Since the dawn of time, women have gone through long, arduous, painful processes for the sake of beauty. But none is more controversial than the bikini wax. Though the results seem cleaner and more sanitary than the alternative, bikini waxes are sort of hazardous. Because you’re ripping the hair out of the follicle, you are exposing your open pores to the environment. Also, waxing causes little tears in the skin that are also unprotected and exposed. Because it’s your pubic region, there is much more bacteria that can infect and cause serious problems. Cellulitis, a bacterial infection that has affected some bikini waxed women, causes swelling, fevers, extreme pain, and if left untreated could result in lower limb amputation or death.

Other incidences of infection are the spreading of herpes or other STDs. In one extreme case, an Australian woman with Type-1 Diabetes got infected with a flesh eating virus. Time to start taking precautions when scheduling your next appointment.

1. Triple Check the Cleanliness of the Salon
Some people think it’s rude to look around or ask if the salon is sanitary, but it’s better to ask and risk offense, than to possibly risk infection that would wind up closing the salon down. Ask detailed questions about the procedure, get a friend’s recommendation, and observe yourself whether or not the place looks clean.

2. Ask for Hard Wax
Hard wax is much gentler as it only adheres to the hair. Some estheticians say using hard wax means more tweezing to removal of the hair, but soft wax will be more painful and cause more irritation. It’s a toss up.

3. No Double Dipping
No one likes it when you double dipped in the salsa. It’s grosser when it’s in the salon. Dipping the tool used on your skin back in the wax is a huge no-no. Germs from your skin would then contaminate the wax meaning the next person will get your cooties…and you’ll probably get someone else’s as well!

4. Baby Bottle Test
Hot wax is well… hot, as it should be—though wax can get to an unsafe temperature. The esthetician should test the temperature on their wrist like a mother does with baby bottles. If the wax is too hot, you will be burned in the worst place possible. Ouch!

5. Do Not DIY
Although there are several do it yourself bikini waxing products, it is a very sensitive and meticulous process that it’s probably best left to the professionals.

6. Post Wax Procedures
After your wax, make sure to apply an antibiotic and an anti-inflammatory cream, as infection and slight swelling can ensue rather quickly. For those prone to ingrown hairs, this roll-on gel is a liquid exfoliator that keeps all wax-related bumps at bay.