Introduction — From Mariam Ladhani
Founder, Shortpump Threading & Wax Studio · 18+ Years in Natural Hair Removal
When it comes to Brazilian waxing, most people aren’t nervous about the result—they’re nervous about everything leading up to it.
I’ve spent over 18 years helping people through their first (and fiftieth) Brazilian wax, and I’ve noticed one common thread in Richmond:
People are more anxious about the unknown than the wax itself.
This guide isn’t here to convince you to get waxed.
It’s here to remove the fear, ease the tension, and help you understand what it should feel like when a Brazilian wax is done with respect, hygiene, and thoughtful care.
Why I’m Writing This Guide
Everyone deserves a Brazilian wax that feels:
- Dignified
- Hygienic
- Process-driven
- Above all, comfortable and respectful
Unfortunately, that’s not always the case—and I see the aftermath often: ingrowns, lifted skin, rushed appointments, and clients who feel unheard.
So think of this as a founder’s checklist—from someone who’s seen every skin type, every hair type, and every nervous first-timer.
My goal?
To help you get your Brazilian wax done right, whether it’s with me or any trained professional in Richmond.
Understanding Your Brazilian Wax: Setting Expectations Clearly
A Brazilian wax removes hair from the entire intimate area—front, labia, and between the cheeks. Some clients keep a strip or triangle; others prefer a clean slate.
What matters most isn’t the style.
It’s how informed and comfortable you feel before your esthetician begins.
Before your appointment, you should already understand:
✔ what will be removed
✔ what positions you may be guided into
✔ how long it will take
✔ what products are being used
✔ what to expect afterward
If any of this feels unclear, pause—and ask.
An esthetician should never rush you through the most vulnerable service in the beauty world.
Your Fears Are Valid — Let’s Address Them Honestly
Over the years, clients have told me they fear:
1. Is it going to be unbearably painful?
Pain should be present—but brief, controlled, and manageable, especially with proper technique and skin support.
2. Will I feel awkward?
A good esthetician should remove awkwardness from the room before removing a single hair.
3. What if something goes wrong?
Skin lifting, burns, ingrowns, and irritation are real risks—when the wrong wax or technique is used.
With proper prep, quality wax, and hygiene, these issues become rare.
You deserve an intimate wax in Richmond, VA that protects your skin, not punishes it.
Before Your Appointment: The Steps That Make All the Difference
Think of pre-care as giving your esthetician a clean canvas to work with.
1. Gentle Exfoliation 48 Hours Before
Helps prevent ingrowns and allows wax to grip properly.
2. The Right Hair Length
About ¼ inch (a grain of rice).
Too short = wax can’t grip.
Too long = unnecessary discomfort.
3. What to Avoid
- Tanning or sunburn
- Tight clothing
- Excess caffeine
- Lotions or oils
- DIY trimming right before your appointment
Your skin should walk into the studio clean, calm, and ready.
During the Wax: What a Safe, Comfortable Service Should Look Like
Your esthetician should:
✔ Explain each step
Transparency reduces fear.
✔ Use clean, single-use tools
No double-dipping. Ever.
✔ Check your skin’s condition
Dry, irritated, or sensitized skin requires modified technique.
✔ Work systematically
Brazilian waxing is choreography, not randomness.
✔ Ask for feedback
Your comfort and boundaries matter.
If you feel rushed, dismissed, or confused—that is your cue to advocate for yourself.
Hard Wax, Soft Wax, Sugaring — Which One Is Right for You?
Hard Wax (my go-to for intimate areas)
- Grips hair, not skin
- Gentler for sensitive zones
- Less pulling sensation
Soft Wax
- Good for finer hair
- Removed with strips
- Can be harsher if not applied correctly
Sugaring
- Natural, gentle
- Excellent for sensitive skin
- Takes skill to master
The right wax isn’t about trend—it’s about your skin type and tolerance.
A Note on Brazilian Waxing for Women and Men — What Truly Matters
Over the years, I’ve learned that Brazilian wax isn’t a one-style-fits-all service.
Women and men both seek smoothness and comfort, but your skin, hair type, anatomy, and sensitivity patterns differ, which means your esthetician’s approach should differ too.
Below is a gentle, honest breakdown—so you know exactly what to factor in based on your gender.
Brazilian Waxing for Women
Women often worry about:
- pain during the labia portion
- ingrown hairs on the bikini line
- sensitivity around the time of their period
- the awkwardness of positioning
Here’s what truly matters:
1. Hormones Play a Big Role
You may feel more sensitive near your menstrual cycle. It’s not a contraindication—just something to mentally prepare for.
2. Curvature and Skin Elasticity Vary
Women’s skin around the bikini line and labia can be thinner or more elastic depending on age, pregnancies, hormonal changes, and even hydration levels.
A gentle wax that adheres to the hair—not the skin—is crucial.
3. Regrowth Patterns Are Different
Most women have multi-directional hair growth.
Your esthetician should wax in small, controlled sections—not large strips.
4. Ingrown-Prone Skin Needs Extra Care
Women, especially those who shave between waxes or wear tight clothing, often deal with recurring ingrowns.
Consistent exfoliation and hydration make a world of difference.
5. A Brazilian Should Never Feel Rushed
Precision matters more than speed.
A clean Brazilian requires time, technique, and patience—especially in sensitive areas.
Brazilian Waxing for Men (Manzilian)
For men, the concerns are often different:
- fear of pain on the shaft and scrotum
- thicker, coarser, denser hair
- sensitivity in the perineal area
- embarrassment or fear of judgment
Let’s break it down honestly:
1. Men Have Coarser, Stronger Hair
This means:
- Slightly more sensation on the first wax
- Dramatic improvement from the second wax onward
- The need for smaller, controlled waxing sections
Good technique = less pain.
2. The Scrotum Requires a Different Approach
The skin here is loose and delicate.
A trained esthetician will:
- Stretch the skin correctly
- Use the right wax temperature
- Work in small patches
- Never tug or pull blindly
This is where technique truly shows.
3. Heat Sensitivity Is Higher
Men often react strongly to wax that is even slightly too warm.
Temperature-controlled wax is essential.
4. Hygiene Protocols Must Be Extra Strict
Because of the anatomy, male Brazilian waxing requires:
- Fresh gloves
- Extra wipes
- More frequent sanitization
- Higher attention to detail
5. Communication Eases Everything
It’s normal to be nervous.
A professional knows how to guide positions comfortably and respectfully.
What to Factor In Based on Your Gender
Here’s a quick, founder-guided checklist:
✔ For Women
- Consider your cycle (you may be more sensitive).
- Multi-directional growth means a detailed technique is crucial.
- Ask what type of wax is being used on the labia.
- Avoid shaving in between sessions—this resets your progress.
- Wear breathable bottoms after your appointment.
✔ For Men
- Expect the first wax to feel more intense (coarse hair).
- Choose an esthetician trained in male brazilians—technique varies greatly.
- Comfort in positioning matters; speak up if something feels off.
- Exfoliation is your best friend for reducing ingrowns.
- Don’t apply gym powders, lotions, or sprays right before your appointment.
Aftercare: Where Most Problems Can Be Prevented
0–48 Hours After Wax
Avoid:
- Workouts
- Hot showers
- Pools
- Friction
- Sex
- Tight clothing
Calm your skin; don’t challenge it.
48 Hours Onward
- Start exfoliating 2–3 times a week.
- Hydrate daily.
- Never pick ingrowns—use serums or see your esthetician
Long-term comfort depends more on aftercare than the appointment itself.
Keeping Your Results Consistent
Most people stay smooth for 3–6 weeks.
The ideal rebook window: 4–6 weeks.
Regular waxing =
✔ finer regrowth
✔ fewer ingrowns
✔ less discomfort over time
✔ smoother finish
It’s about rhythm, not routine pressure.
A Final Note — From One Woman to Another
A Brazilian wax should never feel like something you “must endure.”
It should feel like a collaborative, respectful experience where you’re heard, cared for, and guided with precision.
Wherever you go in Richmond—choose a place that puts your comfort first, not speed.
And if you ever feel unsure, send your esthetician a message, ask questions, or pause the service.
- You are allowed to be informed.
- You are allowed to be comfortable.
- And you are absolutely allowed to expect better.
— Mariam Ladhani
Founder, Shortpump Threading & Wax Studio
18+ Years in Natural Hair Removal
Please feel free to talk to us 804 512 2835 in case of any queries or feedback. We deliver Brazilian wax for both men and women and customize the regime based on your needs and goals.
