Brazilian Wax Vs. French Wax: Unveiling The Distinctions

Written by Lopa K18th Jan 2024
Brazilian Wax vs. French Wax: Unveiling the Distinctions

With the crazy salon lingo, deciding on a hair removal technique for down there can seem like you’re trying to solve a jigsaw puzzle especially when you are about to get a bikini wax. French and Brazilian wax may seem like different names for essentially the same thing — waxing the pubic area—but guess what, they’re all different.

We know this can get extremely confusing, which is why we are here to help. We’ve come up with a detailed guide on everything that entails bikini waxes such as Brazilian wax meaning and aftercare, so that you know exactly what you are getting into the next time you visit the salon.

 

Bikini Wax Basics

FAQs About Brazilian Wax Vs French Wax

The most common form of waxing, a bikini wax is ideal for beginners. It is also perfect for someone who wants to wear hot shorts or a bikini (summer vacay feels, ya know?). This form of waxing consists of waxing the exposed skin after wearing a bikini – the sides of your legs/thighs, your panty line and below the navel. A bikini wax forms a neat inverted triangle of hair that perfectly complements the panty line of your bikini.

A bikini wax is mainly for beginners and won't take off much hair. This kind of waxing is only meant to be the first step towards more painful waxes. It is ideal for quick clean-ups and does not require you to remove your panties. So for those who aren't comfortable being naked around a stranger, a bikini wax is the one for you!

What is a Brazilian Wax? 

Even though extremely popular, Brazilian is the most painful. This is because when you opt for Brazilian wax, you are asking for your entire pubic region and the bottom to be waxed bare. Ideal for someone who wants to go completely hairless down there, this form of waxing could prove to be slightly embarrassing considering that awkward positions will be involved so that the parlour technician can do a better job.

When to do it? If you wish to get rid of all the hair down there, then it is one of the benefits of Brazilian wax. It will completely remove every bit of hair and will be a painful session. You will have your undies off during this type of waxing.

What is a French Wax?

Just like bikini wax, French wax also does not remove all the hair; it leaves a tiny bit behind. While most of your hair is removed, a small strip or triangle of hair in the front is left untouched. It includes the benefits of Brazilian wax except in the front and is also known as the landing strip. You can also ask the back to be left untouched if it is too painful.

When to do it? French wax is ideal for first-timers or those who want to shorten the duration of the pain. But you will have to remove your undies for the most part.

 

Waxing Tips for an Easy Experience

FAQs About Brazilian Wax Vs French Wax

Before visiting the salon for a Brazilian, French or bikini wax it is important to follow a few tips to ensure the session gives good results.

Be clean - By clean we don't mean remove the hair yourself, but make sure to take a shower before the appointment. Wash thoroughly with warm water and soap. Carry cleansing wipes if required for a quick cleanse before the session starts.

Exfoliate your skin - Exfoliate the skin the day you have your appointment, this ensures your wax goes on evenly. It will also allow the hair to get uprooted with ease.

Get ready for the pain - Waxing is painful and it can be a good reason for anyone to cancel their appointment. But there are a few ways to reduce the pain. Avoid alcohol and caffeine a few days before the appointment to make the pain more bearable. Mentally prepare for the pain. Don’t forget to take deep breaths! And as a last resort, if absolutely needed, pop a painkiller 45 minutes before the appointment.

Avoid five days before and after your periods - Your skin is extra sensitive while you are on your periods and just before it starts. It is best to avoid scheduling an appointment during this time.

Choose your wax - When it comes to waxing, one size fits all seems appropriate but there are a few different types of waxes that offer different results. There is cold wax, warm soft wax for fine hair, sugar wax to avoid ingrowth, chocolate wax to avoid inflammation and warm hard wax for thick hair (perfect for the bikini area).

 

Aftercare and Maintenance

FAQs About Brazilian Wax Vs French Wax

French Wax

So, you've opted for a French bikini wax and want to make sure your skin stays smooth and happy afterwards. Post-wax care is key to maintaining that fresh feeling. Firstly, avoid hot showers or baths immediately after to prevent irritation. Opt for loose, breathable clothing to allow your skin to breathe and minimize friction. Consider applying aloe or something soothing like the Vaseline Ice Cool Hydration Lotion to calm redness or sensitivity. It is light and non-sticky, perfect for humid and sweaty environments. Exfoliating regularly (gently!) can help prevent ingrown hairs and bumps. Lastly, schedule regular waxing appointments to keep that sleek look—typically, every four to six weeks.

Brazilian Wax

Ah, the Brazilian bikini wax—a bold choice! It has the same aftercare as French wax such as avoiding hot baths, tight clothing and all that jazz. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to avoid irritation. And don’t forget to apply a soothing cream like Vaseline Jelly. An age-old remedy, it has triple-purified petroleum jelly and is clinically tested to soothe the skin. Remember, a little goes a long way in calming the skin and reducing any redness or inflammation.

 

FAQs About Brazilian Wax Vs French Wax

FAQs About Brazilian Wax Vs French Wax

Q1. Should I trim hair before a bikini wax?

No, while you may feel your hair is long or be embarrassed to show it to a stranger understand that trimming can make it short. Waxing short hair is tricky and difficult, it may even prevent you from getting the desired results.

Q2. How do I prepare for my first bikini wax?

It is important to prepare yourself mentally and physically before going in for your first bikini wax. You should know that it will be a bit painful and if your threshold is low pop a painkiller. Of course, don't forget to take a shower and cleanse the area well before going to the salon.

Q3. How to do bikini wax at home?

Waxing can get pretty messy, especially Brazilian wax at home so do it in small sections. The fear of pain may compel you to apply the wax all at once and rip it off but that's not how waxing works. Start at the pubic bone, since it is easier to reach and flatter to cover. Next, wax the area between your thigh and crease, one side after the other. A mirror will come in handy for the back if you want the full Brazilian. Going in small section-by-section moves will help you cover the whole area as desired.

Lopa K

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