Debunking the Myths Of Brazilian Waxes
Intimate waxing can be a scary thought to some women.
We’ve all heard or read countless horror stories of Brazilian waxes gone wrong. However, you rarely hear how such experiences can be avoided. For first-timers, a Brazilian can be quite terrifying, but knowing what to expect can help to calm your nerves.
Pre-Waxing Preparation:
- Avoid UV rays for 24 hours prior to the wax, as it may thin the skin.
- Gently exfoliate the area to be waxed 24 hours before the waxing service (i.e. using a washcloth in the shower).
- If you are pregnant, ask your doctor if it is safe to wax.
- Grow hair at least ¼ inch (about the length of a grain of rice). Hair exceeding ½ inch may require trimming prior to your appointment.
- Book the appointment for at least a week after your menstrual cycle.
Advantages of Brazilian Waxes:
- Smooth, hairless skin for 4-6 weeks.
- Complete removal of unwanted hair.
- Over time, the hair will become lighter, finer, and more sparse.
- The pain will lessen with each regular waxing appointment.
Things that could go wrong and how to avoid or treat them:
- Histamine reactions - Temporary red, itchy bumps are common after body waxing. Using Finipil on the affected area after your wax helps to relieve bumps, redness, and itching. (You can purchase Finipil at K Bella)
- Bruising - Those with sensitive or thin skin are more likely to experience bruising (I’m one of them). Luckily, bruising generally disappears after 24-48 hours. Also, remaining still and not pulling away from the wax strip will decrease your chances of bruising.
- Ingrown hairs - It is important to remember that after waxing, your follicles are completely empty and skin grows easier over empty follicles. Regular, gentle exfoliation and use of Finipil keeps skin soft and prevents it from locking new hair beneath the surface of the skin.
- Pain - Taking Motrin prior to waxing can ease pain during and after. However, the pain will lessen with each regular waxing service as the hair follicles become weaker. For nervous first-timers, starting with a bikini wax is a good way to ease into a full Brazilian.
- Awkwardness - Please keep in mind this is my job and I do this every day. I will do all I can to make you feel relaxed and comfortable!
- Hair grows back darker and thicker - MYTH ALERT! When waxing, the hair is completely removed from the follicle! Over time, this will weaken the follicle and cause slower hair growth.
- Risk of infection - I have read about extreme cases where people have claimed they got an infection from Brazilian waxing. The only way I can see this happening is as follows:
- The infection was already present but was not noticed until after the wax was performed.
- The skin was broken during the wax, probably due to thin skin from UV exposure or excessive exfoliation. Using Finipil (antibacterial post-waxing lotion) keeps broken skin free of bacteria.
- The technician was irresponsible. For example, did not wear gloves while performing the service, used contaminated applicators, or used contaminated wax. (This is why it is extremely important to be sure you are visiting a responsible technician who uses antimicrobial wax and sanitary applicators.)
Please keep in mind that your waxing technician is only involved in your waxing experience for a short amount of time. It is your responsibility to properly prepare your skin before waxing and to care for your skin after waxing.
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Author: Meghan Ranville
She encourages her clients to try new services and to utilize everything the spa offers. Her honesty and reliability allow her to build trusting relationships with her clients.
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