What Is A Brazilian Wax? Everything You Need To Know.
Whether you’re prepping for swimsuit season or just want to go completely hair-free. The thought of getting a Brazilian wax treatment will make you opt for the trusty razor instead:) Let me help you set the record straight. Waxing has come a long way, as a licensed Esthetician for 20 plus years I have seen it evolve into a treatment that doesn’t have to be too painful.
If we’re being honest (and we are), waxing isn’t about checking off a box. It’s a more convenient, effective way to rid your body of unwanted hair for a couple weeks, verses shaving which the hair comes back in a few days.
In the beginning of my career waxing was mostly done using strip wax which can be very painful. Currently most establishments use hard wax with a little bit of wax oil on the skin which will help diminish the amount of pain significantly.
Let begin with what exactly is Brazilian wax?
A Brazilian wax is a hair removal procedure that involves the complete removal of pubic hair. This means all hair in the front, back, and everything in between will be waxed off by a professional. This might sound a little intimidating or intimate, but the results are smooth skin that last for weeks. (This doesn’t include the inner thigh – bikini area)
Let’s talk Brazilian Wax vs Bikini Wax
There is only one key difference between a Brazilian wax and a bikini one: how much hair is removed. Bikini wax only removes hair along the bikini line (inner thigh- bikini area), just inside the panty line in front. The wax is applied, quickly removed, and takes the hair from the root. The results are temporary, with even regrowth, but it may take some time before hair becomes noticeable again.
The Downsides of a Brazilian Wax
Other than the discomfort you may feel during treatment, other side effects include redness, discoloration, bumps, these should subside in one to three days.
Do people get ingrown hairs when getting a Brazilian Wax treatment?
Ingrown hair is one of the most common causes of bumps after a Brazilian wax. They occur after a few days of waxing as the hair regrowth starts. The new growing hair instead of popping out of the skin curls itself back into the hair follicles. As a result, tiny bumps are formed on the body that feel itchy and painful. Not everyone gets ingrown hairs. The way to avoid this, is after a few days of hair growth gently exfoliate away dead skin cells, unclog pores, using something with granules, a wash cloth or a after wax serum containing an Alpha hydroxy.
How to Prep
Before booking a waxing appointment, you’ll want to make sure there’s enough hair on your pubic area to be removed. You’ll want about a quarter to a half-inch long. You’ll also want to gently exfoliate a day or two before to prevent ingrown hairs.
If you happen to be on your period on the day of treatment, you can still go through with treatment. But keeps in mind there may be increased sensitivity to pain during your menstrual cycle as your hormone levels shift and a greater chance of inflammation. It may be a good idea to plan ahead to avoid getting one when you have your period.
What to Expect
You will begin with a consultation, that will explain the process.
You’ll be laying down for the treatment with your bottom half exposed. Powder may be applied to absorb any moisture and allow the wax to adhere to the hair better. Hair will be removed in small sections, applying warm wax (never hot wax that will burn your skin) and then quickly removed. Pressure may be applied to minimize discomfort and sometimes they might need your help in holding certain areas taut to help the process move along. For precision and a clean surface, tweezers and scissor are used if necessary. Once they’re done, they’ll help you with a post-waxing regimen to make sure your skin stays smooth and healthy.
Post-Care
For aftercare, avoiding saunas, hot baths, rigorous workouts, or anything that might make the skin too hot for the first day or so. Wear loose clothes and cotton underwear as any friction from tight clothing might cause irritation. You’ll also want to avoid direct sunlight on newly smooth skin for at least 48 hours.
You can expect a Brazilian wax to last between three to six weeks, depending on your hair growth pattern. It’s recommended to get a follow-up appointment every five to six weeks.