Whether you’re about to head out on a vacation or you’re just wanting to try something new, there are tons of reasons to get a Brazilian or bikini wax. If you’ve never had a wax “down there” before then you might be wondering what the different types are and which one is the best option for you.
Waxes can be unique and customizable to your preferences, which is just one of the reasons waxing can be so great!
The Difference Between Brazilian and Bikini Wax
Let’s jump right into it by defining the difference between Brazilian and bikini wax.
Brazilian
A Brazilian means that the hair will be removed from the bikini line to the pubic bone and commonly the buttocks as well. The goal is to essentially get rid of all the pubic hair in the groin area.
Either soft or hard wax can be used to remove the hair. A Brazilian wax can also be customized. So, you have options when it comes to what hair you want to remove. It’s a great option for those who want to be hair-free for weeks on end.
Bikini Wax
A bikini wax is exactly what it sounds like. The hair on the outside of the bikini area is all that’s removed. This usually includes any hair that grows on the upper thigh near the bikini area as well.
Hard or soft wax can also be used for a bikini wax as the bikini zone is targeted. A bikini wax will usually last somewhere around 8 weeks providing you with a smooth and hairless bikini line for your next vacation.
Types of Brazilian Waxes
We’ve already talked a little bit about customization when it comes to your wax. So, what are the available types of Brazilian waxes you can choose from? Here are two of the most common!
- Hollywood wax: The Hollywood wax takes your Brazilian to the next level by removing every little strand of hair you have in the bikini/pubic area. That includes your upper thighs, buttocks, pubic bone, and labia. This option leaves you incredibly smooth and hairless.
- French wax: The French wax is a great option if you’re wanting to leave the hair on your backside. All of the hair from the pubic bone, upper thighs, and labia will be removed, but the buttocks area will remain untouched! You could also choose to leave a triangle, or another shape of hair on the front part as well.
Types of Bikini Waxes
Just like with your Brazilian wax, there are available options when it comes to your bikini wax as well!
- Bikini line: This is the classic type of bikini wax where the hair from your upper thighs and the bikini line are removed. You won’t be able to see any hair while you’re wearing a bathing suit or underwear. That means you can prance around without having to worry about hair in that area!
- Full bikini: A full bikini includes removing more hair from the bikini line than a classic bikini wax. Depending on what you decide with your wax specialist, that could mean leaving a landing strip or a small triangle on your front side. Be sure to not get it mixed up when it comes to this type of wax. A Brazilian takes everything off while a full bikini only takes slightly more hair off than a regular bikini wax.
How to Choose Between a Brazilian or Bikini Wax
With so many great options available, how are you meant to choose the best type of wax for you? The truth is the type of wax you decide on will depend entirely on you and your preferences.
It can be a good idea to start with a bikini wax to see how it feels pain-wise. Some clients have more nerves and tenderness in their genital area which is why it can be good to start things slow.
Think about what “look” you would like to achieve when it comes to your wax and discuss with your specialist to determine which type of wax will be best for you.
All About Waxing
Once you’ve decided on what type of wax you would like to try, there’s still a lot to know about waxing in general. Here are answers to some of the questions we get most!
How do you prepare for a Brazilian or bikini wax?
Preparation before your wax appointment can go a long way! First, you want to make sure your hair is long enough to be waxed. The hair should be about a quarter of an inch in length.
You should avoid taking any aspirin or using any harsh exfoliants on the area the day before waxing as well. It’s recommended that you use a gentle scrub on the area the day before waxing. This will help with the removal of oils, impurities, and dead skin cells.
Show up to your appointment in comfortable clothes and you’ll be all set.
What types of wax are used?
When it comes to the types of wax that are used for your Brazilian or bikini wax there are essentially two types: hard wax and soft wax. Soft wax is generally thinner in texture than hard wax and is removed with a paper or cloth strip.
Hard wax on the other hand is usually more of a thicker, gel-like texture. It’s applied in a thick layer and removed once hardened.
The type of wax used during your appointment will depend on the consistency of your hair and what area it will be applied to. Your specialist will be able to make a recommendation based on your needs.
Is waxing painful?
If you’ve never had a wax before then you might find yourself somewhat concerned about how painful it’s going to be. The truth is that neither a Brazilian nor a bikini wax is going to be a painless experience.
That being said, the level of pain experienced varies from client to client. It’s generally known that your mentality and your environment can have a big impact on how your experience goes. Make sure you don’t walk in feeling on edge and go with a waxing specialist that’s going to help you feel as comfortable as possible.
What does aftercare look like?
Like many beauty treatments, some aftercare may be necessary for both a Brazilian or bikini wax. The skin in the waxing area might likely be a little bit red or tender for the day after your appointment.
If you are to have any discomfort further than tenderness, you can use a cool compress to help cool down the area. It can also be helpful to apply some aloe to the area. Although you will want to keep from using anything that has perfumes or dyes.
Staying away from tight-fitting clothing for the 24 hours following your appointment is also a good idea. Tight clothing is known to irritate.
How long will it take for my hair to grow back?
As amazing as it is to be hairless after a Brazilian or bikini wax, hair growing back in the area is inevitable. Your hair growth cycle is going to be different from anyone else. However, it’s generally expected that you can go anywhere between three to five weeks before having to book another appointment.
You’ll likely be happy to know that the more often you get waxes the more the hair in that area becomes reduced. It might not be the most desirable experience to get a wax. But it can mean less hair in the area in the long run!
Is it possible to slow hair growth?
You might be surprised to know that there are products out there that can help slow down the growth of your hair in between waxes. These products work to go straight to the root of your hair to help slow down the growth of the hair. The ingredient commonly found in these types of products is narcissus tazetta bulb extra.
There are home remedies out there too, although they aren’t known to be as effective as hair slowing products can be. You can always chat with your specialist to see what they recommend.
Book Your Brazilian or Bikini Wax
Now that you know about both Brazilian and bikini waxes, it’s not surprising if you’re feeling ready to book your next appointment. You can enjoy smooth, hair-free skin by making an appointment with one of our incredible wax specialists.
We’re proud to say we have a team with many years of dedicated experience in Brazilian and bikini waxing. We’ll be able to help you feel comfortable and confident both during and after your appointment. We also offer waxing in different areas of the body including brows, underarms, legs, face, arms, and back. Ready to book your next appointment? Get in touch with us today about waxing in West Palm Beach!