I’ve been waxing my bikini line at home for 10 years, here is my ultimate guide for doing it in your bathroom in 15 minutes

Wax virgins and waxing wizards alike, gather round.

Summer is officially on the horizon and though we’re generally thinking about all the amazingness that is to come – holidays, partying with friends, rooftop drinks and mini dresses with granddad sandals – there’s a side to the warmer months that can cast a dark cloud for some of us: the need to wax, especially our bikini line.

Now, not everyone will be removing hair, it’s a personal choice and we don’t judge one way or the other, but if you are someone who prefers to be hair-free, then waxing is one of the most popular methods of choice out there. Aside from the pain though, getting a bikini wax can cost around £50, so, if you have a wax every few weeks, over the course of the year, you would be spending close to £1000. On your pubic hair.  But I refuse to spend my hard earned wage on removing something that already belongs to me, which is why I can smugly say I’ve never had a professional bikini wax, ever.

For over 10 years, I’ve been waxing my own bikini line at home. It might initially have had something to do with being spread-eagled in front of a beauty technician (who I’m sure are beyond professional), or hearing whispers of horror stories from my friends, but, since I already waxed my legs, it seemed like the best method of hair removal for me and natural progression of my DIY skill set.

I get that it can seem daunting, but, honestly, it’s pretty easy once you know the ropes. Now, I can give myself a full wax in less than 15 minutes.

That said, it’s not always been plain sailing – I’ve made plenty of mistakes over the years, so I wanted to share some of the lessons I’ve learned along the way. And, for those who like me are also reluctant to book at a salon or can’t get their hands on an appointment right now, I have shared my step-my-step guide to nailing it every time (with zero tears). Here goes…

Why wax?

It’s up to you whether you prefer no hair down there or a full bush. I for one love the feeling of super smooth nethers for over 3 weeks. Anyone who’s had razor rash can testify; shaving is not so much fun, and I was put off by the pain of epilating. So, for no stubble or itchiness and baby-smooth skin on the cheap, waxing was the clear winner for me.

What kind of wax should I use?

It comes down to your preference, but I’m firmly in the hot wax camp that you heat up in the microwave or in a pot of water on the stove. Trust me on this one, I’ve used some of those waxing strips and ripped off a layer of skin where no one wants to be skinless. I’ve also found it’s much easier to bruise by pulling the strip too vigorously, which is something I rarely ever experience with the hot wax.