Types of Bikini Wax, Results and Aftercare
There are three types of bikini waxing available:
- American bikini wax: hair removed from just under the navel and above the thighs
- French bikini wax: hair removed from the anus and labia. Only a strip of hair is left on the front.
- Brazilian bikini wax: all hair removed from front and back. Also known as the “Hollywood bikini wax” or “full bikini wax”
The method for hair removal depends upon the desired bikini wax style.
American Bikini Wax
When doing an American style bikini wax, the hot strip method is ideal. Unlike French and Brazilian waxing, the American bikini wax does not remove hair from the labia, so the use of hot wax is completely safe. Hard wax can be used as well (though is not necessary).
The following is the standard procedure for an American bikini wax. Hair should be trimmed to 1/2 inch prior to waxing. While still wearing panties, create an even line on the sides of both thighs. Pull out any hairs that should be removed from under the panty line. Additional hairs can be trimmed with scissors or electric trimmer prior to waxing.
Next, apply an antiseptic to the area, pat it dry and apply powder. Then, use one hand to keep the skin taut and the other should apply wax with a spatula against the hair growth. For example, if the hair grows downward, apply the wax with an upward sweeping motion. Then apply another layer of wax in a downward motion (with the direction of hair growth). The hair left during an American bikini wax should be two inches wide and four to five inches long.
When removing the wax, always pull against the direction of hair growth in a single, sweeping motion. Be sure to follow through with motion to ensure all hairs are removed. It is not advisable to re-wax an area.
How long does an American bikini wax take?
An American bikini wax should take 20 – 30 minutes at a salon.
How long does an American bikini wax last?
First time waxers should return within two weeks for a follow up waxing. Generally 4 to 6 weeks between treatment. Hair re growth is usually finer and softer, with many reporting hair reduction after repeated treatments.
French Bikini Wax
OR…
A French bikini wax is the removal of all hair from the back, and leaving a small strip of hair on the pubis area (sometimes called a “racing stripe”).
The method for removal is similar to an American bikini wax. The strip method is used on the buttocks and frontal area but not along the labia (which requires depilatory hard wax).
Hard wax does not stick to skin like the strip method, so removing hair from the labia is not as uncomfortable as many believe. Hair along the labia grows inward, which makes pulling against the growth impossible (you’d hit the thighs). Therefore, once the hard wax is applied you can pull inward or upward, depending on which direction hair generally grows.
How long does a French bikini wax take?
A French bikini wax should take around 45 minutes.
How long does a French bikini wax last?
Generally, a French bikini wax lasts 4 – 6 weeks. First time waxers should return within two weeks for a follow up waxing.
What is a Brazilian Bikini Wax?
A Brazilian bikini wax – also known as a “Hollywood wax” or “full bikini wax” – follows the same method for a French bikini wax; the only difference is the removal of the strip of hair on the pubis region. A Brazilian bikini wax removes all hair from front to back.
Like the French bikini wax, strip wax can be used on all areas except for the labia region. Wax should be applied against the hair growth, then a second layer applied with the hair growth, then removed against hair growth. The only exception is along the labia, when the pull should be directly upward.
Once hair is removed, apply antiseptic lotion – such as salicylic acid – and pat dry.
How long does a Brazilian bikini wax take?
A Brazilian bikini wax should take 45 minutes in a salon.
How long does a Brazilian bikini wax last?
First time waxers should return after two weeks for a follow-up waxing. After that, Brazilian bikini waxes last for 4 – 6 weeks.
Brazilian Wax Aftercare
It is important to note that after a Brazilian bikini wax, blood spots may appear. This is a good thing. It’s a sign that the hair was removed at the root. Red spots will dissipate shortly as blood is reabsorbed into the skin.
Is A Male Bikini Wax Possible?
Yes. There is no real difference between female and male bikini waxes. Strip wax is used on the outer and rear areas, with hard wax generally used along the scrotum and base of the penis.
Male bikini waxing is growing in popularity, as it provides smoother skin for 4 – 6 weeks (as opposed to shaving, which only lasts a few days before stubble reappears).
Men interested in bikini waxes should speak with a professional before deciding on this method. Despite what many may believe, a male bikini wax is not any more uncomfortable than female bikini waxing. For more information, please visit our male pubic hair removal section.
