Styles of Waxing

Waxing generally refers to the removal of hair from the body by a number of similar methods. While mainly associated with women, the practice is by men more frequently as well. Waxing is an effective method of removing large amounts of hair at one time. In this method wax is warmed to allow it to be spread easily over the skin in the direction of hair growth. The hair becomes embedded in the wax, which cools and firms up grasping the hair. The wax is then quickly pulled off in the opposite direction of the hair growth, pulling the hairs out of the follicles. Cold waxes are available usually attached to strips, which are patted onto the skin. Wax that is still left on the skin must be peeled or scratched off. Caution must be used when heating wax so as not to burn the skin.

Sugar waxing is a popular form of hair removal that works in the same way traditional waxing does. A thick sugary substance similar to caramel is spread on the skin in the direction of hair growth. The hair becomes embedded in the caramel. A cloth or paper strip is patted onto the caramel and then pulled off quickly in the opposite direction of the hair growth, pulling the hairs out of the follicles. The advantage of this method over traditional waxing is the clean up. The sugar substance is water-soluble and can be removed easier than wax by rinsing with water.

The benefits of waxing include: lack of razor burn and soft hair regrowth. The disadvantages are also similar, though since it is performed on the most sensitive region of the body, the pain can be more acute.

While some types of waxing may safely be done on oneself, this type cannot. It is recommended that one get a licensed cosmetologist or esthetician to perform this procedure. Our site lists a number of professional waxing salons in your area that should be able to meet all of your waxing needs.

	Basic This styles involves the removal of hair around the top and sides of the bikini line. Some have further excess hair inside the legs on the thighs removed as well. The procedure was made common as the wearing of bikinis became popular.
	Brazilian (aka Landing Strip, Hitler's Moustache, Hollywood) The technique is named for Brazil, the country in which it originated. It was first used for women wanting to wear the then-new thong bikinis. This style calls for the complete removal of hair adjacent to the anus, perineum and vulva (labia majora and mons pubis). It can be thought of as an extreme form of bikini waxing. Most forms of Brazilian waxing leave a small line of pubic hair (landing strip) above the vulva. Many women often opt for a Brazilian bikini wax because it produces clean, long lasting results. Many women combine with removal of hair around the anus and buttocks for the full effect. Men will often leave a triangle-shaped patch above the penis unshaved (since this area can be exceptionally sensitive to irritation) and will sometimes also leave the hair surrounding the anus intact (while removing that found on the buttocks).
	Arrow or Triangle A little more than the basic, leaving an arrow pointing to the good bits. Similar to the landing strip.
	Heart Many people experiment with fun shapes such as a heart. Your imagination is your only limit!
	Full (aka Brazilian XXXX, Full Monty) Taking the Brazilian to the next step, many have all the hair removed from the entire area, creating a completely clean and smooth look.