What is a Brazilian wax and how does it work?
A Brazilian wax is the most popular treatment at First Wax, and yet it is the one we get the most questions about. What exactly is removed, does it hurt, and when is it better to wait? Here are the honest answers, so you can arrive relaxed.
Aleksandra Kravchenko · 27 October 2026 · 4 min read
In short
- With this treatment almost all hair in the bikini area is removed, root and all.
- You stay smooth for three to six weeks, without stubble; hair often grows back finer.
- Do you use isotretinoin, tretinoin or antibiotics? Then check with us first, as your skin is more vulnerable.
- A bikini line costs €40, every Brazilian style €55.
What is a Brazilian wax?
With a Brazilian wax we remove almost all the hair at the front of the bikini area. Usually a small triangle or a narrow strip remains; how big is up to you. If everything goes, including around the labia and between the buttocks, it is called a Hollywood. With a regular bikini line, we only remove what shows outside your underwear. You can see all six styles on the bikini line or Brazilian wax page.
Waxing, shaving or hair removal cream?
| Waxing | Shaving | Hair removal cream | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smooth for | Three to six weeks | One to three days | A few days |
| Stubble | Hardly any | Quickly | After a few days |
| Skin | Lightly exfoliated and soft | Risk of red bumps | Can irritate |
| Regrowth | Often finer | Just as thick | Just as thick |
The American Academy of Dermatology also notes that the results of waxing can last a few weeks or longer, because the hair is removed at the root. Shaving only cuts the hair off at the surface.
How it works at First Wax
After a short intake, we apply warm wax in small sections. Once the wax has set, we remove it in one quick movement while holding the skin taut, so each pull is as short as possible. We work with Lycon, a professional wax that grips the hair and barely sticks to the skin. Including the intake, you are usually done within half an hour.
When is it better to wait?
Besides the hair, waxing also removes a thin layer of dead skin cells. If your skin is more vulnerable, that can cause irritation. The American Academy of Dermatology advises against waxing if you use isotretinoin (for example for acne), tretinoin or antibiotics. We also wait in case of small wounds, eczema or sunburn. If in doubt, let us know beforehand.
Your first time: what to expect
Almost everyone finds the first time a little nerve-racking. The first treatment is often the most sensitive, because the hair is still thick and your skin is not used to it yet. After two or three times, hair grows back finer and it becomes noticeably more comfortable. A few things that help:
- Let the hair grow for two to three weeks, to about the length of a grain of rice.
- Exfoliate the day before and come without cream or oil on your skin.
- Plan just after your period if you can; just before, the skin is more sensitive.
- Wear something loose, so nothing rubs afterwards.
After the treatment
Your skin may be red for a short while; this usually fades within a few hours. Avoid sun, sauna, swimming and intensive exercise for the first 24 hours. After that, exfoliate once or twice a week to prevent ingrown hairs. If you come back every four to six weeks, your appointments follow the rhythm of the hair growth cycle and the result stays at its most even. Would you rather stop waxing altogether in the long run? Then read our article waxing or laser hair removal.
Aleksandra is happy to answer them personally. Send a WhatsApp, also if you are unsure which style suits you.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Brazilian wax and a bikini line?
With a bikini line, only the hair that shows outside your underwear is removed. With a Brazilian wax almost everything goes, except for a small triangle or strip. A bikini line costs €40, a Brazilian €55.
Does a Brazilian wax hurt, and how can you make it more comfortable?
The first time is usually the most sensitive. It becomes more comfortable if you come regularly, because the hair then grows back finer. Avoid planning just before your period and come with exfoliated, dry skin.
How do I prepare for a Brazilian wax?
Do not shave for two to three weeks, so the hair is about as long as a grain of rice. Exfoliate the day before and do not use cream or oil on the bikini area on the day itself.
How long does the result of a Brazilian wax last?
Usually three to six weeks. Because the hair is removed root and all, you do not get stubble as you would after shaving.
How often should I have a Brazilian wax?
Every four to six weeks. By then the hair is long enough again and it grows back more and more evenly, so each treatment goes faster and feels more comfortable.
