A Brazilian wax can give you silky-smooth skin for weeks at a time, and you can make the most of each session by incorporating appropriate Brazilian wax aftercare into your daily routine following treatment.
How you care for your skin after a wax impacts the recovery process and the length of time you can enjoy the results. Ready to learn more? Today, we’re discussing the aftercare techniques that will help you get the best results from your Brazilian wax.
What to know before your Brazilian wax
The first step of Brazilian waxing takes place before you arrive at your hair removal clinic. Here are the best ways to prepare your skin for treatment:
Let hair grow to the right length
In order to safely wax hair, you need to let it grow to about one-quarter inch long. This length ensures the wax can adhere to each strand to avoid breakage, which can cause ingrown hairs and other adverse effects.
Exfoliate before your appointment
Dead skin cells can interfere with the hair removal process and clog pores and follicles in your freshly waxed treatment area. To avoid complications like folliculitis after your Brazilian wax, gently exfoliate your bikini area about 24 hours before your appointment.
Arrive with freshly cleaned skin
Right before your session, use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oils, and bacteria from the treatment area. Arriving with a clean bikini area will minimize the risk of infection and other negative side effects.
What to expect during your Brazilian waxing appointment
If you’re preparing for your first Brazilian wax, you’ll want to know what to expect from your session. Here is a guide to the process to get you started:
How long does a Brazilian wax take?
On average, Brazilian wax appointments take 20 to 30 minutes to complete. New clients may take longer than those with an established waxing routine, as a consistent treatment schedule can minimize hair growth and streamline the process for next time.
What kind of wax is used?
Hard wax is commonly used for Brazilian and bikini waxes since it’s gentle on the skin and less likely to irritate sensitive areas. This type of wax adheres only to hair instead of skin for a more comfortable treatment.
Is Brazilian waxing painful?
We know how it sounds–yanking out pubic hairs from the root must be excruciating, right? Well, not exactly! The first pull tends to be the worst since it’s an unfamiliar sensation, but many people quickly adjust to this discomfort.
You may not even flinch by the end of your initial session. But if needed, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen about an hour before your appointment.
Brazilian wax aftercare to maximize results
Now that you know all the ins and outs of Brazilian waxing, let’s discuss proper waxing aftercare to enhance your results and soothe your post-wax skin.
The first 24 to 48 hours post-wax
It’s normal to experience redness, swelling, and sensitivity in the hours after your Brazilian wax. You can use a cold compress or pure aloe vera gel to calm inflammation and provide a cooling effect. Some find that an antiseptic cream helps prevent infection caused by harmful bacteria. Otherwise, keep the area dry for the first 24 hours and then apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
Excessive heat will not be your friend during this time, so avoid sun exposure, hot water, steam, and strenuous activity as your skin recovers. You should also stay away from the sauna, swimming pool, salt water, and bathtub. Instead, stick to lukewarm showers in the early days after treatment. Wear comfy, breathable clothing like loose cotton underwear and avoid all unnecessary friction.
Three to five days post-wax
As your skin begins to heal, you’ll need to gently exfoliate the treatment area to eliminate dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs. Be careful to avoid damage. Remember, your post-wax skin will be delicate in the days after your Brazilian wax.
Be sure to drink plenty of water and moisturize the area twice a day to keep your skin happy, healthy, and hydrated.
One to two weeks post-wax
Your aftercare practices don’t end as soon as your skin heals from your Brazilian wax. After all, these skincare techniques should help extend the length of your results, so you’ll need to keep performing them! Continue drinking your water, moisturizing, and exfoliating regularly to maximize your results.
Don’t forget to schedule your next session for four to six weeks post-wax to reap the rewards of a regular waxing routine!
Get the Brazilian wax aftercare insights you need from Enso!
The experts at Enso can help you maintain smooth, supple skin with waxing. Whether you want professional insights into Brazilian wax aftercare or you’re looking for the ultimate products to remove unwanted hair and achieve touchable skin, we’re here to help! Browse our collection of waxing products, or contact us today to learn more!
