A Brazilian wax, the hair removal treatment that leaves you smooth and hairless below the waist, typically costs between $45 and $85 in the United States. This includes your bikini area, between your thighs, and around your butt, offering a comprehensive clean.
Brazilian waxes strike a balance between cost and longevity. While razors and epilators are cheaper upfront, hair regrows quickly, and skin irritation is common. Laser hair removal offers longer-lasting results but comes with a higher price tag and potential risks. Brazilian waxes provide a middle ground.
If a Brazilian wax seems like the right choice for your budget and hair removal needs, keep reading to learn more about the costs involved and how to get the most from your next appointment.
Factors Influencing the Cost of a Brazilian Wax
Several factors can influence the price you pay for a Brazilian wax, including the salon type, location, esthetician’s expertise, and pricing structure.
- Type of Salon: Salons specializing in waxing may have different pricing than those offering a wide range of services.
- Location: Cost of living and competition within your area affect pricing.
- Materials and Technique: Proprietary waxes or specialized techniques requiring more supplies can increase costs.
- Esthetician’s Skill Level: Experienced estheticians often charge more for their expertise.
- Designs: Intricate designs like hearts or diamonds require more skill and time, increasing the price.
- Pricing Structure: Some salons may charge differently for men’s services due to the specialized nature of the treatment.
Salons have varying pricing policies. Brazilian waxes for men may be more expensive at some salons due to the specialized service required. If your session demands more time and supplies, you can expect to pay extra. Your first wax will likely require more materials than subsequent appointments.
Average Brazilian Wax Prices by State
The average cost of a Brazilian wax in the U.S. is approximately $58. Colorado has the highest average price at $84, while Virginia offers the most affordable waxes at around $44. Here’s a breakdown of average costs by state:
| State | Average appointment cost |
|---|---|
| AK | $60 |
| AL | $59 |
| AR | $68 |
| AZ | $48 |
| CA | $58 |
| CO | $84 |
| CT | $48 |
| DC | $73 |
| DE | $48 |
| FL | $55 |
| GA | $48 |
| HI | $65 |
| IA | $59 |
| ID | $57 |
| IL | $52 |
| IN | $54 |
| KS | $58 |
| KY | $56 |
| LA | $56 |
| MA | $52 |
| MD | $61 |
| MI | $57 |
| MN | $59 |
| MO | $53 |
| MS | $57 |
| MT | $65 |
| NC | $59 |
| ND | $77 |
| NE | $62 |
| NJ | $62 |
| NM | $46 |
| NV | $55 |
| NY | $56 |
| OH | $54 |
| OK | $55 |
| OR | $62 |
| PA | $53 |
| RI | $61 |
| SC | $50 |
| TN | $51 |
| TX | $59 |
| UT | $56 |
| VA | $44 |
| VT | $60 |
| WA | $65 |
| WI | $82 |
Data not available for all states.
What Areas Does a Brazilian Wax Cover?
A Brazilian wax removes hair from the groin area, the external parts of your pubic area, the area between your thighs, and up to your butt. This eliminates hair above and to the sides of the groin as well.
You can also choose to leave some hair in the front in a landing strip or triangle shape. More intricate designs, such as hearts or diamonds, may require a skilled esthetician. Discuss specific requests when booking your appointment.
During your appointment, you can expect a consultation, cleansing and pre-wax treatments, the waxing itself, cleanup, and application of soothing creams or gels.
Understanding the Pain Factor
The pain associated with a Brazilian wax varies depending on individual pain tolerance. Pulling hair from the root can be painful, especially in the sensitive bikini area. Fear or anticipation can exacerbate the experience, and waxing close to your menstrual cycle can also increase sensitivity.
Choosing an experienced esthetician is crucial for minimizing discomfort and pain. Looking beyond just the price when planning your next appointment is essential for a comfortable experience.
Optimizing Your Brazilian Wax Session
To maximize your session, determine if you’re a good candidate, contact your esthetician beforehand for preparation tips, communicate during the appointment, and follow aftercare instructions. Consider the following before, during, and after your appointment.
Pre-Appointment Checklist
Preparation is vital for optimal results and safety, helping you avoid surprises at the salon.
- Consult your doctor if you’re taking medications, undergoing procedures, or have conditions that may increase sensitivity to wax (e.g., antibiotics, chemotherapy, pregnancy).
- List medications and recent procedures to share with your esthetician.
- Inquire about esthetician’s preferences, regarding menstruation, piercings, and lotion/oil application.
- Stop removing hair weeks before to ensure sufficient length (at least a quarter inch).
- Gently exfoliate with water and a washcloth to prevent ingrown hairs.
During the Waxing Session
Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Your esthetician can address concerns and clarify any uncertainties.
- Communicate discomfort or concerns so your esthetician can adjust their technique and provide comfort.
- Ask for aftercare tips and recommendations for your next appointment.
Post-Wax Care
Following these steps after your appointment will help you maintain smoothness and effectiveness, while preventing irritation, infection, or discomfort.
- Avoid shaving as it can make hair coarser and uneven, negating the benefits of waxing.
- Avoid friction-causing activities like tanning beds, sex, intense workouts, and touching the waxed area for a few days.
- Exfoliate a few days after to prevent ingrown hairs.
Ideal Hair Length for a Brazilian Wax
Hair should be at least a quarter inch long for effective waxing, requiring a few weeks of growth. If it’s longer, consult your esthetician, as some prefer to trim it themselves. This ensures the hair is not cut too short.
How Long Does a Brazilian Wax Last?
Brazilian waxes typically last three to four weeks, depending on individual hair growth rates. Regular waxing can lead to thinner, softer hair due to root removal. Maintaining a consistent waxing schedule helps sustain results.
Is a Brazilian Wax Worth the Investment?
A Brazilian wax is worth it if you’re seeking an affordable hair removal method with long-lasting results. While more expensive than razors or creams, you gain weeks of hair-free skin. Waxing also exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells for smoother skin.
To maximize benefits, maintain a regular waxing routine. Switching back to shaving can undo the progress achieved with waxing. Other treatments may be more suitable depending on your preferences and budget.
Brazilian Wax vs. Bikini Wax
A bikini wax focuses on hair removal around the bikini area.
- Bikini line wax removes hair that would be visible outside of a bikini bottom, including the area between the belly button and the top of the bikini line.
- Full bikini wax removes hair in the same areas as a bikini line wax, plus hair within the bikini area.
Bikini waxes are ideal if you only want to remove hair from those specific areas and are generally less expensive than Brazilian waxes, typically ranging from $29 to $59. Some consider bikini waxes a stepping stone to Brazilian waxes, while others prefer to start directly with a Brazilian wax. The best choice between a bikini and Brazilian wax is ultimately a personal decision.
Waxing vs. Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal uses lasers to vaporize hair and damage the follicle, resulting in hair reduction that can last for months or even years. Hair regrowth is often finer and less noticeable.
Laser hair removal costs $389 on average in the U.S. Maintenance sessions may be needed depending on your skin and hair type.
Laser hair removal is a suitable option for long-term hair removal if it fits within your budget. However, it’s crucial to have this procedure performed by a board-certified dermatologist to minimize potential risks.
Can You DIY a Brazilian Wax?
DIY Brazilian wax kits are available, but require knowledge of waxing techniques. You need to know the appropriate wax type, timing, application, and removal procedures. At-home waxing demands patience and precision to avoid burns or injuries.
Given the training and experience of estheticians, professional waxing is recommended for the safest experience, especially for sensitive areas. It allows you to observe the process and ask questions.
Finding a Qualified Esthetician
A skilled esthetician maintains a clean workspace and prioritizes your comfort. Look for these indicators of a trustworthy professional:
- Provides consultation/questionnaire to confirm suitability.
- Maintains a clean workstation.
- Wears gloves during wax application.
- Avoids double-dipping the applicator into the wax.
- Uses sterilized applicators for each application.
- Accommodates requests to enhance comfort.
- Uses appropriate techniques to minimize pain.
Choosing a credible and experienced esthetician is crucial for waxing sensitive areas. Reviews and recommendations can provide insights into their professionalism, cleanliness, and communication.
Explore our community of estheticians to find someone in your area who specializes in Brazilian waxes.
