Both waxing styles involve using hot wax to remove hair from the area below the waist, but the distinction lies in the amount of hair removed.

During a basic bikini wax, an aesthetician removes hair from areas exposed by a typical bathing suit. This includes the top and sides of the bikini line, as well as the inner thighs if necessary.

The Brazilian wax takes it a step further, removing hair from the entire region, front to back. Since many clients prefer to leave a small, trimmed swath of hair in a strip or triangle just below the panty line, some aestheticians may use the term "full Brazilian" to refer to a session in which no hair is left behind.

Due to the sensitivity of the areas involved, Brazilians tend to be more painful than basic bikini waxes. However, most aestheticians take great care to minimize discomfort, and there are several steps you can take to prepare:

• Avoid scheduling appointments within a week of menstruation, when the skin is most sensitive.
• Take an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen 30 minutes beforehand to help reduce any resulting swelling.