Nothing is more scary than Brazilian wax when it comes to bikini waxing choices. Though it comes at a cost, silky smooth skin has always been alluring for those getting ready for swimsuit season or simply desiring to go fully hair-free in that area. Because of the harsh reputation of Brazilian waxes, most people choose to use their reliable razor instead. However, if you’re wondering what is a Brazilian wax and even ready for your first Brazilian wax because you’re sick of the ingrown hair and razor bumps that come with shaving your pubic area, you’ll definitely want to read this before your first time.
WHAT IS BRAZILIAN WAX?
The most drastic option for waxing your pubic hair is a Brazilian wax. Your vulva and mons pubis, the skin pad just above your genitalia, are completely shaved off during a Brazilian. Any pubic hairs that grow up toward your belly button or on your thighs are also removed.
While a bikini wax keeps things tidy around the edges of your swimsuit area, a Brazilian wax offers the same level of smoothness but extends it to your entire pubic region, similar to what some celebrities opt for.
HOW LONG DOES A BRAZILIAN WAX LAST?
Depending on how quickly your hair grows back, a Brazilian wax can last anywhere from three to six weeks. For optimal results, we advise waxing every three to four weeks following your initial wax. As a result, hair will always regrow more slowly and thinly.
PREPARATION
Make sure you’re prepared for the appointment by checking in with yourself beforehand. You ought to:
- Make sure your hair is the size of a rice grain, or at least ¼ inch long. To improve the wax’s ability to grip, you might wish to shorten it if it’s longer than ½ inch.
- To assist in avoiding ingrown hairs, gently exfoliate a few days before your session using a buffing mitt or washcloth.
- The skin may become more sensitive if you tan at least 24 hours before your visit.
- Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol on the day of your visit. Both may tighten your pores and increase the discomfort of waxing.
- For optimal comfort, wear loose bottoms or breathable cotton underwear to your appointment.
- To help reduce pain, take an over-the-counter painkiller approximately half an hour before your appointment.
HOW IS A BRAZILIAN WAX PERFORMED?
A Brazilian uses the special qualities of wax, just like all other waxing treatments, to remove hair from the root. You can use hot or cold wax for this. When you schedule your appointment, be sure to inquire about the type they employ if you have a preference.
- The waxer distributes a small layer of wax to the desired hair-removal region from a larger pot.
- The wax wraps around your hair and adheres firmly.
- To make the wax attach to the paper, apply a piece of special waxing paper over the waxed area and gently press down.
- In one swift motion, the paper is torn off, taking the hair with it.
- One strip at a time, the waxer works until all of your pubic hair is gone.
- It will take three to four weeks for your hair to regrow. The procedure can then be repeated.
WHAT TO DO AFTER A BRAZILIAN WAX
Make sure you give the region a bit more TLC than usual right after your appointment:
- In case of any discomfort, redness, or discoloration, use a cool compress or hydrocortisone cream.
- Put off having sex for at least a day. This will allow the healing of any microtears before genital-to-genital contact.
- Steer clear of intense exercise, such as a medium- or high-impact exercise class, and immerse yourself in water for at least a day. A bath may irritate you, but a shower is good.
- Afterward, refrain from tanning for at least 24 hours. The pubic region may be more vulnerable to sun damage as a result of the intense exfoliation.
BRAZILIAN WAX AFTER 2 WEEKS
It should take two to three weeks after having Brazilian wax for you to notice any hair growth. Because of the cycles in hair development, you will likely notice hair growth a little sooner following your first Brazilian. It will take longer for your hair to grow back after a few waxes.
PROS AND CONS OF BRAZILIAN WAX
PROS
Going au naturel (i.e., hairy) has nothing to do with being unhealthy or dirty. But waxing offers advantages if you like a more polished appearance.
- Less irritation: If you prepare properly, waxing could be less prone to produce pimples and rashes than shaving.
- Long-lasting: Unlike shaving, wax removes hair by pulling it out from the root, keeping you smooth for longer. Though hair eventually grows back, getting a Brazilian wax might help you avoid having hair for three or four weeks. (At that point, you should schedule another appointment with your waxer.)
- Less hair in the long run: Hair that has been waxed frequently tends to grow back thinner and softer. With time, waxing will become less painful and easier, and you might be able to go between treatments for longer.
CONS
How painful is Brazilian wax? On the pain scale, it varies from very painful to excruciating. However, it’s usually the worst the first time.
- Rash: Especially immediately following waxing, lumps and redness are frequent. This is transient and usually goes away on its own.
- Itchiness: As your waxed skin heals, you may experience itching. Avoid scratching as this may cause skin irritation.
- Vulvodynia: Research indicates that shaving the pubic hair raises the likelihood of acquiring vulvodynia, or chronic vulva pain, even if it’s not very prevalent.
FINAL TAKEAWAY
Getting a Brazilian wax is still a personal choice that should be determined by how comfortable you are. Any salon or spa in your area should provide a seamless experience for you. Most people find that Brazilian waxing is safe as long as it is performed by a qualified specialist with high-quality products and the right techniques. However, it could irritate skin, result in ingrown hairs, or cause mild discomfort—especially in those with sensitive skin. To minimize possible adverse effects, it is imperative to adhere to the aftercare instructions. For the most optimal and comfortable outcome, remember to properly hydrate and exfoliate following your initial wax.