About Bikini Waxes

Bikini waxes are not a new grooming ritual for women. No longer reserved just for porn stars or Brazilian beauties, many women around the globe are setting appointments with salon waxing specialists to trim and remove the delicate hair located above and below the bikini line. From American to French bikini waxes there are a variety of international styles of hair grooming to satisfy women new to the waxing process and veteran hair-free bikini line devotees alike.

History

Ancient Egyptian and Greek women used beeswax and other sugary compounds to remove hair from their bodies. Due to the widespread appeal of the bikini swimsuit and changes in lingerie in the mid 1960s, women removed hair around the bikini line. According to Wikipedia, female hair removal is a standard of proper grooming and basic hygiene in Middle Eastern countries.

Significance

Many cultures have a specific viewpoint of hair appropriateness. Women more so than men, are encouraged through advertising and popular social customs to follow the current trends and standards of beauty. In the 20th century hair removal in the pubic region is popular now due to an increased value in attractiveness and sexuality among men and women.

Function

Bikini waxing is hair removal below the belly button and in the bikini area. A standard bikini wax incorporates the following steps: First the waxing area is cleaned and talcum powder is applied to the skin. Warm wax is then applied to the area. Thin strips of cloth are placed on top of the wax. As the wax cools, the strips are ripped away from the skin in a fast manner. Any stray hairs will be tweezed by the waxing technician. As a result, the hair is removed from the hair follicle.

Types

There are four types of bikini waxing: Full Bikini Wax (FBW), Brazilian, American and French. The Brazilian was popularized by the J Sisters in 1987. Brazilian and French waxing leaves only a strip of hair on the pubic region. The full bikini wax removes all hair from the bikini area and buttocks. The American wax, also known as the basic bikini wax, removes hair on the top of thighs, below the navel and above the bikini line.

Considerations

Bikini waxing is extremely painful due to the sensitive nature of the waxing area. Ingrown hairs and bumps may occur after a bikini wax. To avoid irritation during your first bikini wax, ask for a patch test to eliminate any allergic reactions to chemicals used in the waxing procedure. Avoid the sun or swimming for 24 hours after bikini waxing.
Bikini waxing is not a permanent hair removal technique. Most bikini waxes last between 2 to 4 weeks. Professional bikini waxing appointments range from 15 to 30 minutes. Before attempting to wax your bikini area at home, visit a licensed spa technician or esthetician for professional care and instructions. Bikini waxing is not recommended for people taking the prescription drug "Accutane" or "Retinol." Diabetics and eczema or psoriasis suffers should also refrain from bikini waxing.

Resources

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