PreWax Care Bikini/Brazilian Wax
Pre and post-wax care are just as important as the waxing itself.
The right prep helps ensure a smooth, effective wax with less irritation, while proper aftercare soothes the skin and prevents issues like ingrown hairs. Skipping these steps can lead to redness, breakouts, and discomfort—things no one wants after a wax! In this post, we’ll break down why pre- and post-care matter and how to get the best results from every wax.
Hair Length: Your hair should be at least ¼ inch long for effective waxing. ✂ I can trim if needed. If you want to trim a bit with scissors, that’s ok. Just don’t get too close to the skin!
Cleanliness: Make sure you are extra clean front & back right before your appointment. A shower right before your appointment opens up the hair follicles. But if you can’t, I recommend Bushbalm wipes<– This one is made specifically for pubic areas for women. They are great to carry in your purse. Perfect for those long plane rides! I also carry them in the shop!
Scrub: Exfoliate (scrub the area with a scrub brush, face cloth or body scrub), cleanse and moisturize daily. I give all of my clients free exfoliation gloves!
Pain: Consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen about 30 minutes before your appointment to reduce discomfort. Things that will make you more sensitive to your wax include tiredness, being close to your cycle, pregnancy, hangovers, and too much caffeine. Try Numbing cream!
Avoid the sun: No tanning or prolonged sun exposure at least 24 hours before your appointment, as sunburned skin is more sensitive and prone to irritation.
Skin Sensitivity: Let me know if you have any allergies or skin sensitivities, or if you’re using products like retinoids or acne medication that might affect your skin.
Post-Waxing Care:
Avoid Heat and Friction: Stay away from hot showers, saunas, or steam rooms for at least 24-48 hours. Skip exercise or activities that cause heavy sweating for the first day. ( if you absolutely must do one of these, make sure you shower right after.
Keep the Area Clean: Wash the area gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
Underwear: For the next few days, don’t wear tight panties. Try to wear all cotton without lace.
Soothe the Skin: Apply a post-wax soothing serum to calm redness and inflammation. Avoid products with alcohol, fragrances, or strong chemicals. I highly recommend the Canadian Company Bushbalm.
Exfoliate (After a Few Days): Lightly exfoliate daily.
Moisturize Regularly: Keep the area hydrated with a light, non-comedogenic lotion or oil.
Avoid Irritants: Skip tanning beds, sunbathing, or applying self-tanners for at least 48 hours. Refrain from swimming in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the ocean for ⏰ 24-48 hours to avoid irritation or infection.
Hands Off: ☝Don’t touch, scratch, or pick at the area, as this can bring bacteria and cause ingrown hairs.
Stay Consistent: Book your next wax appointment 4-6 weeks later for the best results. Regular waxing weakens hair growth, making future sessions easier and less painful.
Pro Tip: If you notice persistent redness, irritation, or bumps, consult your esthetician for advice or consider using a product designed for ingrown hair prevention. <- Ingrown hair treatments that work blog post.
FAQ about waxing
→How long will the area be red?
It should go away within a couple of hours; however, clients with sensitive skin may notice it takes up to a day. You can use a soothing cream to help get rid of the redness.
→How long will the results last?
First-time clients will notice the regrowth typically from 2 to 3 weeks. When you start to wax regularly on a schedule, the length of time between waxes will get longer, generally four to six weeks. After your fourth or fifth visit at 4-5 week regular intervals, all your hair will be in the same hair growth cycle and will be a good waxable length at the same time. After further appointments, You will start seeing the same effect as regular waxers.
→How can I prevent the pain?
The least painful time to wax is 5-14 days after your period. Do not drink coffee or alcohol before your waxing appointment. Take an ibuprofen 30 minutes before your appointment. Or apply a numbing spray or cream before your appointment.
→How can I prevent ingrown hairs?
Follow pre-care and post-care! or check out this whole blog post Ingrown hair treatments that work
→Will it hurt less the second time?
Yes, because the hair is growing back as new hair, it is softer and thinner and has a smaller root bulb.
→Can I get waxed if I have hemorrhoids?
YES. 90% of my clients have hemorrhoids.
→How often should I get a Brazilian wax?
In the first six months, I recommend every 4 weeks. After that, every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your hair growth. If you turn out to be a “holiday waxer” that’s cool too. To get the best results, you should start a regular regime but you should come at least 2-3 times before your vacation or big day.
→Can I be waxed when pregnant?
Yes. There are no restrictions on waxing when pregnant, and I have lots of experience waxing pregnant women. You can come right up to your due date. BUT. It will be more painful. I do not recommend getting your very first wax while pregnant.
→Can I wax during my period?
Yes. Use a fresh tampon (cut or tuck string) or diva cup and be “hygienically present” before your appointment. Please also mention it to me. Almost every single day I wax someone on their period. It does not bother me. But I get it.
→What is blood spotting?
Hairs in the anagen (growing) stage of the hair growth cycle are supplied by tiny blood vessels. When an Anagen hair is forcibly removed by waxing, a small amount of blood tiny drops) may travel up through the channel in the skin where it was previously. You probably won’t event notice.
→Can I shave in between appointments if I have to?
You can, but it screws up growth cycles a bit, and your next wax will be much more painful. (Do what you have to do. I know last-minute trips to the pool come up.)
→Why do you use so many different types of wax?
Different types of hair need different types of wax.
→Is sugaring better than waxing?
NO! With each method, you pull the hair out by the roots. The difference is that most wax is oil-soluble, and most sugar is water-soluble. It’s a different technique with a different product. Like hair stylists, we use different products and procedures to remove hair.
→How can I get the best waxing results?
In the days leading up to your appointment, Moisturize and exfoliate! Follow Pre/ Post care instructions.
→Do I have to trim before I come?
You don’t need to.
❓Post-Wax Reactions – What’s Normal and What to Expect
Why is my skin red or warm after waxing?
This is totally normal!
Waxing removes hair from the root, which can leave the skin red or sensitive for a few hours to a day. A cool compress or fragrance-free lotion can help soothe the area.
Why am I getting little white bumps or breakouts?
You may be experiencing folliculitis, which is inflammation of the hair follicle.
This happens when sweat or bacteria enters freshly waxed skin. Wear loose clothing and avoid workouts, pools, or hot tubs for 24 hours. I also recommend a post-wax serum with tea tree oil.
What causes ingrown hairs?
As the hair grows back, it can sometimes curl under the skin and get trapped.
To prevent this, exfoliate gently 2–3 times per week and use an ingrown hair treatment if you’re prone to them.
Why is my skin itchy or dry after waxing?
This can happen as the skin adjusts.
Use a fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the area hydrated. Avoid scented products, hot baths, or anything that could irritate the skin for 24–48 hours.
What are these dark spots or patches?
That’s called hyperpigmentation. It can happen if the skin gets inflamed or is repeatedly waxed without proper aftercare.
Use sunscreen and stick to your aftercare routine. If you’re concerned, ask me about brightening options.
I bruised—should I be worried?
Bruising is rare but can happen, especially on sensitive areas like the bikini line.
It may be due to thin skin, medications, or not enough skin support during the service. It usually goes away on its own.
Why does my skin feel raw or look shiny?
You may have experienced skin lifting, where the top layer of skin comes off with the wax.
This can be caused by sensitive skin, medication, or exfoliating too close to your appointment. Keep the area clean and apply a healing balm like Polysporin. Contact me if you’re unsure what to use.
What if I get a rash or reaction?
Some clients may be sensitive to certain waxes or products.
Please let me know if you have allergies or have reacted in the past. I use high-quality, professional wax suited for sensitive skin, and I can adjust your aftercare as needed.
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