If you want to look your best in a tiny bikini, the full Brazilian wax is the way to go. However, there are plenty of things you need to consider before showing up for your appointment. You need to get your body ready, but also consider your state of mind, particularly if it’s your first time.
Here are the most important things to do before a full Brazilian wax, in order to make the experience as less unpleasant as possible. From the right way to prepare down there to other important details that you might be missing, here’s your to do list before a Brazilian.
Choose the Right Time
Even the strictest waxing schedule should make room for your period. If you’re interested in the least painful time to get a full Brazilian, that’s the week after your cycle. You should never schedule an appointment for a day or two before or after your period, since you’re likely to experience a lot more pain. Just because some cosmeticians are still willing to do it during your period doesn’t mean you should take them up.
Moisturize and Hydrate
Staying hydrated is always important, but especially when you’re about to get a full Brazilian. Make sure you drink plenty of water before your appointment. Keeping your skin moisturized is also very important, but don’t overdo it with lotion, even if it’s a light one. Make sure you don’t use any oils on your skin either 24 hours before your appointment.
Prepare to Give Up Control
Things can get weird, particularly if it’s your first time letting a hair removal professional touch you down there. You should make sure that you thoroughly explain what you want, then let them do their thing. You shouldn’t interfere or start giving advice to someone who does this for a living.
Exfoliate and Shower
If you want to prevent ingrown hairs, exfoliation is a must. Don’t be too harsh, but don’t forget about it, it’s one of the things to do a day before a full Brazilian wax. Also, try to shower right before the appointment, either at home or at the spa if that’s possible. It’s both a sign of respect for your cosmetician, who doesn’t want to get too close to a sweaty crotch, but it also reduces the right of an infection.
See also: Hair Removal Hacks for DIY Girls
Avoid Trimming Too Much
The ideal length of hair for the best wax pull is between one eight and one quarter of an inch. Anything shorter and you won’t get the best results. If it’s much longer, you’re just creating more work for your cosmetician, who will have to trim before waxing. If you schedule your waxing sessions every six weeks, you’ll be in that sweet hair growth sweet spot.
Give Your Waxer the Deets
If you have any health conditions or allergies, you should let your aesthetician know about them when you schedule your appointment. One of the important things to do before a full Brazilian wax is also letting your waxing specialist know about any topical products you’re using. Retin-A and AHAs shouldn’t be used before waxing, and medications like Accutane are also incompatible.
Avoid Alcohol and Stimulants
Drinking alcohol and stimulants like coffee is a bad idea before a full Brazilian. They both tighten your pores, and they can also dehydrate you, which mean more pain.
Prepare for the Pain
One of the things to do before a full Brazilian wax is to be prepared for pain. It’s better to book the appointment in the morning, when you’re less stressed out, but if you can’t, consider taking a Tylenol an hour before. Avoid pain killers like Advil, that contain Ibuprofen or Aspirin, since they can thin your blood and extend any bleeding.
Accept that the First Time Is Always the Worst
The first time you’re getting a new area waxed should always be the most painful. After you get through it, the hair follicle will get thinner and easier to pull out.
More: Worst Hair Removal Mistakes You DON’T Want to Make
Bring the Right Kind of Underwear
The last thing you want after waxing is friction. One of the most important things to do before a full Brazilian wax is get some granny panties. Full-coverage underwear made from soft cotton will keep you comfy and reduce any painful friction. And replace those skinny jeans with sweatpants.
