The Best Types of Body Waxing: Your Complete Guide to Hair Removal

Waxing serves as a thorough hair removal solution that is suitable for both men and women alike. Many people tend to appreciate the advantages of waxing because its results last much longer than those of other hair removal methods available today. However, you probably have a lot of questions if you are new to the world of waxing. This comprehensive guide to waxing covers what waxing is, the types of body waxing, and the facts you need to know about waxing.

Types Of Body Waxing And How Waxing Works

Waxing functions by pulling the hair out from the root. The majority of individuals can undergo a type of waxing session and appreciate the benefits as long as it is performed by a professional.

There are two primary categories of wax: hot wax (which includes both hot wax and strip wax) and cold wax. Each of these varieties comes in various scents and colors.

What Is Hot Wax?

As the name indicates, hot wax is heated to a temperature range between 40 and 50 degrees Celsius. It is subsequently applied to the skin with a wooden spatula. The therapist allows the wax to cool and harden completely before pulling it off, along with the unwanted hairs.

One specific type of hot wax is called strip wax. Again, the hot wax is spread over the area that is being treated. The therapist then places a disposable strip over the wax and patiently waits for it to cool down.

Once cool, the therapist removes the strip, bringing the wax and hair. The warmth and density of hot wax cause the pores to open a little more, making the wax more effective at removing all of the hairs at once.

Hot wax versus strip wax: There is a long-standing discussion regarding hot wax compared to strip wax and which one is superior. When performed by a skilled professional, both options can lead to an outstanding hair-free result.

It depends on which area is being waxed and the client’s preference. Usually, strip wax is highly effective for larger body areas, such as legs, back, and arms, where the skin tends to be less sensitive. Hot wax is good for sensitive areas, such as the bikini area, where hair is thicker.

What Is Cold Wax?

Cold wax is available on strips designed for a specific body area, such as the upper lip. These strips are placed on the area and then pulled off quickly. They are generally used for at-home waxing but are less effective and usually require multiple repetitions.

There are some people who we recommend to choose a different form of hair removal. Individuals who suffer from hypersensitive skin, hemophilia, and diabetes should choose different options. If you have sunburn, a rash, or any contagious skin condition, you need to wait until your skin is healthy again.

If you are currently undergoing electrolysis treatment, please avoid getting waxing in the same area. We will cover waxing during pregnancy and during your period later in this helpful guide.

How Long Does Waxing Last?

The duration that waxing remains effective relies on the specific area of the body and the rate at which your hair grows back. For instance, when clients inquire how long leg waxing will remain effective, we typically suggest they anticipate enjoying smooth legs for six weeks.

In the case of bikini waxes, it generally lasts around three to four weeks. After a waxing treatment, you will learn how long your waxing results last and when to schedule your next treatment. The frequency of waxing is a personal choice, but our waxing therapists usually notice clients prefer to wait 4-6 weeks between treatments.

Where Can You Wax?

Legs

This is clear, as many individuals wax or shave their legs for smoothness. Various methods are available to accomplish this, and many individuals prefer shaving instead of waxing due to the discomfort usually linked with waxing.

However, once you begin doing it consistently, it will probably start hurting less over time.

Bikini Area (Pubic Hair)

If legs are the most commonly waxed area, the bikini line is likely the second most popular choice among individuals. Bikini waxes are well-known for being extremely painful, and waxing your bikini area can be challenging for many. However, when done by a professional, it can make for a much better experience at the beach.

1 . Classic Bikini Wax

A basic bikini wax typically only removes the hair visible around the bikini line. Some hair may remain and can be creatively sculpted into a landing strip, triangle, or other style options. If you are a waxing newbie, this is your best bet.

2 . Mini Brazilian

A mini Brazilian bikini wax treatment removes the hair from the front area, leaving it bare and smooth. When you go for a mini Brazilian, you should be prepared to lay comfortably on your back with your legs bent and feet pressed together, similar to a butterfly position. From that point onward, it’s all about maintaining steady breathing and anticipating the application of wax strips until the entire job is finished.

3 . Full Brazilian Wax

The full Brazilian wax is similar to the mini Brazilian wax, but the backside area is also waxed. Now, this is where things get a little more intimate (as if being pantsless and completely spread eagle wasn’t already so awkward). To access the backside area—a.k.a. your butt crack—your technician will generally follow one of two methods. You’ll either lift one leg at a time so that a quick strip can be quickly ripped away, or you’ll turn over onto all fours. I hope you are not feeling shy!

Underarms

This is yet another very well-known location for hair waxing services, even though many individuals choose to shave their underarm hair instead of waxing. You will generally want to hand this task over to another qualified professional.

While you can perform it yourself, you will want to stretch the skin effectively before you remove the wax, and it is much easier for another person to do that for you.

Arms

Like waxing the legs, many people opt not to use this method. For most individuals, arm hair is thin and not noticeable, so it doesn’t pose a problem. However, wax your arms and legs if your arm hair is coarse or dark.

Stomach

Many individuals who wax their bikini area will also choose to wax their stomachs, and even those who don’t wax their bikini area will likely want to remove some of the hair on their stomachs. Typically, you will only wax the hair right along the top of your bikini area. This may not be worth the effort for individuals with light or fine hair, as stomach skin is often sensitive, but those with dark or coarse hair might want to consider it.

Back

The back area usually has a fair amount of hair, particularly near the lower part. Unfortunately, this area is also one of the hardest places to wax effectively. If you plan to wax your back, you will need assistance because attempting to pull off the wax by yourself rarely works.

Face

You can easily wax your upper lip and eyebrows, significantly simplifying your makeup routine. Be careful the first time you wax your eyebrows, and remember to go slowly. You can always take off a bit more hair, but you definitely can’t put it back on.

Hands and Feet

Although you might not think about it, you can grow some pretty coarse hair on the knuckles of both your hands and feet. Because of this, some people wax their hair off, especially if it’s particularly dark.

Does Waxing for Hair Removal Hurt?

Waxing is a method that involves pulling the hair straight from the root, which tends to be more painful compared to other hair removal methods.

However, this varies based on several factors, and most of our clients say that the discomfort they feel often improves over time, quickly fades away, and is ultimately worth it for the smooth finish they achieve.

The level of discomfort someone experiences is also influenced by the skill and expertise of the therapist performing the waxing. At On the Avenue Salon, we ensure that all our therapists are professionally trained and understand how to minimize clients’ discomfort, even those with sensitive skin. The more consistently you wax a specific area, the less uncomfortable it will be in the long run. A helpful tip is to take ibuprofen, if you can, about 45 minutes before your scheduled treatment.

Preparing To Be Waxed

If you have decided to get a wax, you likely have many questions about preparing for it properly. Pick a qualified and experienced beauty therapist. This does not mean you are required to go to a salon. You will feel much more at ease and relaxed getting the wax done in your home. Additional preparation is also needed. Stay clean, and your aesthetician will discuss what they need you to do. Many clients like to exfoliate the area a few days ahead of the waxing session to enhance the results and loosen any ingrown hairs.

Do you need professional waxing services? Please reach out to us to book an appointment!