It seems as of late, I have been getting more and more questions about Bikini waxing. With being in the industry for as long as I have, it's easy for me to forget that not everyone waxes. After talking with some first time waxing clients, I've found that two of the biggest reasons that clients have waited so long to experience waxing, is that they haven't been properly educated. They were either intimidated or too embarrassed to ask questions.
Below you'll find the answers to the most frequently asked questions that I, the esthetician, receive in the treatment room.
Why is waxing better then shaving?
Ingrown hair & razor burn. Need I say more?!
The skin in the pubic area is much softer and more sensitive than the skin that covers the rest of your body. A razor not only comes in contact with the hair, but is also scraping against the skin's surface. This causes trauma to the skin, and the immediate reaction is razor burn.
When healthy cells are removed from the skin it causes the skin to panic, and it will over produce oil and skin cells to try and compensate for what was lost, which in turn can clog the pores and follicles. Shaving will also only remove the hair from the skins surface, leaving a blunt edge that needs to work its way through new skin. Often the hair is not able to break through, and backs up into the follicle causing an infection and creating an ingrown hair. Both can be very painful and a bit unsightly.
At Zhen we use hard wax which does not stick to the skin, and only pulls the hair from the follicle. This eliminates trauma to the skin. In 3-4 weeks when the new hair begins to grow back, the tip is pointed like a needle, and can easily break through the skins surface leaving it, in most cases, completely ingrown free.
Also, over time, waxing will change the follicle and make the re-growth finer, and lessen the amount of hair each time you wax.
What is the difference between a Basic Bikini and a Brazilian?
A Basic Bikini wax removes the hair from the inner thighs, and below the navel. Essentially, the hair that would be exposed while wearing a traditional bikini.
A Brazilian wax removes every trace of hair from the inner thighs, pubic area and back (including bum). If bare doesn't sound like the way to go, it's very common to leave a triangle or narrow strip (landing strip) on the pubis.
If you'd like something in between, try a French Bikini. This will remove more hair then a Basic Bikini and leave a narrow strip on the pubis and labia.
How long does my hair need to be?
For all waxing services the hair needs to be at least a quarter inch long to ensure that all the hair is able to be removed. Hair should be no longer then a half inch to cut down on the amount of pulling the hair while waxing.
Is it true that waxing can cause bleeding, bruising or skin tearing?
If waxing is done by someone who has been poorly trained or performed on someone who has a contraindication (condition or factor that increases risk), bruising or skin tearing may occur. Some medications or medical conditions can prevent you from being a candidate for waxing. It is very important that you are honest both on your intake form and during your consultation. By doing so, this gives the provider the information they need to proceed or not with a waxing service. If you are not a good waxing candidate, your provider can give you other alternatives for hair removal. If you have any doubt, it's always best to consult with your physician prior to your appointment.
Some bleeding can occur during a waxing service. Because the hair is being pulled from the follicle, it may take some of the follicle with it. This is very normal and only lasts for a second or two. The coarser the hair, the higher the incidence is. Also some outside factors may contribute to "pin prick bleeding".
Does waxing hurt?
Each person has their own level of pain tolerance. Here are a few tips to help you cope with waxing:
1. Try to avoid waxing the week before and a few days after your menstrual cycle. The hormone surges during this time can make the nerve endings more sensitive and will make for an unpleasant experience.
2. Avoid Caffeine! Caffeine not only makes our minds more alert, but also our nerves. Most people feel more pain when they have a caffeine buzz.
3. Taking ONE Ibuprofen 30-60 minutes before your appointment can keep inflammation down both during and after your waxing appointment. Always seek the advice of your physician before taking ANY medication, whether prescribed or over the counter.
4. Do not expose the area to the sun or a tanning bed for 48 hours PRIOR to your appointment. Fresh or fake, it can cause irritation.
5. Avoid alcohol 24 hours before your waxing appointment. Alcohol thins the blood and will increase your chances of bruising and pin prick bleeding.
6. Ask about pre and post waxing products to boost your level of comfort. These products help to numb before waxing and help to sooth any irritation post waxing.
Do I have to be naked from the waist down?
You never have to do anything. For a Basic or French Bikini, I suggest that my clients where a disposable panty. Not only does this make the client more comfortable, but it gives me a template to work with. (disposables are provided in the waxing rooms and can be used for any service)
For Brazilians you also have the option of wearing a disposal panty. Most clients decide not to because it does increase their role in the service, and it takes a bit longer to complete the wax.
Can men get a Bikini wax or Brazilian?
Yes, a man can have either a bikini wax or the male equivalent to a Brazilian, which is sometimes called a Manzilian. We currently do not have a male esthetician staffed, so we do not perform this type of waxing for men. We do however perform all other waxing services for our male clientele.
Waxing, especially in the bikini area puts you in a vulnerable position.
Ask questions and be honest with your provider! If you've never waxed, start simple, and work your way up to more hair being removed. It is your right and responsibility as the client to communicate your preferences, expectations and concerns to your provider. Your comfort and safety are of utmost importance. If you wish to stop at ANY time, let your provider know, and she will stop immediately!
Know that you're in good hands and working with trained professionals.
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