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.
Many of the 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 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. Back: 25 min. Moderate pain (3-4/10).
Chest and abdomen
Chest: 25 min. More sensitive on the sternum and nipples (4-5/10).
Bikini line
The one that causes the most embarrassment. 10-15 min depending on the extent. The professional will guide your positioning and work quickly.
Arms, underarms, buttocks
Common add-ons. Underarms 10 min, buttocks 10 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.