A bikini wax removes hair outside the swimsuit line, while a Brazilian wax removes most or all hair from the front and back.
Bikini wax
Removes hair outside the swimsuit line, along the sides.
Brazilian wax
Removes nearly all hair from the front, back and between. A strip may be left (landing strip).
Pain
Brazilian is more painful.
Cost
Bikini $30 to $60. Brazilian $50 to $90.
Healing
Hair regrows in 3 to 6 weeks.
Tips
Avoid when menstruating, and let the hair grow to a quarter inch.
Risks
Ingrown hairs, irritation and infection.
Area covered and healing
A bikini wax removes hair along the bikini line, outside what a swimsuit covers. A Brazilian wax removes most or all hair from the front and back, sometimes leaving a small strip. The difference is the coverage, which also means a Brazilian takes longer, typically 30 to 45 minutes.
- Prices in US salons range about 40 to 80 USD for bikini and 60 to 100 USD for Brazilian.
- Hair needs to be about 1/4 inch (6 mm) long for waxing, about two to three weeks of growth.
- Results last about 3 to 6 weeks.
- Redness and bumps can last up to 48 hours.
Risks and aftercare
Risks include ingrown hairs, burns from hot wax, folliculitis and, rarely, infection. Avoid hot baths, tight clothes, sun and exfoliation scrubs for a day or two. Skip waxing if you use retinoids or isotretinoin, have sunburn, or have skin conditions in the area. Choose a licensed esthetician who uses fresh applicators for each application, with no double-dipping.
Area covered and healing
A bikini wax removes hair outside the bikini line, while a Brazilian removes most or all hair from the front and back. Hair regrows in 3 to 6 weeks, and hair should be at least about 1/4 inch long. Redness lasts hours to a day.
Risks and aftercare
Risks include burns, ingrown hairs, folliculitis and infection. Choose a licensed esthetician and clean tools. Avoid heat, sex and tight clothing for 24 hours. Do not wax over irritated skin or after retinoid use.
Procedure details
A bikini wax removes hair outside the line of underwear, while a Brazilian removes nearly all hair including the back. Hard wax adheres to hair and not skin, and is better for sensitive areas. Hair should be about a quarter inch long. Prices range from 30 to 80 USD for bikini and 50 to 100 USD for Brazilian.
Risks and preparation
Avoid waxing during your period if tender, and 24 hours before skip exfoliating. Avoid retinoids, antibiotics like isotretinoin and sunburn. Complications include folliculitis, burns, ingrown hairs, molluscum spread and infection. Choose clean, licensed salons that do not double dip. Wear loose cotton clothing after, and avoid hot baths for 24 hours.
Based on data from the American Academy of Dermatology and state cosmetology boards
