The honest guide to your first Brazilian wax

If you’re reading this, you’re probably a little nervous about your first Brazilian. That’s completely normal — and honestly, it’s one of the most common questions we get asked at the salon. So we’re going to be upfront about everything: what it actually feels like, how to prepare, and what to expect from start to finish.

The short version? It’s much quicker and much less painful than most people expect. But let’s get into the details.

What actually is a Brazilian wax?

A Brazilian wax removes all hair from the bikini area — front, back, and everything in between. Some clients prefer to leave a small strip or triangle at the front (sometimes called a “landing strip”), and that’s completely fine. Your therapist will ask about your preference before starting.

It’s different from a standard bikini wax, which only tidies the hair visible outside a swimsuit line. A Brazilian is more thorough, which is why it takes a little longer and costs a bit more — but most clients who try it once never go back to standard bikini waxing.

Before your appointment

Hair length matters

Your hair needs to be at least 5mm long — roughly the length of a grain of rice. If you’ve been shaving, that usually means waiting about 2—3 weeks after your last shave. If your hair is too short, the wax can’t grip it properly. Too long and it’ll hurt more than it needs to, so if it’s been a while, a quick trim with scissors beforehand helps.

What to skip

• Don’t exfoliate the area on the day — you want your skin calm, not sensitised
• Skip the caffeine if you can. It heightens sensitivity (we know, it’s a big ask)
• Avoid booking right before or during your period when skin tends to be more sensitive
• Don’t apply moisturiser or oil to the area — it can interfere with the wax adhesion

What you can do

• Take a mild painkiller like paracetamol 30 minutes beforehand if you’re worried about discomfort
• Wear comfortable, breathable underwear (cotton is great) and loose clothing
• Have a shower or freshen up before your appointment — it’s just a courtesy that’ll help you feel more comfortable too

What happens during the appointment

Here’s a step-by-step of what a typical session at Beauty on Park Street looks like:

1. A quick chat. Your therapist will ask if it’s your first time, check for any skin sensitivities or medications (some acne medications thin the skin), and ask about your preferred shape.
2. You’ll get comfortable. You’ll be in a private treatment room. You’ll remove your underwear and lie on the treatment bed with a towel. Your therapist has done this thousands of times — there’s no awkwardness.
3. The wax goes on. We use premium hot wax (not strip wax) because it grips the hair rather than the skin, which makes it significantly less painful. The wax is applied in small sections.
4. Quick pull. Once the wax sets slightly (a few seconds), it’s removed in one quick motion. Your therapist will immediately apply pressure to the area, which naturally reduces the sting.
5. Repeat. The whole process works in small sections. The entire Brazilian typically takes about 20—30 minutes.
6. Finishing touches. A soothing lotion is applied, and your therapist will check with you that you’re happy with the result.

Does it hurt? Let’s be honest.

Yes, there’s a sting — especially the first time. But here’s what our clients consistently tell us: “It was nowhere near as bad as I expected.”

The first appointment is always the most uncomfortable because the hair is at its thickest and the follicles haven’t been weakened yet. By your second or third session, the hair grows back finer and sparser, and the discomfort drops significantly.

“The least painful wax I’ve ever had. They were so incredibly accommodating.” — Ashley W., Google Review

Technique matters enormously here. We use premium hot wax rather than strip wax, which makes a real difference. And we never re-dip spatulas — not for hygiene theatre, but because it actually matters.

Aftercare: the first 24—48 hours

Your skin will be a little pink and sensitive right after the wax. This is completely normal and settles within a few hours. Here’s how to take care of yourself:

• Avoid hot baths, saunas, and swimming pools for 24 hours — your pores are open and susceptible to bacteria
• Skip the gym on the day. Sweat + freshly waxed skin = potential irritation
• Wear loose, cotton underwear for the rest of the day
• No sun exposure or tanning on the area for 24—48 hours
• Avoid touching the area — your hands carry bacteria

Preventing ingrown hairs

Ingrown hairs are the most common concern after waxing. The good news: they’re almost entirely preventable with a simple routine.

• Start gently exfoliating the area 3—4 days after your wax (not before), using a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt
• Exfoliate 2—3 times a week between appointments
• Keep the area moisturised with a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturiser
• Do not shave between waxes. This is the number one cause of ingrowns. Wait for your next appointment — even if there’s stubble.

How often should you wax?

For the best results, book every 4—6 weeks. This keeps the hair on the same growth cycle and means each session gets progressively quicker and less uncomfortable. Most of our regular clients come in every 4 weeks like clockwork.

Common first-timer questions

”Can I get a Brazilian during my period?”

Technically yes, but your skin is more sensitive during this time. If you can schedule around it, do. If not, just wear a tampon or menstrual cup — your therapist won’t mind at all.

”I’m embarrassed about someone seeing me like that.”

This is the most common worry, and the one that disappears fastest. Your therapist is a trained professional who does this all day, every day. There’s no judgement — it’s as routine for us as cutting hair is for a hairdresser.

”What if I haven’t groomed in a while?”

Genuinely not a problem. We’ve seen everything. Longer hair just means a quick trim before we start. Don’t let this stop you from booking.

”Can I get a Brazilian if I’m pregnant?”

Yes, it’s perfectly safe. Many pregnant women prefer waxing over shaving as their bump grows. Just let your therapist know so they can adjust positioning for your comfort.