First Timer? What Is a Brazilian Wax, Really?
TL;DR: What Is a Brazilian Wax? Here’s the Quick Breakdown
A full Brazilian wax removes hair from the front, labia or scrotum, perineum, and bum crack—fully bare or with a shape, your choice.
Brazilian vs. bikini: bikini waxes clean up around the underwear line, while Brazilians go much further.
It can sting at first, but regular waxing leads to finer hair and less discomfort over time.
Prep by growing hair to ¼", avoiding lotion, and wearing loose clothes; aftercare matters for smooth results.
Ted D Bare offers expert Brazilian waxing in San Jose, known for quick, inclusive services (like the 7-minute Brazilian).
What is a Brazilian wax? Simply put, it’s one of the most thorough methods of hair removal available—clearing hair from the front, sides, back, and everything in between.
It’s not just about aesthetics. Many people choose Brazilian waxing for comfort, hygiene, or simply to feel more confident in their skin. Whether you’re someone who prefers a landing strip, wants it all gone, or isn’t quite sure yet, this guide breaks it all down.
Ted D Bare is a San Jose-based body waxing studio that’s been serving clients of all genders, body types, and comfort levels since 2006. Our services are fast, efficient, and inclusive—and yes, we coined the 7-minute Brazilian (you’ve probably seen it on TikTok).
If you're curious but nervous, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. Book your appointment here, or keep reading to see what you're signing up for!
What Is a Brazilian Wax?
A Quick Overview for the Wax-Curious
Wondering what is a full Brazilian wax? Let’s get straight to it: a Brazilian wax removes most or all pubic hair from the front of your bikini area, down through the labia or scrotum, around the perineum, and through the bum crack. You can go completely bare or leave a shape in the front—your call. The goal is smooth skin in places where razors struggle and stubble stings.
You might also see terms like what is a Brazilian bikini wax or what is a half Brazilian bikini wax—these aren’t universally standardized, but they’re often used by studios to describe partial styles. For example, a half Brazilian might remove hair from the front but skip the labia and bum crack. A Brazilian bikini wax might cover the front and labia but leave the bum crack—or vice versa. Sometimes, it’s just a gentler way to describe a Brazilian-style wax with more modest coverage. At Ted D Bare, we’re happy to walk you through your options and tailor the service to your comfort level.
Brazilian Wax vs Bikini Wax: What’s the Difference?
Bikini Wax Basics
A lot of folks ask, what is the difference between a bikini and Brazilian wax? Let’s clear it up. A bikini wax focuses on removing hair around the edges of your underwear line—typically just the top and sides. A bikini full goes a little deeper into the sides or higher up front, but it stops short of the labia or scrotum.
Who Might Prefer One Over the Other
Some clients want a tidy look without going totally bare—bikini waxing works well for that. Others prefer the smoothness and longer-lasting feel of a Brazilian. It’s all about lifestyle and comfort. No matter which service you choose, Ted D Bare’s premium brazilian and bikini waxing services ensure a safe, hygienic, and quick experience.
What Is a Brazilian Wax for a Man?
Manzilian, Boyzilian, Brozilian
The male Brazilian—known colloquially as a Manzilian, Boyzilian, or Brozilian—removes hair from the groin, shaft, scrotum, perineum, and bum crack. It’s exactly like the female version, minus the anatomy. The name might be different, but the process is just as effective.
Why More Men Are Booking This Service
More men are realizing the benefits of smooth skin—less sweat, fewer odors, and improved comfort. There’s also something empowering about body maintenance done your way. And when done professionally, Brazilian waxing delivers results shaving can’t compete with. Ted D Bare’s male waxing services are among the most popular in San Jose for a reason.
What to Expect at Your First Brazilian Wax
You’ll be greeted, brought into a clean room, and asked a few quick questions. Then, you’ll undress from the waist down and lie on a treatment table. Your esthetician will explain each step and check in with you throughout. Expect a mix of wax application, removal, and tweezing for strays.
The Ted D Bare Approach (Fast, Funny, and Freakishly Efficient)
We’re fast. Like, 7-minute-Brazilian fast. But only because we’re that efficient. At Ted D Bare, appointments start on time, run like clockwork, and wrap before you’ve had time to overthink anything. We’ll humanize an awkward experience with humor—and yes, you’ll probably laugh mid-wax (even if you don’t want to). You might not love the process, but you’ll walk out feeling better than when you walked in!
Do You Need to Be Naked?
Short answer: yes. You’ll need to undress from the waist down for a Brazilian wax—there’s really no way around it. But don’t let that freak you out. This isn’t our first rodeo (not even our thousandth), and we keep things efficient and as chill as humanly possible. You’re in good hands—and out the door in minutes.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Hair Length Guidelines (Think: Rice Grain, Not Stubble)
Hair should be at least a half inch long—about the length of a grain of rice. If it’s too short, the wax won’t grip properly. If it’s too long, your esthetician may need to trim it for you. Avoid shaving beforehand—it resets the growth cycle and makes waxing more painful (and sometimes not doable at all).
Skip the Lotion, Not the Shower
Clean, dry skin makes all the difference. A quick shower before your appointment keeps things fresh (especially since waxing gets up close and personal), but skip the lotions, oils, or heavy creams afterward. They can create a barrier that prevents the wax from gripping properly, making your results less effective.
Bring Loose Pants. Trust Us.
You’ll thank yourself when you’re walking out. Tight pants or synthetic fabrics can irritate freshly waxed skin. Soft, breathable clothing helps prevent post-wax redness and discomfort.
Does a Brazilian Wax Hurt? Here’s the Real Talk
The First Time vs The Third
Yes, a Brazilian wax can sting the first time—especially in sensitive areas like the labia or bum crack. Most people describe it as a quick, sharp pull—kind of like ripping off a really sticky bandage on sunburned skin—but over in a flash. It might make your eyes water, but the sting fades within seconds. By your third session, it usually feels much more tolerable. That’s because regular waxing leads to finer, sparser hair, which means less resistance and less pain with each strip. Plus, once you know what to expect, the nerves ease up too. Most clients say they’re surprised by how fast it’s over—and how smooth the results are.
Tips to Make It Easier
Take ibuprofen about 30 minutes beforehand to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Skip the caffeine—it can make you more sensitive. Breathe deeply, and try not to come in feeling rushed or stressed. At Ted D Bare, we’ll keep you talking and laughing through the sting—so it’s over before your brain catches up!
Waxing Aftercare: What To Do After a Brazilian Wax
The First 24 Hours
Avoid hot showers, intense workouts, tight clothing, sex, and anything else that causes friction or sweat. Redness or sensitivity is totally normal and usually fades within a day.
Preventing Ingrowns with Agent 88
Use our Agent 88 Ingrown Serum starting 48 hours after your wax. It helps calm inflammation and keeps hair from curling back under the skin. Pair it with light exfoliation and hydration.
When to Start Exfoliating Again
Wait at least 48 hours before using a gentle exfoliator like our 50 Grit Towel. From there, exfoliating 2–3 times a week can help prevent bumps and keep skin smooth between waxes.
What is a Brazilian Wax? FAQ
Can I get waxed if I’m pregnant or on my period?
Yes, but you might be more sensitive. If menstruating, wear a tampon or menstrual cup. Always let your esthetician know—they’ll make sure you’re comfortable.
Can I get waxed if I’m taking medication like Accutane or Retin-A?
No waxing if you’re currently on Accutane or have taken it within the past 6 months. Stop using retinoids at least 7 days before and after waxing.
How long should my hair be before waxing?
½ inch is perfect. That’s about 3–4 weeks of growth for most people.
Can I work out after a Brazilian wax?
It’s best to wait 24 hours to avoid irritation and sweat-related bumps.
Do you offer Brazilian waxing for all genders and body types?
Yes. Always. At Ted D Bare, all bodies are welcome, and everyone gets the same expert treatment.
Can I get waxed if I have tattoos or piercings?
Yes-ish. Waxing wont damage your ink and it may even make it look brighter since waxing also exfoliates the superficial layer of dead skin. If you have piercings, we can usually work around them carefully. But if you have A LOT of piercings in the same area that you'd want to have waxed, we might need you to remove them.
Do Brazilian waxes get easier over time?
Absolutely. Regular waxing weakens the follicle, making hair finer and easier to remove.
What is included in a Brazilian wax at Ted D Bare?
Everything from the front to the back: pubic mound, labia/scrotum, perineum, and bum crack. You choose what stays and what goes.
Thinking About Your First Brazilian Waxing Appointment in San Jose?
Now that you know what to expect—from hair length to aftercare—you’re already ahead of the game. Whether you’re still on the fence or just needed a little reassurance, we hope this guide helped demystify the experience and ease some nerves.
Still curious about our approach or what makes a Brazilian feel a little less intimidating? Explore our FAQs or drop us a line—we’re always happy to chat!