What Is the Difference Between a Bikini Wax and a Brazilian Wax?

The difference is how much area is waxed. A bikini wax removes the hair that would show outside a swimsuit, along the sides and upper edge, while a Brazilian wax removes hair from the front, sides and back of the whole area. With a Brazilian, the shape you keep is your choice, from everything off to a small strip.

Key takeaways

• Bikini wax: a tidy swimsuit line, about 30 minutes.
• Brazilian wax: front, sides and back, about 30 to 45 minutes.
• You can switch between the two at any visit.

What Area Does a Bikini Wax Cover?

A bikini wax tidies the edges. It removes hair along the swimsuit line, usually at the sides and sometimes across the upper edge, so nothing shows outside your swimsuit or underwear.

The center stays as it is. It is a good choice for a clean, neat look with less change. At SALT, a bikini wax takes about 30 minutes.

What Area Does a Brazilian Wax Cover?

A Brazilian wax removes hair from the front, the sides and the back of the area. How much comes off is up to you.

Some people take everything off. Others keep a small strip or a triangle. Our esthetician talks through the options with you first, so you get what you asked for and nothing you did not. A Brazilian takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Which Wax Suits You?

A Bikini Wax Suits You If

• You want a neat line for swimwear or underwear and nothing more.
• It is your first wax and you want to start with less.
• You like your hair as it is and only want the edges cleaned up.

A Brazilian Wax Suits You If

• You want hair removed from the whole area.
• You like a smooth feeling between visits.
• You have a trip, an event or a season where you want the most coverage.

You do not have to pick one forever. You can start with a bikini wax and move to a Brazilian when you feel ready.

What Shapes Can You Ask For?

You do not need technical names. Describe what you want to keep and we will match it.

Common choices are everything off for a fully smooth result, a small strip down the center, or a small triangle at the front. Some people keep their hair and simply want it shaped with a clean outline.

If you are not sure, start with less. It is always possible to take more off at your next visit.

What Should You Share Before the Wax Starts?

• The shape you want, or what you want to keep.
• Whether it is your first wax.
• Any sensitive skin or past reactions to wax or products.
• Skin care you use that could make skin more sensitive.
• Anything that feels uncomfortable, at any point.

The more we know, the better we can tailor the wax. You are in control of the appointment.

Does One Feel More Intense?

Usually the Brazilian, since it covers more skin and more sensitive areas. A bikini wax covers less, so it can feel easier.

Comfort still depends on the person, the day and how relaxed you are. We use a gentle wax made for sensitive skin, and our esthetician checks in as she goes.

How Do You Prep for Either Service?

Preparation is the same for both. Let your hair grow to about a quarter inch, as our article on how long hair needs to be before a wax explains, and skip shaving in the weeks before.

Arrive with clean, dry skin and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Afterward, read how to stop ingrown hairs after waxing for aftercare.

How Do You Time a Wax Before a Trip?

Book a few days ahead so your skin has time to settle. A bikini wax suits a neat swimsuit line, and a Brazilian suits guests who want a smoother result.

Tell us your plans when you book and we will suggest the right service and timing.

How Does Upkeep Compare?

A Brazilian covers a larger area, so regrowth is more noticeable, and a regular rhythm keeps you smooth. A bikini wax is a lighter commitment, since the center stays as it is.

Hair grows back at its own pace with both. Your esthetician can help you choose a rhythm, and you can always change your service next time.

Where Can You Learn More About the Brazilian?

Our Brazilian waxing page covers the whole appointment, from prep to aftercare, and has the service details.

You can also meet our esthetician and the rest of the salon on our team page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Switch Between a Bikini and a Brazilian Wax?

Yes. You can choose whichever you prefer at each visit.

Does a Brazilian Mean Everything Comes Off?

Not unless you want it to. People use different terms, so describe what you want and we will confirm it before we start.

Which One Grows Back Faster?

Neither. Hair regrows on its own schedule, so it depends on your hair more than the service.

Can I Change the Shape Mid-Appointment?

Yes. Tell us and we will adjust. You are in control.

Can I Add Underarm or Leg Waxing to the Same Visit?

Yes. Tell us when you book so we can set aside enough time.

Book Your Wax

Not sure which to choose? Book online or call (224) 788-8028 and we will walk you through the options. Bikini and Brazilian waxes are both listed under Waxing on our Service Menu.