Brazilian Wax: What You Need to Know Before Getting It

 

Getting a Brazilian wax is like getting ready to do something really adventurous for the first time, like taking your first flight or diving into the deep end of the pool. At first, it might seem a bit scary, but when you hear others talking about how great it feels afterward, it makes you curious to give it a try, even though you might feel a bit nervous at first.

If you’re thinking about trying out a Brazilian wax or any kind of waxing for the first time, you’re in the right place. We know that it can be a bit intimidating to take the plunge, so we’ve put together this guide to help answer all your questions. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about Brazilian waxing.

What is Brazilian Wax?

Well, when you get a regular bikini wax, it usually involves the removal of the hair around your bikini line, but with a Brazilian wax, the procedure is even a step further. This means they take off all the hair from your bikini area, including the hair around your labia (the inner and outer lips of your vagina), the area above your “split” or clitoral fold, and even the hair between your buttocks – basically, they remove all the hair from down there.

What is a Full Brazilian Wax?

You might think that a Brazilian wax means removing all the hair, but you actually have options. You can choose to leave a small strip of hair in the front (called a landing strip) or a tiny triangle if you prefer. So, even though Brazilian wax means getting rid of all the hair from your bikini area and buttocks, opting for complete hair removal is what some people call a “full Brazilian wax.” It really depends on what you’re comfortable with and what you prefer.

How To Prepare For A Brazilian Wax

Preparing for a Brazilian wax doesn’t have to be complicated, but it’s important to do it right for the best results. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get ready:

Let your hair grow:

To make sure the wax can grab onto your hair properly, it’s best to let it grow out to at least a quarter of an inch, which is about the size of a sprinkle. Try to avoid shaving for at least five days before your appointment. Don’t worry about your hair being too long – it’s better for the waxing process if it’s a bit longer.

Exfoliate

Before your appointment, it’s a good idea to exfoliate your skin to get rid of any dead skin cells. This helps the wax adhere better to your skin and can reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. Use an exfoliant that doesn’t leave your skin oily, and try to do it 24 to 48 hours before your wax.

Watch what you drink:

On the day of your appointment, try to avoid caffeine and alcohol. While it might seem tempting to have a drink to calm your nerves, alcohol can thin your blood, which might make the waxing process more painful. Caffeine can also make your skin more sensitive, so it’s best to skip it on waxing day.

What Happens During The Brazilian Waxing Process?

The process of getting a Brazilian wax is pretty straightforward. Once you’re in the treatment room, your esthetician will apply a layer of wax to your clean skin in the areas where you want the hair removed. Then, they’ll quickly remove the wax, along with the hair, leaving you with smooth skin.

There are two main types of wax that estheticians use for Brazilian waxes: strip wax and hard wax. Strip wax requires a fabric strip to be placed on top of the wax before it’s removed, while hard wax hardens on its own and is removed without a strip.

Hard wax is often preferred for Brazilian waxes because it’s less painful, but strip wax can be better for grabbing smaller, finer hairs that hard wax might miss.

Brazilian Wax vs Bikini Wax

The main contrast between a Brazilian wax and a bikini wax boils down to how much hair gets removed. A bikini wax focuses solely on tidying up the hair along the bikini line, shaping or removing some hair to maintain a neater appearance outside of the more intimate regions.

However, the process for both types of waxing is quite similar. Both Brazilian and bikini waxes involve using warm wax to eliminate unwanted hair, administered by skilled professionals. The wax is applied to the skin, swiftly removed, and pulls out the hair from the root. While the results aren’t permanent and hair will eventually grow again, it may take some time before you notice any regrowth.

Drawbacks of a Brazilian Wax

Besides the discomfort experienced during the treatment itself, potential side effects may include temporary redness, discoloration, bumps, and the dreaded ingrown hairs. Fortunately, these effects usually subside within a few days.

We advise against Brazilian waxing for individuals with highly sensitive skin, those using medications like oral retinoids, or individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.

Is Brazilian Wax Painful?

Unfortunately, getting a Brazilian wax does involve some level of discomfort due to the sensitivity of the area being waxed. However, the level of pain varies from person to person. Some may experience mild to moderate discomfort, while others may feel brief sharp pain or tenderness.

The good news is there are several ways to minimize discomfort. Consider taking a pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) about 30 minutes to an hour before your waxing appointment, or applying over-the-counter lidocaine cream just before the treatment to reduce sensitivity. You can also try using an ice pack before the procedure for additional relief.

Some individuals find that the pain lessens with each subsequent waxing session, but it’s crucial to communicate openly with your esthetician. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns or discomfort you may have – the skin professionals are there to ensure you have a comfortable experience and leave feeling confident and satisfied.

Can I DIY Brazilian Wax at Home?

You might find yourself considering the prospect of doing your own Brazilian wax at home. The allure of saving money and taking control of your hair removal routine might be strong, but we strongly caution against attempting this DIY endeavor whenever possible. 

Here’s why:

1. Lack of Expertise and Equipment:

Chances are, you don’t have the same level of expertise, knowledge, or access to professional-grade tools that licensed estheticians do. Without the proper skills and equipment, you may struggle to achieve the desired results and could potentially put yourself at risk of injury or discomfort.

2. Difficulty Reaching Certain Areas:

Let’s face it, certain areas of your body are tricky to reach on your own, especially when it comes to a thorough Brazilian wax. Trying to maneuver and wax these areas solo can be challenging and may not yield the desired outcome.

3. Potential for Adverse Reactions:

DIY waxing products may not be formulated or tested as rigorously as those used by professionals. As a result, you could be more susceptible to adverse reactions such as skin irritation, burns, or allergic reactions.

Instead of taking matters into your own hands, it’s wise to entrust the task of Brazilian waxing to a licensed professional. They have the expertise, experience, and proper tools to ensure a safe and effective waxing experience.

While the cost of professional waxing services may vary depending on your location and the specific facility, the investment is often justified by the remarkably smooth skin and minimal irritation you’ll experience. Investing in professional waxing can also save you the hassle and potential mishaps that come with attempting it at home.

Photo: Leonardo Marinho/Unsplash