How to Prepare for a Brazilian Wax

So, you’re about to go get a Brazilian wax, huh? Okay, don’t panic. We know the mere thought of waxing can be anxiety-inducing and for some, straight-up terrifying, especially when you’re waxing your bikini area. We’re here to help make the process a little less scary and hopefully less painful, though. To do so, we tapped Alexandra Accardo, esthetician at DAPHNE Studio in New York City, to share some of her tips and tricks to properly prepare for a Brazilian bikini wax. 

Exfoliate Before Your Appointment 

According to Accardo, it is very important to exfoliate and hydrate your skin before your wax appointment to prevent ingrown hairs. “Ingrown hairs are caused by the hair follicle being removed indirectly,” she says. “As a result, the hair gets stuck underneath the skin, causing an infection.” To help avoid this, exfoliate the day before your appointment to ensure your hair is fully exposed and will be pulled out directly from the follicle. Reach for a formula that is extremely gentle for this area, like the Fur Silk Scrub. The formula is dermatologically and gynecologically tested and helps to smooth and polish the skin. 

Let Your Hair Grow

In order to get the smoothest results, you’re going to need to let your hair grow long enough that it will actually hold onto the wax. Accardo says the ideal length of the hair should be about the length of a grain of rice. Letting it grow this long will help remove the hair from the root, which in turn can help slow down the regrowth process and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.

Use Numbing Cream 

There are some numbing creams and sprays available that can help reduce the amount of pain felt during your wax. “Products that contain lidocaine are helpful because they will temporarily numb the area and prevent pain,” explains Accardo. Advil or ibuprofen can also be helpful to calm the skin down and relieve pain after your service is done. 

Read More: 
Sugaring vs. Regular Waxing: A Guide
The Best Gel Face Masks to Add to Your Winter Skin-Care Routine
5 Blemish Oils to Include in Your Acne Skin-Care Routine

Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn, Art Director: Melissa San Vicente-Landestoy, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Makeup Assistant: Nana Kumi, Hair Stylist: Kiyo Igarashi, Visual Designer: Hannah Packer, Producer: Jessica Thiel, Digital Tech: Paul Yem, Model: Cathia Sanchez