Before your waxing appointment, decide how much hair you want to remove. A little beforehand research will help you determine whether a bikini or brazilian wax is right for you. A Brazilian wax removes more hair -- and hair in more intimate areas -- than the full bikini wax.

As its name implies, the bikini wax focuses on removing hair from those areas that are seen when you slip into a bathing suit. In essence, pubic hair is removed along the sides and top of the bikini area. A full bikini wax, also known as a deep bikini wax, removes more hair than your basic bikini wax. From the bikini line working inward, the esthetician will remove about 1 1/2 inches of hair on each side as well as at the top of your pubic hair line. Your technician may also remove some hair along the sides of the vaginal lips. The full bikini wax leaves pubic hair in the middle, just above your vagina, but eliminates hair on the sides and top.

A full bikini wax allows you to thoroughly remove hair that may be exposed along your bikini line, without having to bare all to your technician. You can usually keep your panties on during this wax, which makes it preferable for modest ladies. Plus, since full bikini waxes require less work, they are typically more efficient and less expensive than Brazilian waxes.

The Brazilian wax picks up where the full bikini wax leaves off. In addition to removing hair along the sides and top of your bikini line, the Brazilian wax also includes hair removal in more intimate areas. All hair is removed from the front of the bikini area, the vaginal lips, labia and buttocks. Some women may choose to keep a thin strip of hair in the center, although many opt to go completely hairless during a Brazilian wax.

A Brazilian wax can give you confidence when you wear a bathing suit, as you don't have to worry about any unruly hairs peeking out from under your bikini bottoms. If a hair-free bikini area is your preference, a Brazilian wax can be supremely convenient, helping you avoid shaving for weeks at a time. Finally, you may enjoy the cleanliness that a hair-free bikini area brings, especially during your period.

Bikini area waxing -- both a full bikini wax and a Brazilian -- present a few concerns.

• Skin tenderness: Immediately following a full bikini or Brazilian wax, your skin may be red, inflamed and tender for a couple of days.
  
  
• Ingrown hairs: Freshly waxed skin exposes pores once covered by hair. These pores can get clogged, resulting in an uncomfortable ingrown hair.
  
  
• Infection risks: Attending a poorly sterilized salon or using a technician who does not adhere to hygienic practices may lead to infection.