What the heck should you expect for your first Brazilian?
You've taken the first step! You've decided to get a Brazilian, but what do you even do to prepare for that? Is it painful? What should you even expect? I've got the answers! Follow these waxing tips for a great first visit, and better results.
Before your first appointment
Don't worry about being judged!
It's easy to think about such a service and be worried about how a strangers going to look at you. I promise you don't have anything to worry about. The main thing I'm thinking about is which wax to use, if I can get that ingrown out, or if I've missed anything. You're probably not the hairiest person I've ever had. You're probably not the most sensitive person I've ever had. Don't be embarrassed about the hair you have. That's why you're here!
To remove hair, you have to have hair.
There's been plenty of times where I've had someone come in, just to turn them away because they've shaved too recently. For the wax to properly adhere, it has to be a certain length. Usually this would be about 2 weeks worth of growth. That should look like a grain of rice, or a sprinkle. No need to trim if it's been longer than 2 weeks. It comes off all the same. For your first appointment, or if its been over 8 weeks since your last one, the hair might not all be on the same growth cycle. Hair has 3 cycles of growth, and while you shave the hair will be on all different cycles. Some will still be under the skin, some will be half way to its full length, and some will be ready to shed and start over. This means after your first wax there still might be some hair left behind. Don't worry! After a few waxes(usually 3-4) on a regular schedule the hair starts to sync up growth cycles, and your hair comes out all together for a smooth wax. Just hang in there! If you're planning on staying on the waxing train, don't touch the stubbles that are left behind after the first wax. Allow them to grow in to be removed on the next one.
Exfoliate a day or two before your appointment.
This isn't necessarily a must, but it definitely helps the process. Exfoliating before your waxing appointment removes the dead skin that might get in the way of the wax adhering as well as it could be. This can be with a washcloth, exfoliating mitt, or a dry brush. You'll be doing a lot of exfoliation in between appointments as you go along anyways, so might as well get started on the routine.
Take a break on the acids.
If you're using any kind of acids(glycolic, lactic, salicylic, etc.) on the area to be waxed, it's best to stop use of these for at least 3 days before and after your wax. These ingredients can cause extra irritation or even skin lifting when used too close to a wax.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol the day of your appointment.
I know, I know. No coffee?! I feel you. However, the caffeine in coffee, energy drinks, and sodas can cause your skin to be extra sensitive. If you can't function without that caramel macchiato, I recommend making your appointment as early as you can. You can always grab it afterwards. *There's a Starbucks next to my location that makes that super convenient* Alcohol on the other hand makes the blood rush to the surface of your skin and causes major sensitivity when waxing. I know it might seem like a good idea to get tipsy before your first run in with your waxer, but ultimately it makes it so much worse. Best to avoid it until the afterparty.
Wear loose clothing.
There's nothing worse than getting your first fresh wax, then having to squeeze into a pair of skinny jeans. It's just plain uncomfortable. Wear something breathable and loose. Think sweatpants, basketball shorts dresses, and skirts. As for underwear, I'd go with something cotton. Don't be afraid to go full granny panty or loose boxers for your first Brazilian. It's all about comfort.
Moisturize until the day of your appointment.
Lotions can make the skin and hair oily, and too slick for the wax to stick. Moisturizing is important for waxing for sure! Just make sure you're doing it every day but the day you decide to wax. Regular moisturizing of the skin can help the wax and hair release easier.
Plan around your cycle.
For those of us that have a menstrual cycle, you may want to plan around it. You can definitely be waxed during your cycle, but it's not the most pleasant of experiences. Your pain threshold is lowered during this time. It can be a liiiiittle bit more uncomfortable. For the first time, I'd try to plan it a week after your cycle is over.
What To Expect
Intake Forms
When you make your appointment you'll get an email that has an intake form where you'll inform me of anything that may interfere with waxing, tinting, or anything else.
How long does it take?
Brazilians take about 10-20 minutes depending on if you need a break, how much hair you have, and how coarse your hair is. Post Wax Calming Treatments add on an extra 30 minutes. I highly recommend the Calming Treatment for your first time to bring down inflammation that your skin isn't used to yet.
What's the process like?
Once you come inside you'll be asked a few questions just to make sure you're ready. You undress in the same room, and sit up on the table. That means everything from the waist down. No underwear left or anything. Don't worry too much about it, I'm going to see everything in the end. It's okay I promise! Once you're up on the table you sit in butterfly position. That's feet together, and knees out. It might be a little uncomfortable at first. It's actually pretty nice as a stretch though.
Steps:
Cleanse - I use a prewax cleanser to make sure your skin is free of any oils and dirt
Grapeseed Oil - I use a tiny amount of Grapeseed Oil to add a barrier between the skin and the wax.
Powder - Same as the Grapeseed Oil, this adds another tiny barrier to protect the skin.
Wax - I mainly use hard wax for Brazilians. That means the wax hardens and is able to be picked up by itself. This is usually easier on the skin than strip wax.
Back Strip(optional) - Most of my clients think this is the most awkward part, but it's the least painful part. You pull your knees up to your chest, and in 2-4 strips it's all over. You can skip this part if you're not totally comfortable with it. No worries.
Tea Tree Oil - Tea Tree Oil is great for healing and calming the skin after a wax, especially if you have ingrown hairs.
Cold Jade Roller(optional) - Jade Rollers are great for reducing inflammation. They come right out of the fridge, so they're pretty cold. They feel great after a wax.
High Frequency(optional) - High Frequency is loud, and scary looking, but won't hurt at all. In fact, you probably won't even feel it. It kills bacteria on the skin and helps heal any spots you may have, and prevent breakouts in the future.
Get Dressed - You're done! Nothing left but to pay, go over aftercare, and set up your next appointment.
Yes, it's going to hurt. I'm sorry!
There's no way around it. Pulling hair out from the root is going to be painful. Your first wax ever will probably be the worst. After that though, your skin gets used to it a bit and it gets so much easier. You just have to make it through that first one! I always give my first timers the option to take some moments to breathe, or take baby steps into the waxing world. Everyone goes at their own pace. There's no shame if waxing isn't for you, I promise. Not everyone has the pain tolerance for it. You never know until you try though! You got this!
It will be okay.
At the end, you'll be okay. If you choose to keep waxing, that's great! If not, that's okay too. I'm proud of you for getting out of your comfort zone and trying something new. The best thing to do for yourself is to calm down, take a breath, and please don't watch Youtube videos of people getting their first wax. Hope to see you soon!