When your mom was your age, feeling well-groomed in the summer demanded no more than some Coppertone^®, a razor, a tube of Clearasil^®, and some lipstick. Today's teen has a more rigorous summer regimen, one including spray-on tans, pedicures, different SPF numbers on sunscreens for different times of the day, and several options for hair removal. When we read that the Director of Adolescent Medicine and Gynecology at Montreal's Children's Hospital said that an overwhelming percentage of the teenage girls the hospital sees remove some or all of their pubic hair by shaving or Brazilian waxing, we thought it was time for us to explain what is a Brazilian wax, and what's involved in beauty's newest, most revolutionary, sought after—yet vicious—procedure!

A Brazilian bikini wax removes the hair from the entire pubic region, except for a small patch just above the vaginal area. Once relegated to strippers and Playboy models, now proponents say it makes them feel clean and neat and is as much a part of their personal hygiene routine as shaving their legs. Since 1987 when it was introduced to New York by seven Brazilian-born sisters, Brazilian waxing has gone mainstream. Its popularity stems from the freedom it provides to wear even the smallest of bikini bottoms.

That said, it's definitely an acquired taste and not right for everyone. The procedure itself occurs in a private room with a door. You'll lie on your back with your legs in the air. The best waxers are quick (duh!) as they first spread hot wax on your labia, pat a cloth over the wax, and then pull the cloth off. Waxing usually starts in the front and moves toward the back. Don't be alarmed if you're asked to move around in all sorts of odd positions in order for the waxer to do her job. If you decide that this is something you'd like to try, you should be aware: (1) Don't book a waxing just before or during your period. Your body is at its most sensitive then, not exactly what you're looking for! (2) A Brazilian wax lasts from three weeks up to two months before stubble appears. (3) Your hair has to be at least ¼ inch long. Waxing really long hairs is more painful. (4) You may experience red bumps or ingrown hairs. (5) The procedure takes 15–30 minutes and can cost up to $75, whereas regular bikini waxes range from $30–50.