Things You Should Never Do After Getting A Brazilian Wax

Setting your first waxing appointment can be a bit scary, but for many individuals, it's the best option for removing unwanted body hair. A Brazilian wax is often considered the gold standard for eliminating pesky pubic hair with minimal irritation and long-lasting results (via Self). Unlike a bikini wax, a Brazilian wax focuses on removing hair in and around the pubic region and external genitalia, according to Healthline. Individuals have the option of complete or partial hair removal, according to their preference. 

The process is fairly simple. When you arrive for your appointment, your technician will take you into a private room where you will undress. Depending on the hair removal salon and your individual preferences, hot wax may be applied to the area with paper or cloth strips (via Healthline). After a few seconds, the technician will remove the wax (and strips) along with the body hair. An oil, cream, or salve is typically applied to help soothe irritation post-removal. Whether you're a first-timer or a repeat customer, there are a few things that you should know before your next Brazilian wax.

Deciding to go full Brazilian can be a bit of an intimidating decision, especially if you're new to body waxing as a concept. There are a few standard pre-appointment practices that can help make your experience a bit easier. First and foremost, Queen Bee Salon and Spa recommends showering prior to your appointment. Second, be sure that the pubic hair is long enough to be waxed. Most salons indicate that hair should be at least ¼ inch long, so allow the hair to grow for a couple of weeks prior to your appointment.

Another recommendation is to use a gentle exfoliation product or mitt on the area of skin during your pre-appointment shower (via Healthline). This helps to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs (via Self). Be sure not to consume alcohol or too much caffeine before your appointment. You can also pre-emptively take an over-the-counter pain reliever or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) before your appointment. But what should you do following your wax appointment?

While your pre-appointment care is important, your post-appointment care can affect the long-term results of your Brazilian wax, according to Healthline. Glamour recommends avoiding direct sunlight, hot showers, baths, and tubs and saunas to reduce irritation to the skin. Waxing can cause mild irritation, swelling, and sensitivity, so it's best to avoid hot climates which may further irritate your skin. 

Additionally, you should avoid immersing yourself in chemically treated water (such as that found in swimming pools) to reduce the risk of infection (via Byrdie). It's also a good idea to avoid wearing tight clothing or materials that do not offer a level of breathability. Tight or stifling clothes can increase the risk for ingrown hairs, according to Byrdie. 

Another strong recommendation from Glamour is to avoid over-exfoliation post-wax. While some exfoliation is needed, you can also increase the risk of ingrown hairs if you exfoliate too much. Following your Brazilian wax, you'll also want to avoid vigorous exercise and sexual activity (via Hello Giggles). Both of these activities can lead to friction across the newly waxed skin, leading to increased irritation and potential ingrown hairs.