- This type of wax was introduced to North America in the late 1980s by seven Brazilian-born sisters, who started a Manhattan salon called J. Sisters. The origin of the Brazilian wax is closely related to the thong, also created in Brazil. The thong shows more skin, and in order to avoid unseemly pubic hair, a more thorough wax was necessary. Since its debut in Manhattan 20 years ago, the Brazilian wax has become very fashionable among celebrities and consequently, is now a mainstream beauty procedure.
- The procedure costs approximately $50 and is performed in a private room at a salon. The technician will require a client to completely disrobe, including underwear. The salon may provide paper thongs for added privacy, although this is unlikely. The technician may scissor cut longer hairs, so as to allow wax direct contact with the hair follicle, which is approximately 1/4 inch long. The technician will then apply warm wax to the bikini area with a wooden strip. After allowing the wax to harden, the technician will apply a cloth strip to the wax, pat down, and quickly pull the strip away from the normal direction of the hair. The wax used is usually natural beeswax and tall oil. This process is repeated until all unwanted hair is removed, except for the landing strip. Any hair that was not removed in the waxing process is then tweezed manually. After all hair is removed, soothing lotion is applied to the general area.
- A Brazilian wax takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes to perform. Wax is left on the area for approximately 10 to 15 seconds. The unwanted hair is removed in quick motions. The Brazilian wax lasts three to four weeks, and thus requires monthly maintenance.
- The Brazilian wax is the most painful form of waxing, because of its intimate location. This wax is considered by many to be unnatural, because it denotes an underage appearance. The most common reaction after waxing is itching, as the new hair grows. There is also a danger in getting in-grown hair. Oftentimes, friction in the bikini area is undesirable and uncomfortable due to the newly exposed skin. People with diabetes or circulatory problems are urged not to get Brazilian waxes due to the possible introduction of infection.
- Waxing has been around for many centuries, and ancient women in the desert areas received waxes as a way to stay cool. Brazilian wax is considered hygienic because it removes hair that may be harboring harmful bacteria. Brazilian wax is also very attractive to men, and so many women endure the pain.
