Waxing can help you feel and look your best — not only on your big day, but every day. But if you don’t know the basics about how to prep, what to expect, and proper aftercare, you could find yourself in a seriously sticky situation. So before you dive into the wonderful world of waxing, check out our comprehensive waxing guide.

Whether you’re looking for bikini wax tips, Brazilian waxing advice, or general waxing tips, keep reading to find everything you need to ensure silky-smooth success.

How Waxing Works at Lords + Ladies

You probably already know that waxing removes unwanted hair. But let’s talk briefly about our approach at Lords & Ladies.

Here are the basics: A trained technician applies hot wax to areas of unwanted hair. Then, they skillfully and swiftly pull off the wax, removing the hair at the root. Once removed, you can enjoy a smooth surface for up to 2 weeks — or potentially even longer (everyone’s a little different).

Waxing attracts devotees for many reasons. Among them? Since you remove the hair from the root, the hair won’t grow in stubbly, as it does with shaving. The hairs that do grow in typically feel finer and softer. Plus, you’re free of razors and stinky hair removal creams for weeks at a time!

At Lords & Ladies, we tailor your waxing experience to your specific needs by offering both hard and soft wax. What’s the dif? 

• Hard wax is applied to the desired area and then hardens on the skin. Strips aren’t required to pull it off — the wax adheres to the hairs rather than the skin, and when it hardens it can be pulled off directly. Since it doesn’t pull away any skin, the technician can treat and re-treat the same area multiple times without damaging your skin. This is often the type of wax used for a Brazilian or Bikini wax. (P.S. — we’ve got lots of great Brazilian and bikini wax tips below.)
• Soft wax, on the other hand, requires a waxing strip. It adheres to both your hair follicle and your top layer of skin. While it’s great for grabbing onto tiny, pesky hairs, it’s generally not favored for areas that need re-treatment in the same small space. Soft wax tends to work better on larger areas, such as the legs, arms, or back. 

Do’s and Don’ts of Waxing 

Now that you understand the basics of how waxing works, let’s dig into waxing tips that can help ensure great results every time, including specific Brazilian waxing tips and more. 

Keep in mind that everyone’s body is different, so you should consider your preferences and needs before, during, and after your waxing appointment. 

Waxing Tips: Before Your Appointment
 

DO seek out a reputable establishment. If you want a great wax, start by choosing a great place to have it done. Seek out establishments that have robust waxing offerings, sanitary conditions, and a well-trained staff (Lords & Ladies checks all the boxes). This step is non-negotiable — if you ignore it, you could put yourself at risk of painful treatments, skin irritation, and potential bacterial infections. 

DO understand the difference between waxing types. Just as there are different types of wax, there are different waxing styles. One common area of confusion? Brazilian vs. bikini wax. (Here’s the shorthand: A Bikini wax involves the removal of hair just inside the bikini line; a Brazilian bikini involves removing all of your hair, front to back, small section at the top optional.) 

DO make sure your hair is the right length. The wax needs something to cling onto — if your hair is too short, or is stubbly, the wax won’t be able to properly grip. A good general rule of thumb is ¼-inch to ¾-inch of growth. If it’s too long, you can trim or ask a technician to help you trim (additional fees may apply).

DON’T go tanning right before (or after) treatment. Tanning can make your skin more sensitive, which can make you more uncomfortable during a wax. If possible, try to avoid tanning for 24 to 48 hours before your treatment. As for post-wax? If possible, give it a day or two post-wax before you hit the tanning bed. Since some types of waxing can remove the top layer of dead skin, you’re less protected — meaning you can burn easier than usual. 

DO book (slightly) in advance. Listen, we get it. You want that perfectly smooth feeling on the day of a big event or as you head off on vacation. But for best results, build in a few days for recovery and to let any potential irritation subside. A good rule of thumb is to book your session 2-3 days in advance (slightly longer if you know you have sensitive skin) of your big event. 

DO consider the time of the month. Research has shown that menstruating bodies may be more sensitive to pain in the days surrounding menstruation. If pain management is an important objective for you, you may want to consider avoiding waxing during this time. (What if you’re not that sensitive — or if your periods are irregular and you can’t time it? Provided you’re wearing a tampon or menstrual cup, it’s OK to get waxed during your period.)

Waxing Tips: The Day of Your Appointment
 

DO take a bath or shower before your appointment. Hot water can help soften the skin and open the pores, making the hair easier to release (and potentially reducing pain). You can gently exfoliate too, but note that for those with sensitive skin or waxing newbies, the ideal zone for exfoliating is 24 hours in advance. However, avoid the post-bath or shower moisturizer or skincare regimen on the area you’re having waxed. Here’s why…

DON’T moisturize directly before treatment. We love moisturizers. However, you want to avoid moisturizing or applying oil or cream to the area(s) you’re having waxed before treatment. Here’s why: skin care products can create a barrier between the wax and the hair, preventing the wax from adhering properly. This can lead to sub-par results and potentially more ingrown hairs. No thanks. 

DO pop an aspirin or ibuprofen. If you know you have a low pain tolerance and you don’t have sensitivities to them, the American Academy of Dermatology Association advocates taking aspirin or ibuprofen about 30 minutes before your appointment to help reduce your discomfort. (Note: Consult a medical professional for specific, tailored advice.) 

DON’T drink alcohol before treatment. Having a nice glass of wine seems like a great way to soothe yourself before an appointment. But since alcohol is inflammatory, it can actually make your skin more sensitive — leading to more pain. Our advice? Savor that drink after your treatment.

DON’T wear tight, constrictive clothing. After getting waxed, your skin may feel sensitive. Letting it breathe and avoiding friction, are some of the best ways to help it feel better fast. So do your future self a solid: When leaving the house for your appointment, wear something loose and comfy. (Oh, and here’s one of our top Brazilian waxing tips: Be sure to wear comfy undies made with breathable fabric). 

DO tell your technician about any sensitivities you have. Are you allergic or sensitive to any common skincare ingredients? Or, are you taking any prescriptions? It could affect how your skin reacts to waxing. By giving your technician a heads up, they may be able to offer advice or alter their methodology to suit your needs better. 

DON’T be embarrassed / DO love your body
 Particularly with a bikini or Brazilian wax, it’s common to feel nervous or inhibited. At Lords & Ladies, we welcome every body, without judgment. Our technicians are pros, and they’ll guide you through the process with professionalism and respect. You’re safe with us. If you have any questions, please reach out — or ask your technician at your appointment. 

DO make a follow-up appointment! While individual needs may vary, here are some general guidelines: Bikini / Brazilian waxes should generally be scheduled 4-6 weeks apart; facial waxing (including eyebrows) is typically scheduled 2-4 weeks apart; body waxing, such as arms and legs, are typically 4-6 weeks apart. 

Waxing Tips: Aftercare
 

DO take care of yourself. Be gentle on yourself. While there are certain things you’ll want to avoid post-treatment, consider this a great time to treat and be gentle to yourself. (And also — you deserve it.) If your technician offers specific aftercare tips, be sure to take them into account during this potentially extra-sensitive time.

DON’T compare your results to others. No matter what your bestie or the person down the street says, your results are yours. Some people might be smooth and hair-free for a month after treatment; others might need waxing every 2-3 weeks. Some people might feel fine exfoliating directly after treatment; others might not. Listen to your body and give it what it needs. Compare = despair! 

DON’T shave between appointments. Not only can it make your hair too short and too difficult for the wax to grip, but it can cause ingrown hairs and make your skin itch. Speaking of which…

DON’T scratch ingrown hairs. If you do get ingrown hairs, try to avoid scratching them, as it can make the irritation worse. Instead, consider gentle exfoliation, and know that they are temporary. But the keyword is gentle, which leads to the next point…

DO exfoliate (once you’re up to it). While (gently) exfoliating before your appointment can help open up your pores, you might be too sensitive afterward. Listen to your body. If you’re a seasoned pro, a gentle exfoliation might feel good. If just the thought of it sounds painful, skip it. But DO exfoliate 2-3 times a week between appointments once you feel up to it. 

DON’T get too sweaty. There are times for saunas and sweaty workouts. Directly after your wax is not one of those times. Sweaty workouts can bring out the salt in your skin, which can sting. Ouch! 

DO make it a routine. Waxing becomes easier (and potentially less painful) with a regular routine. Repeatedly removing hair can damage the root, which can make the hair thin. That is a good thing when it’s not where you want it to be anyway. As you continue waxing, you may notice that your growth is thinner and softer. 

DO enlist the pros! You’ll find plenty of DIY waxing products online and in drug stores. But it takes time and practice to get it right. Avoid the pain and potential ingrown hairs — do yourself a favor and book an appointment with the pros. 

Brazilian Waxing Advice + Beyond…

You deserve to look and feel your very best. Is waxing part of that master plan? If so, we are here to serve you. Lords & Ladies offers professional waxing services from head to toe. Whether you’re looking for fresh, clean brows, or a flawless bikini wax, consider us your go-to source. 

Book your appointment today