Waxing requests concern

Girls as young as 14 are asking for Brazilian waxes, raising concern about the sexualisation of children.

Bianka Seputich, of Isis Spa in Newmarket, said she usually fielded inquiries about the intimate hair removal treatment as Auckland's school ball season approached.

"I think it's a little bit wrong. If I didn't feel comfortable doing it, I'd turn the girl away."

There are no age restrictions on many beauty procedures, and there are reports in Australia of girls as young as nine going to salons for leg waxes.

National Council of Women of New Zealand president Elizabeth Bang said that can sexualise girls and contribute to them growing up too quickly.

"That can lead to promiscuity and all kinds of problems like depression and eating disorders."

Suyin Ginn of East Day Spa in Auckland wouldn't recommend waxing for anyone who hasn't reached puberty.

"I think 9 and 10 is too young ... but if they're going to school and shaving their legs anyway, I think that's acceptable."

The salon doesn't have a policy on Brazilian waxing - popular with celebrities including Gwyneth Paltrow, Demi Moore and Eva Longoria - but wouldn't perform the procedure on anyone under the age of sexual consent, 16.

Auckland's Off Wax Bar requires parental consent for all waxing on girls under the age of consent. But owner Nicky Shore said very few girls under 16 visit the salon.