Have you ever gone to get a bikini wax and were confused by all the different options available? I recently sent a friend to a spa where I used to get waxed, only to have her tell me that she was not at all happy with the results. Of course you know I was upset, because I recommended this place and then she also got less than perfect service and she didn't get what she was expecting. But after further investigation, she got exactly what she asked for. She asked for a bikini wax, figuring they would take off the majority of the hair, that was the case at the place she normally frequents... $25 bucks and she practically has a Brazilian. Well, this place was nothing like that place and she was upset because $35 later and she still has a bush. Here are the different types of waxes I've encountered and what they mean.
Basic Bikini Wax: Think of a tradition Victoria's Secret cotton panty, whatever stray hairs are on the outside of that panty will be waxed away. This is your grandma's bikini wax, definitely not for the low rise generation.
Playboy Bikini Wax: Think of the red Baywatch bathing suit. Very high cut on the legs, anything that shows on the outside of that bathing suit is waxed away, plus some off the top. I would consider this to be your mom's bikini wax, it's sensible and gets off enough for a full coverage tankini bottom.
Brazilian Bikini Wax: contrary to popular belief, a Brazilian may or may not be a wax where everything comes off. Most well trained and professional waxers will ask whether or not you want the 'landing strip' left or removed. Also, a Brazilian may or may not include waxing of the buttocks as well.
Egyptian Bikini Wax: I have only seen this once, in NYC actually and I had to go into the Spa and ask "what is an Egyptian Bikini Wax?" I was told that unlike the Brazilian that leaves a tiny strip of hair, the Egyptian wax removes any and all hair.
So the moral of the story is to speak up and make sure what you are asking for matches what you are expecting, when in doubt always ask questions. Here are more waxing do's and don'ts straight from Waxing guru
Leah Nacion, owner of
The Waxing Co. in Hawaii.
DO Forget Razors’ Edge - According to Leah, waxing makes skin softer and it lasts much longer than shaving. It can also seem more hygienic because it creates a cleaner and fresher feel that lasts about four weeks before new growth begins.
DON’T Be Fooled - The simple truth is home waxing kits aren’t as effective. Professional estheticians are trained to know the best conditions under which to wax – with high quality products and excellent technique. Temperature of the wax is important to avoid burning the skin, and high-quality products pull the hair up by the root, which avoids hair breakage that can cause ingrown hairs and discomfort.
DO Prepare - Preparation beforehand is also important. Hot showers and exfoliating softens hairs before waxing making it easier to remove. Leah also suggests applying a topical pain relieving cream to soothe and reduce discomfort. The Waxing Co. uses their special “No Scream Cream”. Ask your estheticians for a similar product to apply. (editors note: I've tried Relax and Wax No Scream Cream and it really only takes a tiny bit of the edge off so DON'T expect it to help out a lot)
DO Shape It Up - Shaping up that down-there hair doesn’t mean only daring to go bare – there are other options … creative ones. Waxing into shapes or designs is one of Hollywood’s hottest trends. Or add some bikini “bling” with Swarovski crystals in shapes of hearts, initials or stars on the hip.
11:00 AM by Joi
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