Brazilian waxing, a beauty ritual practiced for decades, is often the chosen method for those wanting a smooth, hair-free, intimate area. Originating from Brazil, this hair removal method strips away all hair from the pubic region, offering a clean aesthetic from the front to the back.
Many opt for this waxing technique for various reasons, including hygiene benefits, enhanced intimacy, or to feel more confident in swimwear. Yet, despite its popularity, taking the leap and booking that first appointment can be nerve-wracking for many. The trepidation many first-timers feel is understandable.
“I often get clients requesting their first-ever Brazilian wax, and encourage them to ask questions. There’s nothing wrong with asking questions because it puts your mind at ease and helps my clients prepare properly,” Alyia Whittaker, a licensed esthetician, said.
The Brazilian waxing process is personal, a vulnerability not all beauty treatments require. There’s also the widespread myth that the procedure is unbearably painful, a rumor deterring many from trying it. Add to that the concerns of body self-consciousness, potential skin reactions, and fear of the unknown, and it’s no surprise newcomers hesitate.
“Like any other waxing service, I do my absolute best to make all my clients comfortable. I understand a Brazilian wax is more ‘revealing,’ but clients are in a private room with just them and the esthetician,” she continued.
Whittaker is a licensed esthetician and massage therapist, and the owner of Sass N Class Salon of Beauty in El Cerritos. She spoke with 21Ninety about the best ways to prepare for your first Brazilian wax.
Proper Preparation for Your Brazilian Wax
Booking the Right Salon/Esthetician
When considering a Brazilian wax, the choice of salon is paramount. Begin by diving into online reviews of local establishments offering this service. Many positive comments about hygiene, expertise, and overall client satisfaction can indicate a salon’s reputation. Additionally, personal recommendations can be invaluable. Speaking with friends or family who’ve undergone the procedure can give you insights into their experiences, potentially steering you towards trusted estheticians.
“I’ve received so many recommendations since starting as an esthetician over ten years ago. As a small business owner, word of mouth is everything. And it makes me happy that my clients return, and recommend me to their friends and family,” Whittaker said.
She also noted that Yelp is one of the best places to find a great esthetician.
Hair Length
Achieving the optimal hair length is crucial in preparing for a Brazilian wax.
“The hair should be about one-fourth of an inch long to pick up hair with hard wax,” Whittaker advised. “If you’ve recently shaved, then I would have my client reschedule and wait about two to three weeks for their hair to grow.”
However, a gentle trim before the appointment is advisable if your hair has grown excessively long. Overly long hairs can make waxing more cumbersome and potentially more painful. So, maintaining the right hair length ensures the efficacy of the wax and also enhances the overall comfort of the procedure.
Exfoliate and Moisturize
Setting the stage for a smooth Brazilian wax involves more than just hair length; skin preparation is equally essential.
“In the week preparing for your service, you can prep your skin by exfoliating. I recommend you exfoliate with a brown sugar scrub or exfoliating gloves. This enhances hair pickup and gives smoother results,” the salon owner explained.
Furthermore, exfoliation helps lift the hair, ensuring a more effective and even removal during waxing. After exfoliating, apply a light moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and supple.
Whittaker recommended avoiding heavy or oily creams on the day of the wax itself as they can hinder the wax’s adherence to the hair, reducing the procedure’s effectiveness. In essence, a regimen of careful exfoliation and moisturization can make a significant difference in the experience and outcome of a Brazilian wax.
Avoid Tight Clothing and Handling Discomfort
The choice of clothing on the day of a Brazilian wax plays a pivotal role in ensuring post-procedure comfort. Directly after waxing, the skin can be more sensitive, making it susceptible to irritation from friction.
“I recommend wearing a dress and loose-fitting underwear. You really want your skin to breathe after receiving a wax,” Whittaker advised. “Tight clothing doesn’t allow that and can lead to skin irritation.”
An initial Brazilian wax often comes with a certain level of physical discomfort. The sensation, usually described as a quick, sharp sting, varies from person to person based on individual pain thresholds. However, it’s important to note that the discomfort is fleeting, often subsiding quickly after the initial pull.
“There can be discomfort, but nothing long-term or an Advil cannot handle,” Whittaker added. “Some women will take Advil or Tylenol 30 minutes before their appointment or right after.”
Stay Relaxed
Staying relaxed during a Brazilian wax is not merely a matter of comfort; it also influences the overall success and ease of the procedure. When the body is tense, the skin can become less pliable, which might intensify the sensation of the wax pull.
“I teach my clients a quick breathing technique or even sometimes talk to them to help them take their mind off what’s happening. Usually, there’s soothing music playing in the background, which also helps,” Whittaker said.
Adopting a calm mindset diminishes the perceived discomfort and fosters a more positive waxing experience overall.
A Brazilian wax, though intimidating for newcomers, is a routine procedure for many. Proper preparation and a positive mindset can be a smooth, confidence-boosting experience. The process becomes less painful with each subsequent wax. Embrace the journey, and soon, you’ll be a waxing pro.