Bikini Waxes 101: What to Expect About Pain, Aftercare, and More

If you've just booked your first bikini wax, you're probably wondering what happens next. While waxing the bikini area can be a more effective hair removal method than, say, shaving, it can also be a bit intimidating—especially if you've never had one done before (trust us, we've been there). So put your worries to rest, we've turned to two experts, Gina Petak and Deidra Green of European Wax Center, to walk you through everything you can expect during your first bikini wax, from how to prepare to post-bikini wax tips.

What Is a Bikini Wax?

A basic bikini wax means the removal of hair outside the panty line. This is a great option for your first time because the most painful parts are your most intimate parts. A full bikini removes just a bit more.

There are other types of bikini waxes, but instead of memorizing them and what they mean, tell your waxer what you want to take off. They may have no idea what a "Hollywood wax" is, anyway. You can point to where you want the hair to stop. And you can ask them to remove the hair in the back, too, between the buttocks, even if you don't want a full Brazilian complete with a Brazilian facial.

How to Prepare

In order to prepare for your wax, it's recommended that your hair is at least 1/4 inch long (about the size of a sprinkle). "It’s a good idea to stop shaving at least ten days prior to your waxing reservation. Though don’t worry, your hair can never be too long to come see us," Petak says. "All of our wax specialists are expertly trained to work with all hair and skin types." However, if your hair is too long, your waxing session will be more painful.

Green says that you should always try to arrive a few minutes early. "This ensures you can answer any questions with the front desk to complete your profile. This can include anything from confirming contact information to ensuring you aren’t on any medications that might interfere with the wax."

What Happens During a Bikini Wax

Since it's your first time with the waxer, they'll consult with you first before removing any hair. They'll also examine your hair length to make sure it's long enough (more on that later) and will ask how much you want to be removed.

A common fear is that you're worried that your waxer will be judging you on your vulva and public hair, but we're here to tell you that's absolutely not the case. At the end of the day, your waxer will be focused on one thing: getting you as smooth as possible with the least amount of discomfort. That, and making sure you follow your aftercare routine post-wax, Green adds.

"Guests should feel comfortable knowing that you are working with a licensed professional who has seen everything," Green says. "Everyone is different and experienced wax specialists are used to working with all hair types, including different lengths and thicknesses."

Types of Wax Used

First of all, there is soft and hard wax. "Soft wax requires a paper-like strip to be placed on top of the wax to remove it, Petak explains. Because of this, stray hair can be left behind. Still, the method might be beneficial to people with fine hair. On the other hand, hard wax hardens enough on its own to not need this paper strip. "It adheres to the hair, says Petak. "It’s often said that hard wax is a much less painful experience than soft wax for all parts of the body." Pain, however, is subjective, and some experts say hard wax tends to be less painful.

The Waxing Process

While every waxing studio will have its own steps, most places will follow these steps:

1. Cleanse the Skin: Once you are comfortable on the bed, the wax specialist will ensure you are in a comfortable position and begin the cleansing process to remove any lotions, soap residue, sebum, and other impurities from the skin.
2. Create a Protective Barrier: The next step is to apply an oil to create a protective barrier on the skin to ensure the wax only sticks to the hair and not your skin.
3. Preparing the Wax While Consulting: While your waxer prepares the wax strips and/or warms the wax, you'll have a few minutes to discuss your wishes and ask any questions about the process.
4. Hair Removal: Once the wax is ready, your esthetician will begin actually waxing you by applying either wax strips or warmed, hard wax to your skin. They'll then remove the wax strips in quick motions, which is what actually removes the hair. As the waxing continues, you should feel free to let your esthetician know if you'd like a break (or want to stop altogether) or if anything feels wrong. For a bikini wax, the actual waxing process will take about 15 minutes.
5. Rejuvenate the Skin: Once the waxing is complete, your esthetician will apply a rejuvenating, moisturizing product to the freshly-waxed skin. It's usually a soothing, cooling gel texture that feels amazing.

How Much Does it Hurt?

A bikini wax is not typically an enjoyable experience, but most people say the discomfort of being naked on the table is worse than the pain of the actual hair removal. "Waxing such a sensitive area can be uncomfortable, especially for first-timers," Petak explains. "However, since waxing removes the hair from the root, it makes it grow softer and finer, resulting in each wax becoming less painful and more comfortable."

High-quality wax and an experienced esthetician can make the process that much more comfortable. So be sure to attend licensed salons with positive reviews, and request an experienced esthetician for your first time.

Bikini Wax Aftercare

As far as aftercare goes, being gentle is the biggest factor to consider. Avoid wearing tight or textured (i.e. lacy) underwear for the first few days and instead opt for comfortable, cotton undergarments that allow your skin to breathe. You'll also want to give the area some gentle exfoliation and moisture.

Risks and Side Effects

A bikini wax, especially if it's your first one, may result in some redness and irritation. While this is common, it can still be uncomfortable. So, use an aloe-based product and a cold compress to soothe the area post-wax.

Breakouts, ingrown hairs, and bumps may also appear after your bikini wax, but the good news is that the proper pre- and post-wax routines can help to prevent them from occurring. For instance, exfoliating the bikini area before your wax and cleansing it afterward will help to reduce the risks of side effects.