I could list all the reasons why waxing your bikini line is far superior to shaving, but you probably already know all the reasons. Instead, I think sharing tips for a more comfortable waxing experience would be a better use of my (and your!) time. I get it, waxing such a private area can be intimidating (especially if it's your first time) so here are my tips for an easier and smoother waxing experience -
How to Prepare for Bikini Waxing?
As with most things in life, preparation is key. Hair should be a 1/4 of an inch long - not sure what that looks like? Think of a grain of rice or a sprinkle. It may be a good idea to allow at least 10 days of growth before your waxing appointment. Proper hair length allows the wax to adhere correctly.
No one and, I mean, absolutely no one is judging you. The esthetician who will perform your waxing service is a trained and licensed professional who has seen it all. Their only goal is to make your waxing experience as efficient and painless as possible.
Gently exfoliating the night before is encouraged. Showering before your appointment is also encouraged. Immediately before your session, you may even want to use a wet wipe.
Taking medications (like antibiotics, Accutane/isotretinoin or Retin-A/topical vitamin A derivatives) can be contraindications for waxing. You should consult a physician prior to scheduling your appointment.
What to Expect During the Waxing Process?
You'll enter a thoroughly disinfected and sanitized treatment room. The table will be covered with a disposable drape. If you've opted for a bikini wax, you'll be provided with a disposable bikini. If you're going full Brazilian (meaning, all or almost all of the hair will be removed) you won't need a disposable bikini. You'll be asked to undress from the waist down (the esthetician will step out to allow you to do so in private).
Upon re-entering the room, your esthetician will wash their hands and put on gloves and the process begins -
Consult - they'll confirm how much hair you want removed (many times using the disposable bikini to help guide).
Cleanse & Prep - a gentle cleanser is used to remove lotion, soap residue, oil and any other impurities. This is followed by the application of an oil (if hard wax is being used) which allows the wax to adhere to the hair and not the skin.
Wax - many times a combination of soft (wax that is removed with a strip) and hard waxes are used. Sometimes only one type of wax is used; this can depend on your skin type and the area in which hair will be removed.
Restore - once hair removal is complete, your esthetician will apply a solution to help soothe the skin.
Don't forget to relax, breathe and find your happy place. Don't worry, the results will be worth it!
How Much Hair is Removed?
This is entirely up to you. A bikini wax generally removes the hair that is outside of the bikini line (sides) and a strip across the top. A Brazilian wax generally removes ALL pubic hair (front, middle, underside and backside). It's important to note, however, that how much hair to be removed is entirely up to you. You decide. Always.
Does Bikini Waxing Hurt?
It depends. Everyone has a different pain tolerance. Unlike shaving, the ultimate goal of waxing is to remove the entire hair (including the root) from the follicle. So, yes, this can be uncomfortable.
What to Do After Waxing?
The worst part is over, but you'll want to prevent issues with proper post care, especially 24-48 hours after your waxing session.
Avoid direct sun exposure - waxing is a form of physical exfoliation, so the area that has been waxed is at a higher risk for sun sensitivity.
Avoid heat, irritation & friction - wear looser clothing and choose comfortable cotton underwear. Skip the sauna and steam room too.
Avoid sweat & bacteria - skip the workout and, yes, sex for the next 24-48 hours. The long soak in a hot bath or a dip in the pool will have to wait too.
Do moisturize & exfoliate to avoid ingrown hairs.
Pre-book your next appointment and get on a regular schedule for waxing. Your hair will, after 3-4 sessions, begin to grow in the same cycle which means you'll see longer lasting results. Whatever you do, don't shave in between sessions because you'll set the clock back.
