Bikini Waxing

Bikini & Intimate Waxing

"Bikini waxing" refers to removal of pubic hair around the swimsuit line; intimate waxing more broadly covers a range of pubic hair removal styles including Brazilian and Hollywood. These services are commonly offered in salons by trained technicians and require particular attention to hygiene, consent and aftercare.

Common styles

  • Bikini (basic): hair outside the panty line is removed, often neat and trimmed to suit swimwear.
  • French: most hair removed from the front, leaving a narrow vertical strip.
  • Landing strip: a small horizontal strip of hair is left on the pubic mound.
  • Brazilian: most or all pubic hair is removed from the front and labial regions; can leave a small strip or triangle if desired.
  • Hollywood (full): complete removal of pubic hair including labia and perineum.

Preparation & hygiene

  • Trim long hair to about 0.5–1 cm before the appointment to make waxing less painful and more effective.
  • Shower and avoid applied creams or oils on the day; salons often provide pre-treatment cleansing.
  • Avoid sexual activity, tanning and strong exfoliation for 24–48 hours before waxing.
  • Disclose medical history, medications (especially retinoids, anticoagulants) and recent cosmetic procedures to your technician.

Technique & therapist practice

  • Experienced therapists use hard wax for intimate areas because it grips hair but not skin, reducing the chance of skin lifting.
  • Single-use spatulas, fresh gloves and clean linens minimise infection risk.
  • Technicians should use calm, professional communication to obtain clear consent before each pass.

Pain, comfort & intervals

  • Intimate waxing is often more painful than leg or arm waxing because of denser, coarser hair and sensitive skin.
  • Regular waxing can reduce pain over time as hair thins; typical repeat intervals are 4–6 weeks.
  • Topical analgesics can be used cautiously (follow product and technician guidance).

Risks & contraindications

  • All general waxing risks apply (see Waxing): redness, swelling, ingrown hairs, skin lifting and infection.
  • Avoid intimate waxing with active genital infections, open sores, recent childbirth (consult clinician), genital dermatological conditions, or if you are using topical retinoids.
  • Seek medical advice if you have concerns around scarring, keloid tendency or immunosuppression.

Aftercare

  • Cool compresses and soothing antiseptic gels (aloe vera, calendula) reduce inflammation.
  • Avoid hot baths, saunas, sexual intercourse and intense exercise for 24–48 hours to reduce friction and infection risk in the treated area.
  • Wear loose cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing for at least one day.
  • Start gentle exfoliation after 48–72 hours to lower the risk of ingrown hairs; treat persistent bumps per Ingrown Hair.

Consent & professionalism

  • Intimate waxing involves exposure and physical contact. Always ensure explicit consent, clear boundaries and the option to stop.
  • A professional salon will offer privacy, a chaperone if requested and explain the procedure before starting.

Writing tips

  • Intimate waxing scenes can show vulnerability, trust and bodily autonomy. Use sensory detail (temperature, tack, tension) and the character's internal reaction to emphasise tone.
  • Avoid fetishising non-consensual elements—always make consent clear. Describe aftercare to normalise health and safety.

Example

"She lay back as the therapist worked with steady hands; the first pull made her wince, the second left a neat, hairless plane that felt impossibly light against the cotton of her panties."

See also