Traditional Waxing or Sugaring: Which is the Best For Hair Removal?

It’s been two weeks and those short, stubbly hairs have started to grow in. You know what that means—it’s time to wax again.

Before you call your esthetician or run to the store to buy an at-home kit, you may want to consider another hair removal treatment that’s recently seen a resurgence. It’s called sugaring, and while the method is quite similar to waxing, the benefits are very different. Which treatment is right for you? Read on to find out.

What is Sugaring?

Although it may sound like a new trend, sugaring has been around for centuries. The practice dates back to ancient times, when it was used in Egypt, Persia, and other parts of the Middle East.

Like waxing, sugaring involves the application of a warm paste to the hair you want removed. But sugaring uses an all-natural paste, usually made of just water, lemon juice and sugar. Unlike waxing, the sugar paste is applied warm, not hot, against the direction of your hair growth.

In a salon, sugaring is typically applied by hand. At home, you can apply it with a wooden stick, just like wax. But unlike wax treatments, the hair is removed by pulling the paste off in the same direction as your hair growth. You can use your hands or even a soft cotton cloth.

Is Sugaring Right For You?

Do you have sensitive skin? Are you allergic to certain chemicals or preservatives? If so, sugaring may be right for you. Since the paste is made of natural ingredients, it won’t set off an allergic reaction.

Do you have fine, thin hair? Then sugaring may also be your best bet. The paste is less sticky than wax so it pulls fine hair up much more smoothly. Here are a few other benefits of sugaring:

• It’s less painful. As mentioned, the sugar paste is less sticky than wax, so it will pull your hair out without pulling off your skin cells. It’s also less irritating, so kiss the red bumps and rashes from waxing goodbye.
• It won’t burn your skin. Since the sugar paste isn’t applied piping hot, it won’t leave you looking for the nearest ice bath.
• The residue is easier to remove. All you need is a little water, not oil or a special mixture.
• It’s easy to make at home. If you’re a DIYer, rejoice! You probably have all the ingredients you need in your kitchen right now.

What About Waxing?

Waxing does have its place, particularly if you have thick, course hair. Men’s facial hair, for example, is not recommended for sugaring because the hair won’t come off as easily as it does with waxing.

Waxing is also a faster process. Because the sugar paste is less sticky, you may need to go over an area or two again, but you won’t need to do that with wax.

In the race for hair regrowth, there’s a tie. It can take up to two weeks for hair to grow back after either process. That said, there is one final benefit to sugaring—the more you do it, the finer and thinner your hair will become. Eventually, if you do it enough, the hair will be soft as a baby’s, and in some cases, it may not grow back at all.

If skin care is a passion of yours, consider turning it into a career with the help of Salon Success Academy. We offer an Esthetician Program that provides hands-on training in hair removal, skin care and makeup techniques. Learn from passionate, experienced educators and get prepared for licensure in as little as five months. What are you waiting for? Call 877-987-4247 to learn more.