How Long Does a Bikini Wax Last? Tips to Time Your Wax

Wedding prep includes making yourself feel as confident as possible, and for some people, that means hair removal. If you're trying to perfectly time a visit to the salon, you might wonder: How long does a bikini wax last? Getting a wax down there can be a little pricey (not to mention painful), so you want to make sure it's worth it. There's no point in spending time and energy on a bikini wax if the hair is going to be mostly grown back before a beach honeymoon or the big wedding night. We spoke with estheticians to find out how long will a bikini wax last so you can appropriately time your appointment—read on to find out.

In this article:

• How Long Does a Bikini Wax Last?
• What to Know About Timing Your Bikini Wax
• How to Extend Your Bikini Wax
• More Bikini Wax Timing FAQs

How Long Does a Bikini Wax Last?

If you're looking for lasting hair removal down there, a bikini wax can be a good option. While shaving merely cuts the hair off at the skin's surface, causing it to grow back in just a few days, waxing means the hair is removed from the root and will take longer to come back.

But just how long can you go between appointments? "A bikini wax will typically last four to six weeks depending on the density, thickness and skill of the tech," says Vicky Larsen, an esthetician of over 25 years based in San Diego, California.

While you can probably go at least a month between appointments, it's important to note that hair will start growing back in between sessions—it shouldn't be as noticeable as before, though.

How long does a Brazilian wax last?

Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, bikini wax and Brazilian wax aren't the same thing. "A bikini wax typically covers the area right outside the panty line and goes about ½-1 inch in from there," Larsen says. "A Brazilian wax will typically remove all hair from the pubic mound all the way to the back between the buttocks."

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Despite these differences, Larsen says they last about the same amount of time. A Brazilian wax should last between four to six weeks, depending on your hair type, thickness and the tech who does it.

How long does a sugar bikini wax last?

A sugar bikini wax uses a more natural sugar paste to remove hair at the bikini line (unlike the traditional wax used in a bikini wax) and is considered more gentle. Like a bikini wax and a Brazilian wax, a sugar bikini wax should last between four to six weeks. However, the hair may grow back a bit differently. "It can be very effective in hair removal and the hair can grow back thinner and slower due to the method of removal," Larsen says.

How long does a bikini wax last for first-timers?

If this is your first time getting a bikini wax, you might wonder if it will last as long as those who have been doing it for months or even years. The answer? It depends. "This varies from person to person depending on how much hair they have, how quickly it grows, etc.," says Emme Diane Burg, licensed esthetician and founder/CEO of Emme Diane.

That said, Diane Burg notes that results may not last quite as long for first-timers, saying, "The hair growth cycles aren't in sync yet." Since these results can be a bit more unpredictable, you may want to consider trying to get that first session in a few months before the big day.

What to Know About Timing Your Bikini Wax

If you want to perfectly time your bikini wax so that you don't have to worry about any stragglers or prickly hair growth during your wedding or the length of your honeymoon, there are some things to keep in mind. There are a few factors that can affect how long your bikini wax will last, and knowing what they are can give you a better idea of when to make your appointment.

First-Timers May Want to Start a Few Months Before the Wedding

If you've never gotten a bikini wax before, you may not want the first appointment to be right before your wedding since your hair may grow back faster. "As a general rule of thumb, I recommend starting three months ahead of time if you're a first-time waxer and then planning to have your second wax about four weeks after that," Diane Burg says.

Thick Hair May Grow Back Faster

Those who have thick, dense hair may find that they need appointments more often, and that's normal. Both Larsen and Diane Burg point out that thicker hair can grow back faster or require a little more time. Pay attention to and note how your hair grows back to figure out the best timing.

Staying on a Schedule Before the Wedding Is Helpful

Regular waxing for several months leading up to the wedding can lead to the best results. "Consistency and timing are big factors when it comes to waxing," Diane Burg says. "This is because the hair grows in three cycles—anagen (growing), catagen (resting) and telogen (shedding). So the idea is that regular waxing can help sync these cycles so more of our hair is in the same phase, which leads to longer-lasting results." Go every four to six weeks, depending on how your hair grows back, for several months leading up to your wedding.

Your Esthetician Matters

As Larsen notes, the experience and ability of the tech performing your wax matters. Some estheticians may not remove every bit of hair, while others will be a little more detailed. Go to someone you trust who has good experience and reviews—this might mean spending a bit more, but it could be worth it.

How to Extend Your Bikini Wax

While there's no way to completely prevent your hair from growing back (aside from a different semi-permanent hair removal option, like laser hair removal), there are a few ways to extend the life of your bikini wax.

Staying on a consistent and regular waxing schedule is one way to make your bikini wax last. As Diane Burg mentioned, syncing up your hair growth cycles is helpful in ensuring hair doesn't grow back as quickly. You should also resist the temptation to shave any stragglers left behind. "The hairs may not be ready to be removed at your next appointment, therefore throwing off your schedule," Larsen warns.

Keep ingrown hairs at bay by dry brushing and exfoliating to help unfurl trapped hairs so they can be removed at your next appointment, Larsen recommends. You can also use a solution to serum to try to prevent ingrown hairs if you're prone to them, Diane Burg says. She recommends a post-wax treatment, like PFB Vanish Razor Bump.

More Bikini Wax Timing FAQs

Still have lingering questions about bikini wax timing? Read on for answers to frequently asked questions.

How long does a bruise from a bikini wax last?

Larsen notes that while bruising from a bikini wax is rare, it can last about a few days to a week. "If you're seeing a skilled technician, you shouldn't experience bruising," Diane Burg says.

How long does a rash from a bikini wax last?

Both rashes, similar to razor bumps, or folliculitis (irritation of the hair follicles) can be common after a wax down there and can also last a few days to a week. "These are usually mild, but using a post-wax product or applying a bit of cortisone cream can help calm things down quickly," Diane Burg says.