BRAZILIAN AND BIKINI WAXING FAQ
What's the difference between a Bikini vs. Brazilian wax?
These are often used interchangeably, but we want to go ahead and give you an idea of the true difference is:
Bikini - This is just a cleanup. Waxing the sides (any hair outside the panty line) and across the top.
Modern Bikini - Take off as much or as little hair as you like from the front. Leave a strip or nothing at all! *This does not include the labia (middle) or backside.
Brazilian - This includes from front to back, including the bunny tail (backside). You can remove all the hair or leave a little bit behind; it's all up to you!
We completely understand that only some people want to remove everything and never feel like it is a requirement. Brazilian waxing is a personal and very intimate wax. Our job is to make you feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible.
Will it hurt?
Let's be honest for a moment. The truth is that, yes, it will hurt as you are removing hair from the follicle. However, as experienced professionals, we take great care in making the process quick and as painless as possible. A few suggestions to help ease the pain factor are:
Schedule your appointment one week after your menstrual cycle. You may find it a tad more painful by scheduling your appointment near your ovulation or menstrual cycle.
Take a pain reliever at least 20 minutes before your appointment. This will help with any swelling or discomfort during the wax session.
Limit your caffeine intake on the day of your appointment. Caffeine puts your nerves on high alert; this combination with waxing can cause a lot of anxiety. If you have a cup of coffee in the morning, schedule your appointment for the afternoon. You'll want to wait at least 3 hours for the caffeine to leave your body stream.
Lastly, speak up. If you're experiencing a lot of pain, you must communicate with your esthetician throughout your wax session. If you need a break, let's take a break for a moment.
What should I expect after my wax?
If it is your first time getting waxed, you may experience some discomfort for an hour or up to a day after your wax. Those with coarser hair may feel sensitivity during and/or soreness post-wax for a day or two. It's important to avoid wearing tight clothing such as jeans or leggings if this is your first wax. Again, the best way to minimize the pain is to take a pain reliever 20 minutes before your appointment. First-time waxers will go home with a post-wax kit that includes a solution to help soothe and calm. You may also apply a cool compress to the area until the redness is gone. This may be needed for the first few waxes until you become familiar with and adjust to the waxing. Once you are a regular, you'll find the wax sessions quick and not as painful as your first wax.
How long should I wait for my first wax?
This is an excellent question that we often get from first-time waxers. If you have been shaving for a long time, you'll find that getting your first Brazilian wax takes a little prep time. You'll want to wait at least 2-3 weeks once you have shaved before your first appointment. We highly discourage waxing for the first time before a major life event, such as a wedding or vacation. Instead, we recommend scheduling two wax appointments before your event. The first one will be uncomfortable and will help familiarize you with the service. The second will be much less painful and will prepare you for your event.
Can I use a numbing cream beforehand?
I would not suggest using a numbing cream before your wax. It can interfere with the application of wax as it leaves behind a film on the skin. Sometimes the creams may also irritate the skin due to the ingredients. It may seem like a good idea but stay away from the numbing creams or sprays.
What if I start my period before my appointment?
It's perfectly OK to get waxed while on your period. Just a couple of points should you choose to wax during your cycle
1.) it will be much more painful than usual.
2.) You must wear a clean tampon. Again, taking a pain reliever 20 minutes before your appointment may help.
Is it okay to wax if I'm pregnant?
Yes, it's okay to wax if you are pregnant. However, you should clear it with your doctor beforehand. Waxing during your pregnancy will be much more sensitive during and after your wax. Unfortunately, we cannot perform a full Brazilian if you are over eight months pregnant and have never received a wax. The skin is much too sensitive and engorged at this point to wax safely. However, we may be able to perform a bikini wax without issue.
How long will it last after I get waxed?
A common question from many first-time waxers, unfortunately, this question is a challenging one to answer. It all depends on your hair type, how long you've been shaving and what stage your hair growth is in. Shaved hair will tend to grow back in just a few days. When shaving for an extended period, the hair needs time to grow back in fully. Shaving cuts the hair at the thickest part, making the first-time wax not as smooth. Achieving a smoother wax will take at least 2-3 wax sessions. Patience goes will pay off, we promise!
A minimum of 3-4 weeks of regrowth is ideal for those shaving; this will allow all the hair to grow back in.
Have more questions? Please send them our way via our contact form.