by BR Tabby
I spoke to Zoe. a NASA schooled Beauty Therapist and a certified Nail Technician and got the low down on the Braz.
Zoe says when it comes to waxing, the area that she's questioned about the most is waxing "down there". And rightly so - we don't want to subject our lady area (and ourselves) to unnecessary embarrassment or pain, am I right?!
The beauty industry is ever changing, to adapt and evolve to society. Societal expectations, limitations and advances affect how women chose to present themselves. Over the last few years one change has been prevalent - Standard Bikini lines and 'G' waxes are becoming a thing of the past. The most common bikini wax is now...The Brazilian!
Originating from, you guessed it, Brazil, this wax has been making an impact - it's risque and controversial nature has landed it the topic of conversation in many a tabloid and TV show. Who can forget the classic Sex and The City episode where Carrie and Charlotte both inadvertently end up "taking a trip to Brazil"?
Firstly - flashing your privates is always going to be a little uncomfortable, which is why you will feel much more comfortable if you visit a qualified and reputable therapist. "Trust me - intimate waxing is something we do several times a day, it's no more embarrassing for us than an eyebrow or leg wax - honest!" Zoe assures me, in a tone I believe. Plus she's waxed me many a-time and can still look me in the eye!
Secondly - what can you expect pain wise? Well that will vary from person to person depending on your pain threshold. Some ladies even report more discomfort having their legs done than their "ahem.." Popping a couple paracetomol an hour before can assist in minimising the discomfort. There is no doubt that the first time will probably be the worst, but this is where your therapist comes in, she is expertly trained to perform the proceedure as quickly and painlessly as possible.
Once upon a time fashioning our downstairs hair into triangles and landing strips was considered bold. The full Brazilian (also known as the Hollywood) has pushed these shapes in to the 'conservative' waxing style.
However much you decide to bare, it's important to properly care for your skin after a wax. For the first day or so after don't take a hot bath, avoid tanning beds*, saunas or steam rooms. Wear loose cotton undies and if the area is uncomfortable use a cold compress to soothe. Also avoid waxing for a few days before and after your period - your skin will be much more sensitive close to shark week!
When it comes to pruning the lady garden, what do you go for? The barest look of all, or do you leave a little something-something there?
*Avoid these anyway, what are we, heathens?!
I've not had a Brazilian wax since 2011. My partner at that time found it disturbing that my genital region resembled that of a pre-pubescent girl. As a compromise (because I liked the smooth sensation of a waxed crack & vulva) I retained a triangle at the top. Though since having a child & becoming a single oarent, both time & cost meant waxing my nether regions was no longer a priority. Getting waxing done immediately after my period finished meant minimal pain. I will do it again but as my body has also changed, I'll be leaving a triangle up top. By the way, in Brazil a Brazilian wax is about $10 NZ & is perfect! In truth all waxing in Brazil us very affordable & guaranteed to exceed expectations. I've found NZ beauty therapists to be hit & miss. What a shame the airfares are so costly to get there lol.