Men's Waxing: Your First Time, Embarrassment and How to Overcome the Barriers
More and more men are getting waxed. If embarrassment is holding you back, here are some honest answers.
Around 40% of men who book a waxing appointment are doing so for the first time. The barrier is not the pain: it is the embarrassment.
Why the embarrassment persists
Male waxing accounts for 20-30% of appointments. It is part of the day-to-day routine at a professional salon. You do not need to explain why you want to get waxed.
Most popular areas
Back and shoulders
The most requested area. 20-30 min. Moderate pain (3-4/10).
Chest and abdomen
15-20 min. More sensitive on the sternum and nipples (4-5/10).
Bikini line
The one that causes the most embarrassment. 10-25 min depending on the extent. The professional will guide your positioning and work quickly.
Arms, underarms, buttocks
Common add-ons. Underarms 5 min, buttocks 10-15 min.
Step by step: your first appointment
- Brief consultation (2-3 min): areas, allergies, medication
- Pre-wax cleansing
- Application of hot wax
- Pull and removal (less than 1 second)
- Tweezer touch-up + soothing product
- Post-wax instructions (24-48 h without sun, swimming, tight clothing)
Realistic pain levels by area
| Area | Pain (1-10) |
|---|---|
| Back | 3-4 |
| Arms | 2-3 |
| Chest | 4-5 |
| Underarms | 4-5 |
| Standard bikini | 5-6 |
| Full bikini | 6-7 |
The first session is always the worst. From the 2nd or 3rd session onwards, the pain drops noticeably.
Frequency
- Back/chest/arms: every 4-6 weeks
- Bikini line: every 4-5 weeks
- Underarms: every 3-4 weeks
Over time the intervals get longer. Waxing does not make hair grow back thicker.
Waxing vs other options
| Method | Result | Pain |
|---|---|---|
| Waxing | 3-6 weeks | Moderate |
| Shaving | 1-3 days | None |
| Hair removal cream | 5-10 days | None |
| Trimmer | 3-7 days | None |
Preparation
- Let it grow for 10-15 days
- Exfoliate 24-48 h beforehand
- No creams or oils on the day of the appointment
- Avoid sun 24 h before
- Mention any medication (isotretinoin, anticoagulants)
Aftercare
- 24 h without sun, swimming or exercise
- 48 h without alcohol-based deodorant on underarms
- Day 3-4: begin exfoliating 2-3 times per week
- Daily moisturising
- Do not shave between sessions
Preventing folliculitis through exfoliation is key with male body hair.
FAQ
Do I have to undress completely?
Only the area being treated. The therapist works in sections.
Does the hair grow back thicker afterwards?
No. That is a myth. More information here.
Can I try just one area?
Yes, that is the most common approach for a first session.
How long does the redness last?
2-6 hours on fair skin. Small red dots in the bikini area for up to 12-24 h. This is normal and not an allergic reaction.