Let’s Talk Brazilians
Oh, Brazilians. There’s nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to hair removal. We all have hair down there, and believe it or not, you’re not the only person that wants it gone. Of course, shaving will get the job done, but then the inevitable itch comes within 4 days. You know the itch when the hairs start to grow back? It’s blunt, coarse, and ITCHY.
So what do we do?
Shave it again, again, and again. Until, you want better results.
You might call up your friends and ask them what they do with their hair. Or you might do some googling and find a salon that offers cheap waxing services. Anything to push you in the direction of…not shaving.
I was lucky when it came to hair removal. My mother is an esthetician, and she took control before I even had a chance to think about waxing. So I had this idea that I would use her wax pot and just try to do a Brazilian on myself.
MAY DAY, Houston, we have a problem.
I found myself in the most contorted positions trying to pull this stupid wax strip off, and I failed miserably. I kept trying to count to 3 and rip, but I just couldn’t find it in me to pull! So, here I am in my bedroom in a pathetic sumo squat with wax strips all over my pubes. Never, again.
For those of you that don’t know the difference between a bikini and a Brazilian, I’ll give you a quick definition. A bikini is removal of pubic hair along the bikini line. The basic guideline for a bikini wax is the outline of your underwear. Wax will be applied just inside the lines of your panties so you don’t have any little hairs poking out to say hello.
A Brazilian is the full removal of pubic hair including the booty hole. Some will leave a central “landing strip”, triangle shape, or have it fully removed “bald eagle” style. Go with whatever appeals to you.
The most important thing you have to do before your scheduled appointment is to stop shaving. The hair has to be a certain length for waxing to be effective. 2.5-3 weeks growth from the last shave, or if we are getting technical, 1 cm of growth. If you go to your appointment with premature hair it’s very possible the wax will not grab the hair properly and all that pain will be for nothing.
Before heading into your appointment you’ll want to make sure you are nice and clean. Take a shower before you go, and if you don’t have time to shower at least carry some baby wipes with you and wipe off really well. Be courteous to your esthetician!
After all this work, you should find yourself feeling smooth for 2-3 weeks (varies per person). Two full weeks of no hair? Now that’s a lot better than shaving, am I right?! On average, Brazilians should be done every 3-4 weeks, and as time passes you’ll find your hair slowly starting to grow back less. Stick to a consist schedule, and you’ll find yourself taking on Brazilians like a champ!
Holly
First, I am dyingggg over your story of you trying to wax yourself!! So funny… but in all reality you’re probably not the firsts, and you most definitely wont be the last to find yourself in that position! Hair removal is something we as women tend to be embarrassed about when in all reality we shouldn’t it is natural and we all, well most of us, hate it! Thanks for talking about a hush hush topic and giving us some tips and tricks!
Holly
http://www.teachmestyle.com
Renaye
Hi Chia! I’ve always wanted to get a Brazilian wax but always been scared because i’m like “If it hurts to get my upper lip waxed, imagine the pain i’m gonna be in when i wax my private areas!” Lol.
What is the proper way to shave? My hair grows back super fast. Like i’d shave and the next day there would be hair growing back again. I don’t know how to properly describe it but when i shave its not smooth cuz not all the hair gets removed.
I want to talk to my mom about it but i’m a little embarrassed and she tends to overreact to stuff…
chia
Well, everyone’s hair grows back at different rates so it’s not unusual for you to feel growth the next day. I don’t think there is a wrong way to shave, to be honest. But listen, as scary as it sounds to get a Brazilian done, it will be over so quick if it’s done properly. I encourage you to first start with a bikini and ease your way more and more until you find yourself getting a full Brazilian! As far as your mother goes, there’s no need to be embarrassed! You never know how she’ll respond if you don’t try right?
Sandy
Hi Chia! Your story just took me back to my experience of trying to wax at home…lol. Let me just say it was unsuccessful. I tried pulling off myself and couldn’t build up the courage to and I also had my husband try but I kept holding his hand so he wouldn’t….lol needless to say we got no where! I’m gonna have to take your advice and try a bikini wax first because at this point I will be shaving for the rest of my life ? And that just sucks!!
Anonymous
Hi Chia. What is your opinion on girls who do not do any hair removal? Like on legs, arms, etc? Would you be one to call that gross because that’s what most people say….I can tell from your story you didn’t favor it upon yourself but what is your opinion of it if you saw another woman who didn’t do hair removal on visible places like arms and legs? It would be interesting to hear your opinion 🙂
chia
Lol, to each their own girl!
Aurin
Thanks for this post! I’ve been getting Brazilians for a few years now and this past year, I spent it overseas. With being new somewhere, I never got the courage to try out a new spa to get my waxes, as I had been going to the same place for years back home. So I just went a few months without waxing at all… Well one day, I decided just like you to try doing it myself and boy was that a mistake! I had all these large strips of waxes all over myself and if I had thought of using baby oil and Vaseline to get the wax off, trust me I would of! I ended up having to rip off all the strips cause I didn’t know what else to do lol. Lesson learned, always go to a professional lol
Melissa
Hey Chia, what a great article! I loved it. I was just curious, what age do you think is most appropriate to start getting a full Brazilian wax? I know you’ve been doing the bikini wax since 14, but when did you start brazilian waxing? I learned a lot from this though, you are very wise lol say hey to Tim for me too <3
chia
I was 18!
Erika
I am so glad you made this post! I’m 20 and have been thinking about a Brazilian wax for soooo long! I’m just a chicken. Haha. But honestly, I think it’s just time to suck it up. Shaving was a no go for me, and I even attempted using Nair down there at one point. NOT. PLEASANT. AT. ALL.
Idk what it is about your posts, but it finally makes me feel like I have a big sister or something. I’m the oldest of three, so it’s pretty nice. 🙂
chia
Lmao, awe!! That warms up my little heart! Thanks, Erika! <3
Yami
Hola Chia,
Glad to know I’m not the only one who tried to wax my self down there….and than get stuck doing so! I just started going and getting waxes done maybe a year ago…. And wish I started earlier. My question is how to get rid of the previous razor bumps? At times I feel like it’s pointless to even get a wax if you can still see my razor bumps in my swim suit! Any advice?
Yiang
Oh gosh! Definitely summed up what I went through. I tried doing a full Brazilian on myself as well before and yes it was a huge mistake. I kept counting to three but wouldn’t have the guts to pull lol. Thanks for being so realistic. Take care
Lynne
I actually like getting brazilians. I find it oddly satisfying and warm. Don’t get me wrong when the esthetician tells me to turn over on all fours it’s kind of awkward but when it’s over with, you feel like a new woman coming out of the salon.
I highly recommend European Wax Center for beginners. They don’t use strips because their wax can be pulled of itself. The ladies are nice and they do this freebie thing when they hire new people. No offense to you Chia or anything because my first person I went to for a Brazilian had her store but I felt she was irritated with me for not knowing how to spread my legs correctly lol.
Brazilians are a sensitive subject for most woman and I’m glad you laid it out there! Nothing to be ashamed of!
Tay
Hey Chia! Thanks for the post, I’ve been curious about bikini and Brazilian waxing since I get crazy razor bumps around my bikini line. But I still have a couple questions: So this is pretty embarrassing but I’m like really hairy so the hair extends to.. Umm.. Let’s say a little more inward than I feel like is normal? So I would have to pull the skin in a very awkward (and revealing) way. Is that normal? And safe even? To have wax that close to the super sensitive parts? I’ve been curious about brazilians and not just bikini waxes because putting a razor down there can also be quite frightening, time consuming, and not very effective.
chia
There’s nothing normal when it comes to hair. Everyone is very different! There’s a lot of pulling done in general with a Brazilian wax and there’s nothing awkward about it. Yes, it’s absolutely safe. Be sure to talk to your esthetician about any concerns you may have before starting your service. Good luck!
Isa
Hey Chia, what do you think about Epilators?
chia
I’ve never used one, so I can’t comment. I’m sure it would get the job done, though!
malina
Sounds so scary to me still D: thanks for sharing your sort and tips though 🙂 have you ever gotten laser hair removal before? If so, what are the similarities or differences between the two?
chia
Absolutely have. Laser is permanent (with a few sessions) and waxing is not. 😉 The “pain” sensation will feel very different with a laser appointment. More of a zap and less of a rip, if that makes any sense!
Victor
Are these services for males and females or would a guy have to go to some “male only” place to get hair removal down there?
chia
That’s entirely up to the place of business. The same process would be executed for a male.
Mia
Omg I’m so glad you talked about this. I’ve been thinking about getting waxed down there so what perfect timing. This post put me at ease about and also answered questions I had. Thank you so much!
chia
You’re very welcome!
Angelica
Hi Chia,
I’ve been getting brazilians on and off now for about a year. I’m 22 and I got my first one when u was 20. I struggle with ingrown hairs. Any recommendations? I’ve tried exfoliating but nothing works. Help!!!!
chia
Consistency is key!
lamara
Hello! So how do you feel about laser hair removal? Have you tried it? Would you try it? Would you start using it in your place of business? Hope you enjoyed your birthday week. Fun in the sun.
Melissa
Laser hair removal is effective but it is a bit more pricey. It feels like a rubber band snapping against your skin. But, after a few sessions you don’t feel the pain as much.
chia
Absolutely! I have had treatments done and it’s highly effective. No, this isn’t the type of service I would offer in my business at this point in time.
Ashleigh
Hey Chia 🙂 Is it safe to get lasered down there? Also, does your skin tone play a role in whether or not lasering will work? I heard darker skinned ladies can’t get lasered?
chia
It’s absolutely safe! Skin colour does play a role with laser hair removal. Be sure to have a consultation before you book your first appointment to make sure you’re a good candidate!
Jazz
Hi can you do a post about ingrown hair and how to get rid of them? All of a sudden a year or two ago I started to imget ingrown hairs from shaving, waxing and hair removal creams. I’m not sure why I have been doing these for years. I even exfoliate with bath gloves after hair removal (I normally wait a day) but I still get them really bad and deep. Do you have and suggestions?
chia
Great idea! I will work on the post, thanks for the suggestion. Perhaps you just have the type of hair that’s stubborn because it sounds like you’re doing it right. I definitely have a few clients that have unforgivable ingrown hair and I’ve referred them to a specialist to get laser hair removal. Highly effective, but pricey.
Melissa
I’ve been getting a Brazilian wax for a few months now and I love them! I used to shave but kept drawing blood and I even used Nair which was a nightmare. And because I’m a thicker girl I felt a little embarrassed about laying down in front of a total stranger and her seeing my lady bits. My aunt is an Esthetician in New York so of course I trust her to wax me. I started getting just bikini waxes but then I moved to Georgia and just let everything grow out. It’s not cute walking around with a full on bush. So, I Googled places and read reviews and now I get Brazilians every few weeks and it’s great!
chia
Good for you, girl!
Arika
Yeah, I’m definitely going to stick to keeping it nice and trimmed! Unless I decide I want to wear a bikini to a beach one day, and then I’ll do it. But that won’t happen until this summer. Which is five months away so I have plenty of time to prepare myself… I don’t think that’s enough time.
Natalia
What are your thoughts on exfoliating before and after a wax?? My hair will majority of the time seem to go the ingrown path!
chia
I am all for exfoliating, but not right before or after a wax (to avoid skin irritation). I exfoliate every time I shower with an exfoliating mitt. Lather that baby up with some soap, and scrub, scrub, scrub! Gently remove the ingrown hair if it’s visible, pop that sucker like a pimple. Gently!
Yami
Hola Chicka,
What is your advice to women that just started waxing but have the razor bump scars from when they used to shave? I just wish I started waxing Yearsssssss ago to avoid these darn scares. I still won’t wear a swim suit because of them. What’s your intake?
chia
Hello! The thing about scars is…they rarely fade. I have a couple ingrown hair scars and unfortunately, unless you’re treating the area before it forms into a scar, it’s there to stay. I am not a doctor, so treating scars is out of my expertise. If it’s something that really bothers you, perhaps a consultation with a dermatologist may be your first step.
hh
Hi Chia, loving the posts and blog!! I’m very excited for your haircare video, being mixed race myself and having frizzy dry hair I’ve come to believe that nothing will work on my hair so definitely interested in that. I wanted to ask what procedure of facial hair removal you would recommend? I’m scared to get laser because I don’t know how my darker skin would react to it. Also, I’d love to hear some tips on nail care as yours are amazing!
chia
Thanks! I’ll upload a hair routine video one of these days. Hair removal method can depend on your skin. Sensitive people may thread to avoid skin irritation. If you have normal skin you can do whichever method appeals to you.
Bri
Hey Chia!
I’ve been thinking of getting a Brazilian for a while now but I have some questions. One, is there a waxing treatment that doesn’t involve the booty hole? My hair is pretty fine there and doesn’t need much treatment. I also am curious if sex should be prolonged after the waxing? (I’m thinking the friction and sweat and stuff most likely wouldn’t be the best) And lastly, my hair grows pretty long VERY quickly. Usually after three days it’s super grown out, should I still wait 2-3 weeks to grow it out? And does this make me a good candidate for waxing, will it be worth my money?
chia
Hello!
1) You don’t have to get your booty hole done, it just makes sense because the rest will be so smooth. Why cut it short and have a hairy bum hole?
2) Yes, definitely don’t have sex that night. Ouch! Use your own judgement, only you will know if it’s uncomfortable/painful.
3) I’d just wait 2 weeks minimum. Longer hair is better than short hair and your esthetician can always trim if it’s too long.
4) Yes, I don’t see why you wouldn’t be a candidate for waxing.
Good luck!
Cat
I’m SUPER hairy (thanks dad lol) I still remember the first time I shaved and waxed , oh lord lol. I did my legs and armpits with laser and could not be happier with the results. I get a brazilian once a month and now I’m thinking about doing my entire body with laser, it is pricey but so worth it and lucky for me my esthetician offers both services – PS : thank god for all the estheticians out there, you guys are life saver !!
B
Hey!
I just wanted to know what you find best for bumps and ingrown hairs after waxing and shaving. I was told PFB Vanish works and was thinking of trying this. I have tired Tend skin care before but this did not work for me.
chia
Bumps are a natural skin response to hair removal and those usually will go down on their own (anywhere from 2-24 hours). Any type of soothing gel, lotion, or oil can help with irritation. As far as ingrown hairs goes, be sure to exfoliate every time you shower. I exfoliate everyday and that works for me. Consistency is key!
b
In addition to the above I also had a question about scarring from bumps or ingrown hairs. What helps with this best? The only thing that really has helped is aloe vera gel for me. I think I may need to see a dermatologist.
chia
If you have scarring, you’re right, a dermatologist can help!
Ashton
Hey Chia,
Great post! I’m really enjoying your blog. I hate to sound surprised but I am, but equally inspired. Keep it up girl!
Now, I’m pretty ingrown prone. From your experiences, does waxing, and a Brazilian in particular, increase or decrease the chance of ingrown hair?
Thanks so much for the insight!
chia
Thank you so much! Some people get crazy amounts and others none at all! Make sure you exfoliate, it works great to keep stubborn ingrown hair away. You may find yourself squeezing some ingrown hairs out if you do get them, that’s normal. If you already find that you’re ingrown prone then you may want to take it a step further and look into laser hair removal.
Sandra
Hi Chia! I am a licensed Esthetician myself and your post it right on point!!! Estheticians Rock!!
chia
WOO! Thanks for reading! <3
kaila
I’ve been getting waxed under my arms for about a year and have noticed some dark spots, I’ve seen your armpits in some of Tim’s videos and they are flawless. What do you suggest would bethe best way to get rid of them? I need them gone by summer time. ?
chia
Well thank you! As in your skin is discolouring? I always recommend exfoliating, but for a more drastic result you may want to see a dermatologist.
Billie
Hi Chia! Do you have any opinions about sugaring compared to waxing?
chia
Hi Billie!
It really just comes down to personal preference. Sensitive skin types may choose sugaring over waxing and some people may get less irritation and ingrown hair. In terms of hair regrowth, it’s about the same. I’ve personally have always waxed because that’s what was available to me when I started. I hope this helped a little!
Ruth
Hey Chia!
I love this. I have been so nervous about figuring out how to manage the down stairs, and it gives me comfort that I am not the only one who has dealt with my concern.
Can I ask a “stupid” question?
Is it better to wax or shave the legs? I have terrible ingrown leg hair and I exfoliate like crazy and I would love to get it waxed, but I am terrified of burning my skin because the “hair length” is not long enough. Do estheticians do legs too 0.o?
chia
No question is a stupid question! Of course they wax legs. You might find that waxing will help the in grown hairs!
Pebble
Hello Chia,
I love that you talked about this! I have a question about hair removal creams. What is your opinion on hair removal creams such as Veet or Nair being used down there? I have done it a couple times but I find myself having to be so careful the entire time because I don’t want to get the cream on any vulnerable areas. Would you say using creams is a better method for total hair removal if someone is trying to avoid the pain? If not, what would you recommend?
chia
I personally wouldn’t be putting any type of creams by my regions! Sometimes you just have to suck it up, take a couple Advil and endure the pain girl!!
Samantha
Tried that self waxing thing already. Worst thing ever. Never never.
chia
LMAO. It’s seriously the worst.
Angela
Do you have any advice/opinions about laser hair removal?
chia
I absolutely love it! I’ve had my Brazilian and underarms done. It’s painful and expensive, but totally worth it! Be sure to have a consultation to ensure you are a good candidate.
Victoria
I loved this story..unfortunately for me getting a Brazilian wax every 3 weeks is too expensive for me. In my town it’s $100.
But do you have any tips on lightening my bikini area? I don’t like wearing bikinis because you can tell the difference in my skin color.
chia
Yikes! That does sound pricey for sure. I’m not too familiar with skin lightening products…with a little bit of research I’m sure it won’t be hard to find an answer.
Stacey
Hey Chia, whats your opinion on using an epilator? I find it removes hairs which are of smaller length. but I wanted to know if it is better to wax rather than epilate
PS huge fan 🙂
chia
Hi Stacey, I haven’t personally haven’t used an epilator so, I can’t compare! I’m sure it’s effective!
Mickey
Hey Chia,
Any tips on getting rid of ingrown hairs?
chia
Lots of exfoliation and sometimes you just have to get in there and pop those suckers!
Justine
I’m really nervous I’ve never had any waxing beside my eyebrows. I have my Tylenol ready lol. My mom has never waxed there and my sister in law as well now were putting on our big girl pants and making a girls day out of this with the damn this Thanks chia
chia
This is the cutest thing ever! What a great way to spend a girls day. Best of luck to all of you! The pain is temporary and the results are worth it.
Ruby Coleman
Oh gosh! Definitely summed up what I went through. I tried doing a full Brazilian on myself as well before and yes it was a huge mistake. I kept counting to three but wouldn’t have the guts to pull lol. Thanks for being so realistic. Take care
chia
LMAO. I’m just trying to keep it real! I think there are more people who have had experiences like us, but they are too embarrassed to admit it. Everybody’s story is probably hilaaarious!
Shana
HI CHIAA!
FIRST OFF, thanks so much for filling in the gaps of a big sister! But especially the big sister beauty advice. Just wanted to know if you’d recommend sugaring? I have not had the courage yet to do a full brazilian wax, but I do wax other parts of my body. Would you recommend getting sugaring done around the bikini area?
thanks for your awesome posts!
chia
Awe, you’re so sweet! Thanks for your message. Sugaring can be great for people who have sensitive skin and yes there is no harm in treating your bikini area. If you are a little hesitant to do the full Brazilian, perhaps you can start with a bikini and work your way up!
Mari
Now I feel more comfortable about getting one. Thanks so much for your tips!
chia
You can do it!
Jay
I’m sacred to only because I want to do it to surprise my bf but I don’t know how long to wait after doing it. Will the skin be irritated after in anyway if so for how long before it looks normal? What I mean by irritated is, do you get any weird bumps or anything of sorts? Thank you in advanced.
chia
Hello! Thank you for your message. Yes, if this is your first time having a Brazilian you’ll want to give your skin a couple days to recover. Especially if you have sensitive skin, the chance of reaction is possible. It’s possible for any skin, but especially for sensitive types. You’ll want to steer clear of scented lotions, hot tubs, tanning beds after your appointment. Basically anything that may irritate the skin further.
Or you could be someone who doesn’t react at all and everything is fine! Good luck to you, you can do it! Also, be sure you are going to a professional with experience and great reviews. Do your research!
Waxing Salon Las Vegas
Waxing is an effective way to remove unwanted hair. Waxing treatments vary from full body wax, to arm, leg or bikini wax, to facial waxing or other small areas. One of the most important things to remember is to always exfoliate before waxing.
chia
Thanks for the tips!
Paul Ortiz
This is the best tips any girl will ever have for Brazilian Waxing. It is sad that girls are trying to do it all by themselves. It will always be greatful that at least you ask to your mom or elder sister. You should take the advice from the professional too. I must say, Chia has done a great work here. She has shared her experience which is very brave to do so. And I’ve seen that many girls are actually happy reading this blog.
chia
Aw, thank you for your message! You are too sweet. I always try to be honest about my experiences haha. Whether they are bad or good!
Neena Jay
Having hair growing up quickly is very embarrassing especially in exotic places where weather is hot or at summer time when most ladies want to wear less clothing. I usually recommend Laser Hair removal over waxing and threading. It is safe, smooth and leaves no traces behind.
chia
Totally agree! I’ve gotten plenty of laser treatments and love my results!
adrianna Gonzalez
Hi chia was wondering I finally got my first bikini was brazilian wax few months back I noticed after month or seem to be more darker after I got those done is this normal and is there anything I can do or should I be worried
chia
Hi Adrianna!
Thank you for your message. There are many factors that could potentially cause discoloration over time. Such as (but not limited to) sensitivity to sunlight, tanning beds, medication, etc. It might be a good idea to let your esthetician know and perhaps you could work out a solution.
Best of luck,
Chia
chia
Thanks for linking my post on your site! You have some great information about Brazilians =). Waxing down there can be such a love/hate relationship.
Xo,
Chia