All About Bikini Waxing
Ouccchhhhh!!!!
That is the word many women scream out when they think of Bikini waxing!
And can you blame them?
The thought hairs being pulled out of your skin is enough to send shivers down anyone’s spine. But it seems that bikini waxes are not all pain and tears because in recent times, they have become a standard grooming habit for thousands of women who book sessions every month without batting an eyelid.
If you have never had a Bikini wax done, and you are curious to know what it entails, here is everything you need to know.
- What exactly is Bikini Waxing?
Bikini waxing is the removal of pubic hair using a special wax, which can be hot or cold, that adheres to hairs and pulls them out when the wax is removed quickly from the skin, usually with a cloth strip.
- What are the different categories of Bikini Waxes?
There are several categories of bikini wax based on how much hair is removed and priced accordingly.
The classic shape is the ‘Bikini’ and involves a simple tidy up of hair at the front and a bit down below, so that it doesn’t extend beyond your knicker line – just enough to get you bikini-ready (this is the ideal wax for first-timers).
The ‘Brazilian or French’ involves a lot more hair removal – typically leaving just a ‘landing strip’ of hair at the front and all hair removed down below and even round the back.
The ‘Hollywood or Full Brazilian’ is total hair removal, front to back.
- How exposed are you going to be when getting a Bikini Wax?
If you are getting a Bikini Wax, then you do not have to take off your pants if you don’t want to. Beauty Therapists are very adept at working around your knickers to protect your modesty. But if you want a Brazilian or Hollywood, the Beauty Therapist may find it easier if you remove your pants or offer you some disposable pants instead. Some salons and spas which offer a form of hot wax without strips may also prefer you not wear anything. But your dignity comes first so if you feel uncomfortable, speak to the therapist.
- How Painful is the process?
Everyone has different pain thresholds but we won’t kid you that it’s painless (as many salons claim). Normally it results in a sharp intake of breath but it definitely gets easier the more you have it done. In some areas, you’ll hardly flinch; other spots may be more painful. The best therapist work in small sections and press down on the skin immediately after pulling off the wax strip to dull the pain – so ask your therapist to work this way. Popping an ibuprofen an hour beforehand also helps.
- How often do I have to get it done?
It depends on how fast your hair grows. But normally, it should be monthly or every six weeks.
- Are there any side effects or risks?
There are some cases where people get burnt with the hot wax. There can also be scarring and rashes. Some people also experience ingrown after waxing hairs.
- What Can I do to prevent the side effects and risks?
You have to make sure that you are getting waxed at a clean and professional spa. You also have to watch the hygiene of your therapist (they should have clean hands or use latex gloves; they shouldn’t double dip into the wax pot or use the same strip twice, because that can bring bacteria from your body into the wax, which will spread the bacteria around your body). To prevent ingrown hairs, you can apply an ingrown hair serum to your nether regions.
You also need to pay attention to your nether regions in the days after waxing. If you see any redness or swelling or start to feel itching or burning, you can put some over-the-counter antibiotic cream on it. If it gets really bad, please go see a doctor.
- Can I get a Bikini Wax done in Nigeria?
Yes, you can. There are many spas that offer this service. However, you need to do your research well. You need to make sure that the spa or salon is clean and has well trained therapists. You can also ask your friends; word of mouth referrals are always the best.
Sources: Cosmopolitan, Allure, Bustle and Wikipedia
