Sunday, January 13, 2013

For the ladies...let's talk about waxing!

Yes, THAT waxing!!

As a licensed esthetician with over 10 years of experience, I can say that I've probably seen it all and have answers for all your waxing questions.

Let's cover some FAQ's with regard to Brazilian waxing!

Why should I wax, when it's easier and cheaper to just shave?

Waxing isn't for everyone, but it can be!!  Waxing removes hair from the root, so the results last longer and with time can cause the hair to grow back more slowly.  Since there is no blade scraping over your delicate skin, the likelihood of skin irritation is reduced.  There is no stubble, since the hair is removed from the follicle and an entirely NEW hair is growing in it's place.  And, there is no danger of nicking or cutting your most delicate skin.

What exactly IS Brazilian Waxing?

Brazilian is a more extensive bikini wax.  I will be removing ALL the hair in your bikini area, including the entire labia and between the cheeks in back.

What should I do to prepare for my first Brazilian Wax?

First of all, relax!!  I've been doing this for a long time.  No matter how much hair you have, how coarse or curly, and how sensitive you are, I can handle it!!

When you book your first wax, please feel free to ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable, I'm here for you.  

You should not shave your hair for 2-3 weeks prior to your waxing treatment.  There needs to be enough hair length for the wax to capture the hair.  If the hair is too short you will not get a completely smooth result.  PLEASE, don't come to me having shaved a few days prior and think I can make it happen!!

Don't worry if you showered in the morning and now it's evening.  You're clean!!  If you feel more comfortable, feel free to use the moist wipes provided in the lady's room.  

If you're on your menstrual period that's fine, just please use a tampon.

Please be on time for your appointment, allowing extra time for traffic and parking, especially if it's your first time to my location.  If you're late we will need to rush, and I don't want to do that to you!!  Please understand, I've booked ample time for your treatment, and I'm usually fully booked.  I don't think it's fair to make my next client wait if you arrive late.  Likewise, you can count on me to be on time for our appointment!  I won't ask you to wait!!

I'm shy, do I have to take off my panties?

Well, yes.  Since we're waxing the labia and between the cheeks in back, you will receive a better treatment if you undress below the waist.  I will provide you with a towel, which we will use for modesty, but also to facilitate the waxing process.  You're not as exposed as you think!  Please trust me, I've been doing this for a long time!!

Is it safe and sanitary?  I don't want to catch anything!!

I practice a "single dip" method of waxing.  This means, I use a disposable spatula to dip into my wax pot, and I only use it once.  Each time I apply wax I use a new spatula.  There is no cross-contamination this way.  The treatment table is covered with fresh paper, and the towels used are freshly laundered in hot water with detergent and bleach.  Any implements (such as tweezers) are sanitized according to State Board regulations.

goddesslynneBODYandSKIN is the home of The Peaceful Brazilian Bikini Wax!

How much does it hurt?  Should I take something for the pain?

Let's review just what waxing is:  we're removing the hair from the follicle using warm wax and a fabric strip.  It's like pulling off a band-aid, but a little more!!  Yes, there is some discomfort, but it's quick and then it's over and you're hair-free!  Some times (like right before your menstrual period) can be more uncomfortable, so you'll want to schedule accordingly.  Also, the first 2 or 3 appointments (when you've never waxed before) can be more uncomfortable, as we're removing hairs that have never been waxed before.  After a couple of times, the hair comes out more easily.

Some women take an anti-inflammatory before waxing.  I cannot recommend any medication, as I'm not a doctor, but you can always try if it's something you've taken safely in the past.  The feedback I get from clients is that it makes the wax a little easier, and there's less pinkness after the wax.

Speaking of that...

What will my skin look like immediately after the waxing treatment?

Some women experience a bit of pinkness after waxing.  A very few are somewhat red.  As long as the skin is intact, this is not a problem and will subside within a few hours to a day.  Women with very coarse hair will sometimes experience a bit of "pinprick" bleeding.  This is not an injury to the skin, rather, the hair follicle disrupts nearby capillaries, allowing a tiny bit of blood to surface.  This usually only happens the first couple of times that you wax.  As I mentioned above, everything is sanitary, so there is no cause for concern.

How often do I need to wax?

I recommend Brazilian waxing about every 4 weeks.  You need to wait long enough for some re-growth, but not so long that you're starting from scratch every time.  Remember, we can't wax if the hair is too short.  At our 2nd appointment, I will evaluate your growth and advise you on the timing of your subsequent waxing appointments.

What about after care?

For the first 24 hours after waxing, please be very gentle with your skin.  Avoid tight clothing, tanning, saunas/steam rooms and jacuzzi's.  Use a gentle shower gel and keep the area clean and dry.  We will also discuss exfoliation to prevent ingrown hairs.


I take Accutane, can I still wax?

No, waxing is contraindicated for anyone taking Accutane.  You must wait 3 months after completing your prescription before any waxing treatments can be performed.

How much does it cost?

In the Los Angeles area, where I work, Brazilian waxing can range from $25 to $75 and up, depending on the salon.  Currently, I charge $50 for this service.

Do I need to add a gratuity to my bill?

It's customary to add 15-20%, but that's entirely up to you!!  It's a gift, and very much appreciated!!

Can you do a Brazilian Wax for my boyfriend?

I do body waxing for men, including bikini waxing, but not Brazilian waxing.  I will help you find a qualified esthetician if you'd like.

What other treatments do you offer?

I offer face and body waxing, facials and resurfacing treatments and peels.  I will cover these in future blog posts.  Please email me if you have any questions!!

Thank you for reading!!  I work in the West Los Angeles area, and I'd be delighted to be your favorite esthetician!!  Please email me at appointments@goddesslynnebodyandskin.com if you'd like an appointment.  Please put "waxing appointment" in the subject line, and I look forward to seeing you soon!!


2 comments:

  1. Getting all cleaned up down there does have its own benefits. It gives you more confidence, and of course, it's beneficial to a woman’s personal hygiene. There is a widespread perception that Brazilian/bikini waxing is painful, but the thing here is that there are ways and means to ease the pain of the treatment nowadays. Some apply a certain kind of cream that contains an ingredient that makes the skin numb, making the procedure practically painless.
    Justine Cricks

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks you for your comment, Justine!!

    I've had clients use numbing creams in the past, and they tend to get in the way of waxing. Even when washed off, they seem to cause a bit of hair breakage. And, remember, most of the discomfort of waxing is the hair being pulled from the follicle, which numbing creams don't address. Since they don't penetrate the skin to that depth, they only serve to minimize the discomfort on the surface of the skin.

    In any case, I usually discourage the use of numbing products, but I don't refuse to wax a client choosing to use one. I just make sure they understand that the result may not be as good as when waxed without.

    goddesslynne

    ReplyDelete