The words “bikini wax“ automatically sends a shudder down our spines. But this hair removal treatment is how we avoid having a Miranda Brazilian Moment when Samantha calls her out for sunbathing with a “hairy bush.”

To get physically and mentally prepared for bikini waxing, here are some good tips to know:

What are the most common mistakes women make before a bikini wax?
Consuming alcohol thinking that it will ease the pain, but it tightens pores, which can lead to a painful waxing experience. Also, trimming hair too short before waxing because they think the hair is too long. Or shaving between waxing services, which reverses the benefits of waxing, including removing hair from the root and having silky smooth skin.

How can you reduce bikini waxing pain?
Be sure to hydrate and moisturize the skin before and between waxing. Drinking water and applying moisturizer on a daily basis is not only beneficial to your body leading up to a wax, but highly beneficial to your overall health.

How long should hair be “down there” to achieve the best bikini wax?
In order to achieve the best waxing results, make sure that your hair is grown out to about one-fourth of an inch. This is the ideal length for hair to be before waxing because it will allow the wax to better grip the hair and be released from the root, rather than just the hair above the skin being removed.

Can you get a bikini wax during your period?
I don’t suggest it. Also avoid waxing close to your menstrual cycle which can make the skin more sensitive.

What are some of the dos and don’ts pre- and post- bikini waxing?
Do: Exfoliate in between waxing to reduce the chance of ingrown hairs.
Do: Use sun protection when exposing your skin to the sun. It is especially important during the first 24 hours after waxing in order to avoid redness.
Do: Let your waxer know before your appointment if you have any allergies, health conditions, or are taking any medication, like Accutane, or if you are using any topical lotions or creams like AHAs or Retin-A, which are not compatible with waxing.
Don’t: Use numbing products or pain relief medicine, such as Advil, as it does not help.
Don’t: Drink alcohol or stimulants such as caffeine prior to waxing.