. Years after first speaking with Brunch, we caught up with Dissanayake to learn how the business has grown, the latest trends in hair removal, and the importance of proper aftercare.

Built on trust

"People today are much more informed about skincare than they were a few years ago," Dissanayake said. "Clients aren't just asking for hair removal anymore – they want treatments that are kinder to their skin, reduce ingrown hairs, and give longer-lasting results."

Unlike shaving, which cuts hair at the skin's surface, waxing removes it from the root. According to Dissanayake, regular waxing can gradually result in finer, softer regrowth, while also reducing the appearance of stubborn stubble.

"Consistency is key," she explained. "When clients maintain a regular waxing schedule, they usually notice that hair grows back more slowly and often feels much softer."

Speed without compromise

One of Voskom's biggest strengths continues to be efficiency. A Brazilian wax, which can often take 15 minutes or longer elsewhere, is completed in as little as five to seven minutes while maintaining close attention to detail.

"The quicker I work, the more comfortable the experience is for the client," she said. "But speed should never come at the expense of quality. I always make sure every last hair is removed, even if that means finishing with tweezers."

This balance of speed and precision has helped the salon develop an exceptionally loyal customer base, many of whom have been returning for years.

Choosing the right wax

Voskom offers several varieties of hot wax tailored to different skin types and concerns. Their oil-based wax remains popular for clients with dry skin or frequent ingrown hairs, while the salon's premium luxury wax is often recommended for brides or anyone seeking the gentlest possible experience.

"The luxury wax grips even the finest hairs while being very gentle on sensitive skin," Dissanayake explained. "It's ideal before weddings, holidays or special occasions when clients want the smoothest possible finish."

She noted that temporary redness or small bumps immediately after waxing are completely normal.

"Waxing is an exfoliating treatment as well as hair removal, so some skin will naturally react," she said. "Most redness settles within a few hours, although more sensitive skin may take a day or two."

Aftercare matters

To minimise irritation, Dissanayake advises clients to gently exfoliate 24 hours before their appointment, avoid heavy lotions or oils beforehand, and ensure hair has grown to an appropriate length.

After the appointment, she recommends avoiding hot showers, saunas, intense exercise, swimming pools and heavily fragranced skincare products for at least 24 hours.

"A simple aloe vera gel is usually one of the best products you can use after waxing because it cools and calms the skin," she said.

Hygiene first

Hygiene remains one of the salon's core priorities. Disposable bed coverings are changed after every client, treatment areas are sanitised between appointments, and strict hygiene protocols are followed throughout every service.

"As professionals, clients trust us with their skin," Dissanayake said. "Maintaining high hygiene standards isn't optional – it's part of providing a safe and professional service."

Looking ahead

Looking ahead, Dissanayake hopes to continue growing Voskom while maintaining the personalised service that helped build its reputation.

"I've always believed that clients remember how you make them feel," she reflected. "If someone leaves feeling comfortable, cared for and confident, they'll always come back."

Whether it's a first-time wax or part of a regular self-care routine, Voskom continues to demonstrate that professional waxing is about far more than hair removal – it's about creating an experience that leaves clients feeling comfortable from beginning to end.