On the other hand, Brazilian waxing is a more intimate procedure. All the hair from the front, back, and between the butt cheeks is removed to create a smooth look. You can further customize a Brazilian wax by getting a neat triangle, square, or strip at the front. Deciding between a bikini and Brazilian wax depends on your budget and preference. Here are some other differences to keep in mind.
Bikini Wax Vs. Brazilian Wax
Note: If you are on your period, wait until it is over before going for either of these waxing procedures. Also, once you wax your bikini line or pubic region, the skin down there will be very sensitive. Therefore, it is recommended to wait a good time before your next waxing session. You should also apply a soothing, alcohol-free, and fragrance-free cream, moisturizer, or ointment to keep the skin smooth and less irritated. There are various types of waxes that most estheticians use while performing these procedures. Let’s check out what they are in the next section.
Types Of Wax Used
There are mainly two types of wax – hard and soft. Hard wax has a thick gel-like consistency and looks like slime. It is generously applied to the skin in a thick, warm layer and pulled without a strip once it cools and hardens. Hard wax is better and safer for sensitive skin as it is said to be less painful. On the other hand, soft wax has a thinner consistency than hard wax. It is applied in a thin layer to the skin and removed with a strip of cloth or paper.
For Bikini Waxing: The type of wax used in bikini waxing depends on the thickness of the hair in your intimate area. However, most estheticians use hard wax. This enables them to remove the coarse hair cleanly and precisely. Hard wax also acts as an exfoliator that reduces the chance of an irritated intimate area after the procedure. For Brazilian Waxing: Both hard and soft wax can be used for Brazilian waxing. Hard wax is used on coarse hairs and reachable areas. Since soft wax is more malleable, it is better for less accessible areas. Soft wax also provides quick results and involves minimal tugging when done by an experienced esthetician.
The costs of bikini and Brazilian waxing are different and vary based on the salon, wax type, and the area waxed.
How Much Does Each Method Cost?
While the exact prices will depend on the salon, the products used, and the expertise level of the esthetician, the cost of bikini wax ranges from $30-$40, while Brazilian wax costs around $45-$130. Note: Some salons may offer cheap rates for these procedures, but it is important to check their sanitary conditions and hygiene before opting for it. Remember to follow the ‘no double dipping’ rule if you are using soft wax. A new stick should be used every time it is dipped in the wax pot. Heading out for a bikini or Brazilian wax may be daunting, but here are some tips that can help you prep.
How To Prep For A Bikini Or Brazilian Wax
Make sure your hair down there is long enough for waxing. If you have recently undergone these waxing procedures, wait a few weeks before your next session. A good rule of thumb is to wait until hair is ¼-inch long — about the length of a sprinkle to head in for a bikini or Brazilian wax. Avoid aspirin or heavy exfoliants a day before waxing as they may leave the skin extra sensitive. Use a gentle scrub a day before the waxing procedure. This helps remove dead cells, oils, impurities, and dirt from the skin. Wear loose clothing to prevent rubbing and irritation on the waxed area. Take an Advil around 30-60 minutes before the appointment to deal with the pain during waxing.
Since both processes are performed in an intimate and sensitive area, they can be painful.
How Painful Are These Procedures?
Straight up, both waxing methods are going to be painful. Since you are removing hair from an intimate and sensitive area, it will hurt. But bikini waxing causes lesser pain than Brazilian waxing. Since it only removes hair from the sides or top of the bikini line, it takes lesser time and causes less pain. Brazilian waxing is a time-consuming hair removal method and more painful. You can check with the esthetician at the salon for any OTC painkillers to reduce the pain. However, with more regular sessions, the pain decreases over time. The hair typically grows softer and finer after every waxing session, making it easier for the esthetician to rip it. Here are some aftercare tips to prevent irritation, chafing, redness, inflammation, or other adverse effects of waxing.
Aftercare Tips
Try a cold compress to relieve irritation, redness, bumps, and swelling down there. Some people also recommend applying aloe vera, but ensure you consult the esthetician before using any ingredient on your waxed skin. Wear loose clothing to prevent chafing and further irritation. Do not use any deodorants, perfumes, or dyes down there. They contain alcohol and harsh chemicals that may cause itchiness and irritation. Avoid the gym, pools, and bathing in the ocean for a few days. Working out will strain your groin, leading to irritation and pain. Also, sweat can further irritate your skin. Pools contain chlorine, which may aggravate the irritation, and salty ocean water may burn and irritate the skin.
Both the waxing procedures leave their mark and come with some pain and side effects.
Side Effects
Redness or temporary change in skin color Irritation Inflammation Ingrown hair Bruises or burning sensation Pimples and bumps
Note: If your skin becomes red and itchy right after you apply the wax, let the esthetician know, as this may be an allergic reaction to the wax. However, the sensitive area should be fine in a few days with the right care.
How Long Will It Take For My Hair To Grow Back?
Everyone’s growth cycle is different, but most people can go anywhere from three to five weeks before they need to book another appointment. Regular waxing will reduce the amount of hair that comes back, so think of it as short-term pain for long-term gain. The next waxing session depends on how quick the growth cycle of the pubic hair is. It may take a few weeks for the hair to become long enough for the wax to grasp and pull out. Solution: Use aloe vera gel to soothe the burns. You can also use a cold compress, a cloth dipped in cold water, or an ice-filled bag to relieve burning sensation. If you are wondering about the amount of time it takes for the hair to grow back, scroll down to the next section.
Should I trim before a Brazilian wax? Yes, you can trim down slightly long hair before your Brazilian wax to make your experience more comfortable. Is getting a Brazilian wax awkward? It is natural to feel awkward if you are getting a Brazilian wax done for the first time. However, there is nothing wrong with getting a Brazilian wax done. It is recommended that you speak to a professional and understand the procedure better before going for it.
