Should You Trim Your Hair Before a Bikini Wax? What to Know Before You Get Your First Wax

Co-authored by Mohiba Tareen, MD and Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA

Last Updated: May 31, 2022 References

Things can get a bit hairy before a bikini wax, but don’t trim your hair just yet. Before you wax, you need enough hair growth for the wax to grip. You might be feeling a bit anxious about how to prepare for your bikini wax, especially if this is your first time. Fortunately, we have all the answers to your questions about trimming hair before a bikini wax.

Question 1 of 8:

Should you shave before waxing?

No, shaving will make your hair too short for waxing. Skip shaving for at least 2 to 3 weeks before your bikini wax, depending on how fast your hair grows. It’s better to let your hair grow longer and then trim it because hair that’s too short is hard for the wax to grip.^{[1]
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- If you’re going to a salon, make the appointment ahead of time so you know when to stop shaving.

Question 2 of 8:

Can pubic hair be too long for a bikini wax?

Yes, anything longer than ³⁄₄ in (1.9 cm) is too long for waxing. Use a ruler to measure your hair if you’re worried it’s too long. If it is, no worries. Just trim your hair before your waxing session.^{[2]
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American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists
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- Technically, your esthetician may be able to wax longer hair. However, this can be more painful.

Question 3 of 8:

What’s the ideal hair length for bikini waxing?

It's best for hair to be ¹⁄₄ to ³⁄₄ in (0.64 to 1.91 cm) long. This is the ideal length for getting a wax with minimal discomfort. Keep a ruler handy so that you can check the length of the hairs. Take your time so you can be precise.^{[3]
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American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists
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- If you’re trimming your hair the same day you plan to wax, leave the hairs closer to ³⁄₄ in (1.9 cm) so you don’t risk cutting them too short.

Question 4 of 8:

How do you trim hair before a bikini wax?

Use a small pair of scissors to trim your hair to ³⁄₄ in (1.9 cm). Grab a pair of safety scissors or mustache scissors because they’re small enough to maneuver around your pubic area. Sit or stand in front of a mirror, then carefully trim your hair. Go slowly so that you don’t accidentally cut yourself.^{[4]
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American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists
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- It’s best to use smaller scissors because you’ll be less likely to injure yourself.
- Cut just a few hairs at a time so you can make sure you’re not trimming them too short.

Question 5 of 8:

How do I prepare for my first bikini wax?

1
Wash and dry your bikini area before your appointment. Sweat, oil, and dirt can make it hard for the wax to stick to your skin. If you can, shower shortly before your wax.^{[5]
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Expert Source

Mohiba Tareen, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist
Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.} However, it’s also okay to wipe yourself down with a cleansing wipe.^{[6]
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- Some salons give you a cleansing wipe to use when you get to your appointment if you want one.
- Try not to stress out too much about the “cleanliness” of your pubic area when getting a professional wax. Your esthetician is used to doing bikini waxes.
2
Skip lotions, powders, and other personal care products. Unfortunately, these products can prevent the wax from sticking. Don’t apply anything to your pubic area before waxing. If you forget, wash the area or use a cleansing cloth to wipe it clean.^{[7]
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- It’s okay to use a soap or cleanser before you wax. Just don’t use a product that stays on your skin, like lotion.^{[8]
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  Expert Source
  
  Mohiba Tareen, MD
  Board Certified Dermatologist
  Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.}
3
Wear loose, comfy bottoms to your waxing appointment. You’re probably going to experience some temporary discomfort during and immediately after waxing. Don’t worry because you’ll feel better soon! In the meantime, wear bottoms that won’t be too tight on your skin and won’t cause friction.^{[9]
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- For example, you might wear sweatpants or a flowy skirt.

Question 6 of 8:

How long does a bikini wax last?

Waxing results last for 3 to 4 weeks. It all depends on how fast your hair grows and how long you’ve been waxing. If you continue to wax regularly, your hair will eventually grow back thinner and finer, so your results may last longer. If you’re seeing a professional, talk to your esthetician to see when they recommend scheduling another waxing appointment.^{[10]
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Cleveland Clinic
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- Remember, you’ll need to let your hair grow a bit before waxing again.

Question 7 of 8:

Can you trim hair between waxes?

Yes, you can trim between waxes. It’s totally normal for your hair to grow back at different speeds, especially if you’ve just started waxing. If this bothers you, use safety scissors to trim your hairs so they’re even. Just don’t trim them too short if you’re planning to wax again soon.^{[11]
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- You don’t really need to trim your hairs if they aren’t bothering you.

Question 8 of 8:

When should you avoid waxing?

1
Don’t wax around the time of your period. You can technically still wax during this time, but it’s not a good idea. You’re more sensitive to pain just before, during, and right after your period. Schedule your wax in the middle of your menstrual cycle so you’ll experience less discomfort.^{[12]
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- Most salons will still let you get a bikini wax while on your period if that’s the best time for you. Just check with your salon ahead of time and wear a fresh tampon or menstrual cup.
2
Avoid waxing damaged or irritated skin.^{[13]
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Expert Source

Mohiba Tareen, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist
Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.} Getting a bikini wax usually causes discomfort, but it’s typically not too painful. However, waxing damaged or irritated skin can really hurt and may cause additional harm to your skin. Wait until your skin heals before you wax.^{[14]
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- This includes things like sunburn.
3
Don’t wax if you’re using a medication that thins your skin. The wax is going to tear off the top layer of your skin along with your hair. While this is usually no big deal, thin skin tears more easily. Skip the wax if you’re currently using the following medications:^{[15]
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American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists
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- An antibiotic.
- Topical tretinoin (retinoic acid) for acne.
- Isotretinoin, an acne treatment, which stays in your system for up to 6 months.

Warnings

Don’t workout or have sex for 24 hours after a bikini wax because it can cause discomfort. Give your skin time to rest and heal.^{[17]
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Waxing can burn your skin if it’s too hot.^{[18]
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