Everything to Know Before Getting Your First Brazilian Wax

Getting a Brazilian wax for the first time can feel like a rite of passage, especially for those who believe less is more when it comes to their bikini lines. The experience can also feel way more transformative than something like a first eyebrow wax because, well, you're removing all of your pubic hair! As Sex and the City's Carrie Bradshaw said when she got her first one, "I got mugged. She took everything I got." If you're getting your first-ever Brazilian wax, you probably want to know what to expect. After all, preparation is the key to success, even when it comes to your pubes.

What does a Brazilian wax entail?

While Carrie's may have resulted in her feeling like a "freaking hairless dog," you don't have to go completely bare if you don't want to. Some opt for a "landing strip" or just a little coverage in the front. "A Brazilian bikini wax is as much or as little as you want removed from the top, sides, and front of your bikini," explains Gina Petak, education manager at European Wax Center. While a full bikini wax is the same in that respect, a Brazilian is different because it also includes the back and butt area. "This is perfect for a completely nude look," says Petak. You can also opt for a triangle, strip, or square on the front. She adds, "Choose the style that best fits you."

What will the pain be like?

As expected, a Brazilian wax can be uncomfortable for first-timers, but it only gets better from there. According to Petak, since the hair gets removed from the root, it ends up growing out softer and finer, so it ultimately becomes less painful when you get waxed regularly. You can also minimize the pain in a couple of different ways. Try taking ibuprofen about an hour before your appointment or scheduling it for a few days after your period if you can since the skin tends to be more sensitive when you're close to menstruating.

You can also inquire about the type of wax being used. Most likely, it will be hard wax. Hard wax is better for the bikini area since it's thicker and hardens on top of the skin, whereas soft wax adheres to the skin along with the hair.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

First of all, your hair should be long enough to get waxed, so stop shaving about two weeks prior to your appointment and let it grow until it's at least as long as a grain of rice.

A day or two before your appointment, exfoliate the area with a gentle scrub that doesn't leave a film to buff away dry skin. This allows the wax to get a better grip on the hair. On the day of, make sure the area is clean and clear of lotion and other products. You'll also want to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to prevent your skin from getting rubbed or irritated.

What to Expect During Your Wax Session

First, you'll partially disrobe. Then, your waxer will cleanse your bikini area before applying the wax and removing the hair. Because of the area being waxed, you can most likely expect to have to get into some interesting body positions, like bringing your knees to your chest and holding your leg up in the air (like Carrie had to). If you want to know exactly how it will go down, don't be afraid to ask your waxer directly. The whole thing should take about 15 to 30 minutes.

Post-Wax Aftercare

Continue to wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid tight jeans. Breathable cotton garments are best. Petak also says to make sure to use lukewarm or cooler water during your post-wax shower, as hot water can dehydrate the skin. You'll want to avoid using any harsh soaps or bodywashes that contain oil or leave a filmy residue. Lastly, put your hot-tub time on hold. Avoid using any saunas and jacuzzis and going into any bodies of water right after your wax. Some waxers also recommend holding off on workouts and other physical activities, like sex, for a day or two after your wax.

How much does it cost? 

European Wax Center charges $56 for Brazilian waxes, depending upon the location. This is comparable to other spas that charge $50 to $80 for Brazilian waxes. Some places may also charge more for hard wax. Petak advises, "Always go somewhere that specializes in waxing and has trained and licensed waxing experts for a safe, sanitary, and pleasant experience."

Preventing Ingrown Hairs After Waxing

As I mentioned above, wearing loose clothing for a day or two after receiving a wax is key. In addition to preventing irritation to the area, it will prevent ingrown hairs from forming. Exfoliating 72 hours after waxing and exfoliating regularly afterward can also prevent ingrown hairs. Fur's Silk Scrub ($54) is a great scrub to use a day or two before a wax to buff away dead skin, and it's great for use afterward.

Another important tip is to remember not to pick at or pop any bumps around the area. Picking or popping can damage the skin around the bikini area and cause inflammation and the formation of ingrown hairs.

There's even something you can do before a wax to help prevent ingrowns: hydrating your skin. If your skin is too dry, the hairs will break off at the surface level instead of at the follicle, increasing your risk of developing ingrown hairs. Make sure to keep the bikini area moisturized to prevent this from happening.

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This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.