What Is a Brazilian Wax? Your Questions, Answered
If you choose to remove or groom your pubic hair — because it’s totally OK to leave it too — one popular option you might be familiar with is waxing. You’ve probably seen it at the center of a cheeky storyline on TV, in series such as Friends and Sex and the City, or maybe it’s been a recent topic of discussion among you and your friends. Hot wax *down there* doesn’t sound too pleasant, but it’s an effective hair removal treatment that typically requires less up-keep than shaving and costs less $$$ than laser hair removal. Bikini waxes strip the hair across the top and along the sides of your underwear line — but there’s one other, more extensive type. Enter the Brazilian wax, a popular hair removal procedure for those who favor a *completely* bare bikini area that’s not permanent, but lasts longer than shaving.
Here’s what we mean by completely bare: “A Brazilian wax refers to the removal of all of the hair in the pubic area, also known as the vulva, and may include removing the hair on the upper thighs, as well as in the buttock and perianal area,” Dr. Marisa Garshick, New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, explains. You could leave a triangle, strip, or square of hair, but a full Brazilian wax pulls out *all* pubic and butt hair.
You might be thinking OK, ouch (!!) but the pain is relatively short-lived, and the discomfort usually lessens with each session. They can be done at a local salon or wax studio — just make sure to do your research before you book your appointment. Here, we break down the basics and explain everything you need to know about Brazilian waxes.
Is a Brazilian wax painful?
In short, yes. A Brazilian wax can be pretty painful — remember, it involves the use of hot wax to rip hair from your nether regions. But the good news (!) is that the pain is typically brief. “A Brazilian wax can be painful, particularly since it is a sensitive area,” Dr. Garschick explains. “That said, once people know what to expect, it is considered tolerable.” To lessen the discomfort, you could take an ibuprofen prior to the appointment, Dr. Garshick says.
If you have sensitive skin, a Brazilian wax is doable, but you should be extra careful with prep and after-care. “It is especially important to be gentle with the skin before and after the waxing, avoiding the use of any harsh scrubs or irritants that may cause a reaction,” Dr. Garshick advises.
What’s the difference between a Brazilian wax and a bikini wax?
The two treatments sound similar, but produce different results down there. “A bikini wax typically removes the hair that goes along the edges of the underwear or bikini line,” Dr. Garshick explains. So while a Brazilian wax removes all pubic and butt hair, a bikini wax strips just the hair that might peek out outside your underwear line.
How long does a Brazilian wax typically last?
Brazilian waxes usually last about 3 to 4 weeks, Dr. Garshick says. “Though it can vary depending on the individual’s hair regrowth,” she adds. You can shave to maintain the wax between appointments, but you want to be sure that the pubic hair is long enough to remove when you go in for your next appointment.
How long should pubic hair be before a Brazilian wax?
The recommended length is at least ¼ of an inch, Dr. Garshick says. “It is good to have a little hair visible at the time of wax,” she explains. “Some people say at least ¼ of an inch to give the wax something to grab onto to be effective.”
How do I best prep for a Brazilian wax?
Again, it’s best to avoid shaving in the weeks before your Brazilian wax appointment. For it to be successful, there needs to be enough pubic hair for the wax to grip onto.
Dr. Garshick also warns that you don’t get waxed if you take Accutane, “as it can make your skin more sensitive,” she says.
Since your down-there area will be pretty sensitive afterwards, it’s best to wear loose-fitting clothing and a breathable pair of underwear to your appointment. This will help reduce irritation. It’s not essential but “some people find taking an ibuprofen prior to waxing can help to alleviate the discomfort,” Dr. Garshick adds.
What should I do after getting a Brazilian wax?
Remember, loose-fitting and breathable clothing is key. It’s OK to hop in the shower after a Brazilian wax, but rinse under cool or lukewarm water. “It is generally recommended to avoid hot water as the skin is more sensitive post-wax and you want to minimize further injury,” Dr. Garshick explains.
Also, stick to gentle moisturizers and exfoliators. “You want to avoid any harsh ingredients or fragrances if your skin is particularly sensitive as this can lead to more redness or irritation,” Dr. Garshick says. “If you’re prone to ingrown hairs or irritation, it can be helpful to speak with a board-certified dermatologist about prescription medications that may be helpful post-wax, such as cortisone cream or antibacterial lotion.”
She adds that creams and lotions are most soothing and hydrating, and that you should avoid any products with an alcohol base.
What are the possible side effects of a Brazilian wax?
Potential side effects of a Brazilian wax include redness, irritation, ingrown bumps, or burns. “If the skin experiences any irritation, it is best to speak with a board-certified dermatologist to ensure proper treatment and management,” Dr. Garshick advises.
Is it OK to get a Brazilian wax while on your period?
Yes! But since you won’t be wearing any underwear, you’ll want to opt for a tampon. “It is important to note that the skin may be slightly more uncomfortable,” Dr. Garshick adds, since the pubic area is a bit more sensitive during this time of the month.
How much do Brazilian waxes cost?
Price varies per location, but Brazilian waxes typically cost somewhere between $50 and $100. You can usually check pricing on a salon’s website, but don’t hesitate to give them a call if it’s not listed online.
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