Get comfortable ladies, this is a LONG post. I thought it only suiting that this be my blog for the week since our weekly special at Glance is $15 off a Brazilian!
Tell Me… What exactly is a BRAZILIAN?
A Brazilian Wax consists of waxing everything from the vagina, including the labia, to the anus.
Don’t worry; I don’t put you on all fours… I will turn you onto your hip to remove the hair from your bottom. Every esthetician will have her own technique and preferred positions.
Don’t worry; I don’t put you on all fours… I will turn you onto your hip to remove the hair from your bottom. Every esthetician will have her own technique and preferred positions.
How BAD does it hurt?
There isn’t really a way around some discomfort in this sensitive area. Removing hair from the hair follicle directly is not a comfortable process. Sometimes the anticipation is worse than the actual procedure. There isn’t a set amount of discomfort; it all depends on the client.
If it is your first time receiving a Brazilian, you will experience slightly more discomfort because after years of shaving, the hair grows extremely coarse. As you continue to receive waxes the hair will begin to grow thinner, feel less coarse and you will experience less irritation pre- and post-waxing!
There isn’t really a way around some discomfort in this sensitive area. Removing hair from the hair follicle directly is not a comfortable process. Sometimes the anticipation is worse than the actual procedure. There isn’t a set amount of discomfort; it all depends on the client.
If it is your first time receiving a Brazilian, you will experience slightly more discomfort because after years of shaving, the hair grows extremely coarse. As you continue to receive waxes the hair will begin to grow thinner, feel less coarse and you will experience less irritation pre- and post-waxing!
First timers (or regulars) may want to take an anti-inflammatory (such as Ibuprofen) about 30 minutes prior to the waxing service- but it is totally up to you and your pain tolerance!
Why is waxing BETTER than shaving?
Since shaving only removes the hair at the surface, hair can be seen at the surface of the skin and coarse stubble can be felt within24- 48 hours! Shaving commonly results in ingrown hairs, bumps and ongoing skin irritation. When waxed, hair grows back slower, softer and without stubble. When appropriate post-waxing home care is followed, waxing leaves virtually no ingrown hairs, bumps or ongoing skin irritation. Waxing will, over time, make hair growth finer, and hair will become less in volume; but there will always be some re-growth.
Since shaving only removes the hair at the surface, hair can be seen at the surface of the skin and coarse stubble can be felt within24- 48 hours! Shaving commonly results in ingrown hairs, bumps and ongoing skin irritation. When waxed, hair grows back slower, softer and without stubble. When appropriate post-waxing home care is followed, waxing leaves virtually no ingrown hairs, bumps or ongoing skin irritation. Waxing will, over time, make hair growth finer, and hair will become less in volume; but there will always be some re-growth.
How much time will it take?
Expect your appointment to take about 30 minutes. It all depends on the client. The first time usually takes the longest. The second time is much faster.
Expect your appointment to take about 30 minutes. It all depends on the client. The first time usually takes the longest. The second time is much faster.
What can I do to prepare for the wax?
1. You will want to let your hair grow without shaving for about 2 weeks.
2. If the hairs are very long, trim them to 1/4inch. This ensures a faster, much less uncomfortable procedure and cleaner, smoother results.
1. You will want to let your hair grow without shaving for about 2 weeks.
2. If the hairs are very long, trim them to 1/4inch. This ensures a faster, much less uncomfortable procedure and cleaner, smoother results.
3. Keep in mind that your skin is more sensitive near your period. Try to keep your schedule ahead of this time. Brazilian’s are not performed during your period.
Why should I stay on a regular wax schedule?
If you only do it once or twice a year expect to go through the initial irritation each time. In order to maintain the best results and experience the least amount of discomfort, you won’t want to go more than 6 weeks without a routine wax. Our hair has cell memory, it knows how long it is supposed to be. Think about how the hair on your arms doesn’t keep growing in length like the hair on your head… interesting!
What do I need to do AFTER the wax?
You’ll want to avoid anything that might cause further irritation, such as tanning and/or extended sun exposure. You’ll also want to avoid extreme temperatures like hot tubs and saunas. Give your skin at least 24 hours before resuming your regular exfoliation. At that point, exfoliating at least 2-3 times a week will help get rid of the dead skin cells and help "lift" the hairs growing out. It is very important that you do not pluck or shave in between waxing if you want optimum results! There are products such as Dermalogica’s Post Shave Balm or Tend Skin, which aid in bumps and ingrown hairs. (Both available at Glance!)
Should I try this at home?
Not a fabulous idea unless you are already an experienced waxer. Being inexperienced can lead to bruising and/or the loss of skin. Let a professional do it.
Not a fabulous idea unless you are already an experienced waxer. Being inexperienced can lead to bruising and/or the loss of skin. Let a professional do it.
What might be some contraindications to waxing?
Before you receive any waxing service, it is VERY important you disclose any of the following:
Before you receive any waxing service, it is VERY important you disclose any of the following:
- Are diabetic
- Bruise easily
- Have varicose veins
- Are sunburned
- Have thyroid condition
- Are menstruating
- Are using products/medications that are contraindicated for waxing:
- Accutane- You must be OFF this medication treatment for at least 1 YEAR prior to waxing.
- Adapalene
- Alustra
- Avage
- Tazorac
- Avita
- Differin
- Renova
- Retin A
- Tretinoin
· Other acne medications not listed above
· Bleaching agents for the skin (Hydroquinone)
· Previous chemical depilatories (such as Nair)
· ProActive (Benzoyl Peroxide)
· Alpha Hydroxy Acids (glycolic, lactic acids)
· Oral antibiotics
· Topical antibiotics
These products can make your skin more sensitive. Thin skin is more vulnerable to lifting and/or sensitivity during your wax.
Your skin is important to YOU and US! – Please check with your doctor if you have any concerns.
I hope you find this helpful whether you are currently a Brazilian regular or are considering this waxing service for the first time!!
