How Long Does a Brazilian Wax Take?

By Natalie Arroyo Camacho, Contributing Writer

Not everyone knows about Brazilian waxes and what happens during a session. To educate our readers, we’re dedicating this post to talk about one of the most popular questions asked about Brazilian wax: How long does a Brazilian wax take? We’ll also cover other info you might be interested to know, like what a Brazilian wax is.

Though shaving is often the go-to method for folks removing the hair from their nether regions, I have to admit that a Brazilian wax gives a much cleaner look. In case you’re unfamiliar, a Brazilian wax removes all the hair from the bikini area—the top, sides, and front. That’s precisely why it’s an effective way of achieving smooth skin all over. 

And while it’s true that removing the pubic hair on your bikini line can be quite painful, it’s well worth it. Getting a Brazilian wax is a great way to prevent ingrown hairs because it pulls hair straight from the root, as opposed to cutting it at the surface.

How Long Does a Brazilian Wax Take?

Typically, a Brazilian wax will take around 15 to 20 minutes. Of course, that can change depending on the person and other factors. Some other factors include the density and coarseness of your hair, when your last wax was, and the type of wax the professional is using.

And, to be sure, if you’ve never had a Brazilian wax before, it could take up to a half hour. It makes sense when you think about it. For instance, you may not be used to the pain—and so you might need to take a few breaks.

What To Expect During A Brazilian Wax

Before you get a wax, you should exfoliate.

Between 24 hours and 48 hours pre-wax, you should do a gentle exfoliation of the bikini area. This will help remove any dead skin along that area, which is good because it can help make the process less painful.

You’ll be escorted to the waxing room.

Because of the private nature of a Brazilian wax, your wax specialist will lead you to an enclosed room. There, you’ll get a cleansing wipe and a sheet. The cleansing wipe will be for you to clean the area that’ll be waxed. The sheet will be for added privacy.

You’ll need to remove your bottoms, including undies.

I realize that being nude around strangers may make some folks uncomfortable, but that’s the name of the game when you’re getting a Brazilian wax. After your waxer gives you the wipe and sheet, you’ll need to get naked—but only from the waist down.

Your waxer will come back and begin the process.

Before they enter the room, the person performing your wax will knock on the door to make sure you’re ready. If you are, you can verbally tell them to come in. From there, they’ll walk you through the whole process. They’ll discuss how you’ll be positioning yourself and where they’ll start. Then, they’ll begin the Brazilian wax.

For the most part, the waxer will begin in the front of the pubic area and work their way from there. Once they’re done with the top of the pubic area, they’ll wax hair around the external genitalia, then go to the inside of your thighs, and complete the process around your anus.   

Brazilian Wax Aftercare Tips

If you’re unfamiliar with aftercare for Brazilian wax, consider this your lucky day. We’re here to walk you through a simple step-by-step process.

Avoid the sun—at all costs.

Because the waxed area will be highly tender, the most important thing you can do as far as wax care goes is stay out of the sun. 

Stay away from water.

Following your bikini wax, you might also want to stay out of the pool, beach, sauna, and gym. This may seem counterintuitive, but it’s because pulling your hair from the root leaves your pores open. Going into the pool, for example, might make you susceptible to an infection.

Wait a couple of days before getting intimate.

I’m hands down a sex-positive girl. However, I draw the line where safety is a concern. And, as consensual as the intimacy might be, it’ll also be dangerous post-wax if there’s a certain amount of friction involved. Just wait a few days and you’ll be good to go.

To end on a helpful note: If you’re looking for a place to get a wax, consider European Wax Center.