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Choose your ideal style with our guide to female intimate waxing

Just the thought of an intimate waxing is enough to make the bravest of us shudder, and many women are still nervous about having it done, but the lasting silky results that you gain are definitely worth a little momentary discomfort. Remaining au naturel is also completely fine, and is just one of the ways that you can express your own identity, but what are your choices if you do want to indulge in some waxing? With so many different styles to choose from, and each with their own level of hair removal, we understand it can feel pretty overwhelming.

So, whether it’s your first time or you’re thinking about trying a different style, here’s our guide to the different intimate waxing options that you can pick from and what to expect during your salon appointment.

Bikini Wax

The bikini wax is as standard as you’ll get when it comes to intimate waxing. One of the best if you’re a beginner, it’s ideal if you just want to keep your natural hair tidied up around the edges. Whether you choose a mini touch-up or a full bikini line wax, this is an easy style to achieve all year round.

What to Expect

You can keep your regular underwear on during a bikini wax, or opt for disposable pants, because the hair will only be removed from the top of the thighs and the sides of your pubic area. They’ll use a hot wax which will quickly harden before it’s expertly removed.

Brazilian Wax

A Brazilian wax is a favourite in salons because of its versatility. Offering bare silky smoothness that’s perfect for summer, you have the option of leaving some hair around the pubic area and getting it waxed into a variety of shapes. Popular ones include the Bermuda Triangle (a wide neat triangle in the middle), the Desert Island (a small triangle on the pubic bone) or a Heart (if you’re feeling adventurous).

What to Expect

You’ll be required to wear no underwear during your appointment. A thick layer of hot wax is applied around the top and sides of your bikini line, as well as all around the back. Don’t worry, this wax will quickly harden before being removed against the direction of your hair growth. You may be asked to stretch the skin with your hands to prevent bruising, and also to provide a more comfortable experience.

Depending on your chosen shape and your hair’s density, a Brazilian wax can take approximately 40 minutes.

Do you want to learn how you can get your body ready for your salon wax? Read our handy tips at 10 Dos and Don’ts of DIY Waxing.

French Wax

A French wax (aka the Landing Strip) is the best option if you’re a beginner who wants more than just the polished edges of a regular bikini wax. It’s similar to the popular Brazilian wax, with the only real difference being that is there is no waxing in the back.

What to Expect

The hair will be removed from the front and sides of the pubic area, using warm wax and a spatula, while leaving a small rectangular shape in the middle. While it’s best to keep your underwear off during your appointment, you can ask for disposable briefs which offer more flexibility than your regular underwear.

Hollywood Wax

To put it simply, a Hollywood wax is the barest you can get. Also known as a Full Brazilian, this is not one for beginners and is a treatment that you should gradually work up to. You should also be 100% certain that you want all of your hair removed before choosing it.

What to Expect

The procedure is identical to a Brazilian wax, but the hot wax will be applied all over the front and back of your pubic area instead of leaving the optional shape. You may be asked to stretch the skin with your hands to prevent bruising, and also to provide a more comfortable experience.

Depending on the density of your hair, a Hollywood wax lasts approximately 30-40 minutes.

Californian Wax

Also known as the high bikini and extended bikini, the Californian wax is your best choice if you want to wear a thong as it keeps a little bit of hair in the pubic area. It’s similar to a regular bikini wax, but leaves a more defined triangle with narrower edges.

What to Expect

Hot wax is applied on the band of hair that runs along your outer pant line and legs. The good news about a Californian wax is that you can ask for disposable briefs if you’re uncomfortable about baring all.

What should I expect before my waxing?

No matter which intimate style you choose, the process is very straightforward. Your waxing specialist will make sure your treatment is as hygienic as possible by cleansing your bikini area with a wipe before applying the wax.

What to Expect

If there are any leftover hairs after your waxing then be prepared for the tweezers to come out. If you don’t feel comfortable with having this done then just say so at the time, because your specialist will always want you to be happy.

How should I take care of myself after my wax?

To enjoy the benefits of your waxing you need to observe the proper after care before your next appointment, which should be within three to six weeks. While redness is expected after the first few hours of your appointment, you’ll also need to take steps to avoid ingrowing hairs, irritation and infection. The easiest way you can soothe your intimate area post-waxing is by applying fragrance-free lotions and oils that are formulated for sensitive skin. You can find these from brands including Skintruth and S-PRO, and they’re also suitable for use on the rest of the body to give your skin an all-over smooth finish.

Shop all your post-waxing products here

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S-PRO After Wax Lotion 500ml
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S-PRO After Wax Lotion 500ml
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<ul><li>Calms and moisturises the skin after waxing</li><li>Soothing Tea Tree Oil</li><li>Helps to prevent irritation</li><li>With a superior blend of oils and moisturising agents</li></ul>
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S-PRO Aloe Vera & Lavender After Wax Lotion 500ml
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S-PRO Aloe Vera & Lavender After Wax Lotion 500ml
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<ul><li>Soothing lotion to calm and hydrate skin after waxing</li><li>With a superior blend of oils & moisturising agents </li><li>Helps reduce redness, inflammation & irritation</li><li>Skin feels smooth and hydrated</li><li>The perfect finish to a wax treatment</li></ul>
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