If you’ve never had a bikini wax before, it can feel somewhat daunting. Here I will answer all of my most frequently asked questions about intimate waxing. From how long it takes and how it’s done, to preparation and aftercare. I’ll also explain the different bikini wax styles and what you can expect.

What is a bikini wax?

Let’s start with the basics – what is a bikini wax? A bikini wax is a beauty treatment to remove hair from the pubic region. It can range from the traditional bikini shape, which involves tidying the pubic area to ensure no hair is visible outside of the knicker line, to a Hollywood wax which involves all pubic hair being removed.

There are four standard bikini wax styles:

What’s a standard bikini wax?

A perfectly shaped upside-down triangle of hair is left, with no hair escaping the knicker line at the top of the thigh.

What’s a high sides or extended bikini wax?

Similar to the standard bikini wax, the high or extended bikini wax removes more hair to leave a smaller and more defined triangle.

What’s a Brazilian wax?

A Brazilian is sometimes nicknamed ‘the landing strip’! It removes all of the pubic hair but leaves a small neat strip on your pubic bone. This waxing involves removing pubic hair on the labia and through into the buttocks area.

What’s a Hollywood wax?

The Hollywood wax involves complete removal of all of the pubic hair, from the pubic bone, the labia and between the buttocks. It’s the complete hair removal solution.

We’ll answer more in depth questions about these different types of bikini wax styles later in this guide, but first let’s take you through some general intimate waxing questions.

How long does a bikini wax last?

Probably the most commonly asked question to waxing is how long does a bikini wax last?

The answer is that it does depend slightly on how fast your hair grows. Generally you can expect it to last between 4-6 weeks until you’re ready for your next wax. Most people find that regular waxing means that the hair regrows much thinner and finer.

Does a bikini wax hurt?

Again, the answer to this does vary slightly. There’s no escaping that your first intimate waxing experience may be accompanied by a smarting sting. However, as an intimate wax specialist I ensure that I use methods and techniques to minimise the discomfort. Additionally, after the first time, it’s not as uncomfortable as the hair follicles have less ‘grip’ on the individual hairs. Most clients report that it didn’t hurt as much as they anticipated it would.

How to prepare for a bikini wax

In the couple of weeks before your first session, don’t shave or use any other hair removal techniques. The hair will need to be at least 5-10mm.

The night before your wax, have a lovely warm bath and gently exfoliate the area. This removes dead skin and will make the process easier. Prior to your treatment, have a shower for freshness and to relax.

 The treatment will take between 15-30 minutes depending on your chosen style. 

It’s normal to feel nervous the first time you have an intimate wax but I promise you I have seen all shapes, sizes and amount of hair & I will do my best to help you feel comfortable

Brazilian vs Hollywood wax

Ultimately, the choice between Brazilian and Hollywood waxing rests on personal preference. Some people prefer to leave a strip of hair (Brazilian) while others prefer complete hair removal (Hollywood).

Just remember that there is a bigger difference between a bikini wax and a Brazilian or Hollywood wax. With the Brazilian and Hollywood the hair is also removed from the labia. With a standard bikini wax, this hair isn’t removed.

Is getting a Brazilian wax awkward?

A very common question for anyone getting an intimate wax done for the first time. It’s very normal to feel nervous but you honestly have nothing to feel embarrassed about.

How is a Brazilian or Hollywood wax done?

First up, you’ll be asked to undress from the waist down. I will then discuss your preferred style. You’ll then be left to get underessed and wipes will be provided for you & you will be given a disposable covering to protect your modesty. I'll then pop back into the room and will start by applying oil to the area as this prevents the wax from sticking and protects the skin. 

I use a specialist hot wax designed for intimate waxing. Using disposable wooden spatulas I will start to apply the wax in small sections. NEVER DOUBLE DIPPING THE SPATULAR...YUK! Once the wax has hardened, I will quickly peel back the wax, removing it from the skin along with the hair. Occasionally a few odd hairs may be missed but I  will use tweezers to remove these. Lastly, a soothing cream or oil may be applied to prevent any ingrown hairs, and to prevent irritation.

How long does a Brazilian or Hollywood wax last?

Like with a standard bikini wax, a Brazilian or Hollywood wax lasts around 4-6 weeks. For some people, the gap between waxes may be as frequent as every 3 weeks.

How long does a Brazilian or Hollywood wax take?

Usually, a Brazilian or Hollywood wax takes around 30 minutes from start to finish.

Does a Brazilian or Hollywood wax hurt?

All intimate waxing stings a little for a short while, improving with repeat treatments. Does a Hollywood wax hurt more than a bikini wax? The skin on the labia and between the legs is obviously more sensitive than the skin along the bikini line. As such, both a Hollywood and a Brazilian wax come with a little more discomfort. However, this really does get better over time and the benefits are certainly worth it.