The method of using a shaving stick and a shampoo or mousse to shave off body hair is undoubtedly one of the longest-standing hair-removal techniques, but times are changing, and waxes are now taking centre stage.
One type in particular, the Hollywood wax, has become increasingly popular among women who want a clean, smooth finish that lasts much longer than a traditional shave.
If you’ve ever been curious about what exactly a Hollywood wax involves, how it’s done, and whether it’s right for you, this guide contains everything you need to know.
What Is a Hollywood Wax?
A Hollywood wax is the most thorough style of intimate waxing. It removes all the hair from the pubic region, from the bikini line to the labia, the mons pubis, and right down to the perineum and bum area. In simple terms: nothing is left behind.
It is sometimes confused with a Brazilian wax, but there’s a major difference. With a Brazilian wax, you usually have the option to leave a strip or triangle at the front. With a Hollywood wax, everything goes, and the aftermath is smooth, clean, and hair-free across the entire intimate area.
People choose it for different reasons, like long-lasting smoothness, comfort, aesthetics, or simply personal preference. Whatever the reason, it’s a completely valid and increasingly common grooming choice.
How Is a Hollywood Wax Done?
If you’ve never had one before, it can feel intimidating, but knowing what to expect helps a lot. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what a Hollywood wax entails:
1. Consultation and Prep
Your waxing therapist will start by asking a few questions about your skin, sensitivity, and whether you’ve waxed before. They’ll then step out so you can undress from the waist down. You’ll lie on a clean bed, usually on your back with your knees apart or in a “frog-leg” position.
Some salons use pre-wax oil on the skin. This helps protect the skin and stops the wax from sticking too aggressively.
2. Application of Wax
Most Hollywood waxes are done with hot wax (the thick one that’s applied, left to harden, and pulled off without strips). It’s gentler on sensitive areas compared to strip wax, especially around the labia and bum.
The therapist will apply warm wax in small sections, let it cool slightly, and then remove it quickly but carefully. They’ll work their way from the top area to the sides, then underneath, and finally the bum area.
3. Stretching the Skin
You’ll be asked to help stretch the skin in certain parts. It sounds awkward, but it makes the process faster, less painful, and more precise.
4. Final Tweaks
After all the waxed sections are done, the therapist may use tweezers to catch any stray hairs. Then they’ll apply a soothing lotion or aloe gel to calm the skin.
5. Quick Aftercare Tips
You’ll be advised to:
Avoid very hot showers for 24 hours.
Skip tight underwear.
Stay away from scrubs or exfoliation for a couple of days.
Avoid heavy exercise that causes sweating on the same day.
These help prevent irritation and bumps.
Advantages of a Hollywood Wax
Like any beauty treatment, it comes with pros and cons. Let’s start with the positives:
1. Long-Lasting Smoothness
Due to the hair being removed from the root, you’ll stay smooth for three to six weeks, depending on your hair growth pattern.
2. Thinner, Softer Regrowth Over Time
With consistent waxing, regrowth becomes finer and less dense. Some people even notice that hair grows back patchier.
3. Less Daily Maintenance
Unlike shaving, where stubble appears in two to three days, waxing gives you a long break between sessions.
4. No Razor Cuts or Dark Shadows
If you struggle with razor bumps, ingrown hairs, or the “shadow” that appears after shaving, waxing can reduce those issues significantly.
5. Clean, Completely Hair-Free Finish
If you prefer a totally smooth feel with no leftover strands, a Hollywood wax guarantees that clean sweep.
Disadvantages of a Hollywood Wax
To keep things balanced and realistic, here are some of the cons:
1. It Can Be Painful
The truth is, intimate waxing isn’t painless. Although the pain is quick, it reduces with regular sessions.
2. You Need Enough Hair to Get It Done
Hair must be at least about a grain of rice in length (roughly 1cm) before you wax. If it’s too short, it won’t lift properly.
3. The First Two Sessions Are the Toughest
Your first wax may feel more intense, especially if you’re used to shaving. Once you stick to it, it becomes easier.
4. Potential for Ingrown Hairs
Although waxing reduces the risk compared to shaving, some people still get ingrown hairs. Gentle exfoliation and proper aftercare help prevent this.
5. Not Ideal for Newly Sensitive Skin
If you’ve recently had a reaction, sunburn, or skin irritation, waxing isn’t recommended until the area heals.
Who Should Consider Getting a Hollywood Wax?
A Hollywood wax is great for people who:
prefer a completely hair-free intimate area.
want longer gaps between grooming sessions.
struggle with shaving irritation or razor bumps.
want a cleaner, smoother feel for aesthetic or personal reasons.
are consistent with grooming and don’t mind regular appointments.
However, it may not be ideal for people with:
extremely sensitive skin.
active infections, cuts, or irritations in the area.
certain medical conditions (your therapist will usually ask beforehand).
If you’re unsure, book a consultation with an experienced wax therapist; they’ll guide you honestly.
Hollywood waxing has become one of the most requested intimate-grooming treatments because it provides long-lasting smoothness, clean results, and a break from the daily hassle of shaving.
While it comes with discomfort and a bit of maintenance, many people find the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. If you’ve been curious and want something more long-term and low-maintenance, a Hollywood wax might just be the grooming upgrade you didn’t know you needed.