Salon Bikini Waxing Preparation

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Bikini waxes leave you smooth and hairless in a sensitive area of the body. While the results of a bikini wax can be fantastic, the process of getting the wax can be a bit uncomfortable -- especially if you don't know what to expect. Don't go into a bikini wax unprepared. Prep yourself by following a few simple rules to ensure the best waxing experience possible.

Do Your Research

Research salons before booking your appointment. Look for a salon that makes sterilization a priority. For example, an aesthetician should not dip a waxing stick into the wax more than once; this can lead to the spread of bacteria. Ask questions about cleaning procedures and be sure you feel comfortable before going in for your appointment.

Make the Tough Choices

Decide what type of bikini wax you want. You may choose a basic bikini wax, which removes the hair on the sides and the top, and a brazilian wax, which gets rid of all of the hair down there. If you’re getting waxed for the first time, stick with the typical bikini, which takes less time and is also less painful.

Prepare for Pain

Don’t drink before a wax. Alcohol tightens your pores, which can lead to greater pain. Take two acetaminophen pills about 45 minutes to an hour before your waxing appointment. Keep in mind that regardless of what you do to prepare, waxing is painful and you should experience a certain level of discomfort.

Hydrate

Keep your skin hydrated by applying moisturizer and drinking lots of water. On the day of your wax, use an exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin in the area to be waxed. This will allow the wax to grasp hairs more easily. Skip the moisturizer on the day of, however; a slippery surface will make it tougher for the wax to stick.

Grow Your Hair

Keep your hair an appropriate length. If your hair is too short, the wax will have nothing to attach to. If it’s too long, it will make waxing more painful. Your hair should be anywhere from 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch to allow for better grip and minimal pain. Generally, it takes about three to four weeks for your hair to grow long enough to wax, so be patient between waxes and wait until you have enough hair to book another appointment.

Schedule Appropriately

Getting waxed during your menstrual cycle can be dicey. Some ladies have more sensitive skin during this time, which means waxing can hurt more. If you’re not sensitive during your period, go ahead and wax. If you are, wait until it’s not that time of the month. To be safe, don’t wax the week before and during your period.