What is sugar waxing: A gentle hair removal alternative.
Sugar wax has a sweet name, but what is sugar waxing? Sugar waxing is an ancient hair removal method that can be dated back to 1900 BC.
Sugar wax is made of sugar, water, and lemon juice.
Unlike hard or soft wax, sugar wax is free from chemicals. Another difference between sugar wax and other wax is that it’s applied in the opposite direction of hair growth. This technique allows more hair to be removed from the root versus just being removed from the surface layer.
How Sugar Waxing Works
Keep in mind that sugar wax and sugaring is different. Someone could use sugar wax without using the sugaring technique. So, if you are still wondering what is sugar waxing? Most "sugariest" refer to it as using the sugar ball method.
Once the sugar paste is at the desired temperature it’s picked up using one hand and rolled into a ball using a thumb, pointer, and middle finger. Using three fingers the ball is then pressed down to mold the wax into the hair in the opposite direction of hair growth. The paste is then removed by flicking, using a quick and firm wrist movement. Once removed the wax and hair should be off your skin.
Sugar paste can be applied with an applicator and or removed with a strip. As an experienced sugariest; I do believe that the best and longest-lasting results come from the stickless and strapless sugaring method.
Although it can take a while to master the sugar waxing ball technique, I believe it allows the wax to mix better with the hair and makes for more hair to be removed from the root.
Benefits Of Sugar Waxing
Sugar wax is growing in popularity because of its all-natural ingredients how gentle it is on the skin, but most importantly because of its amazing results.
Aside from being all natural, when done correctly sugar wax is ideal for sensitive skin. Sugar waxing helps to prevent ingrown hair, creates longer lasting results and causes your hair to grow in finer and less dense.
Sugar paste only adheres to dead skin and hair. Which means if your hair is stubborn or course the sugar paste can be applied and removed serval times without your skin getting irritated. It also causes less redness and skin irritation.
The sugar waxing method allows more hair to be removed from the root and more follicles may become weaker. Repeated treatments will lead to finer, sparser hair regrowth over time.
Sugar wax also creates less waste for the environment, and it’s easy to make at home.
Sugar wax dissolves in water. So, if you do try it at home and decide it’s better for you to see a professional you can take a hot shower and rinse it right off.
Sugar Wax Vs Other Methods?
So, what makes sugar so sweet? Besides from sugar wax being all natural there are a couple other differences between sugar wax and hard wax
1.Application- when using the true sugar wax technique there aren’t any stick or strips used during the sugar waxing process. The wax is picked up, applied and removed with the hand.
2.Gentle - Sugar wax only adheres to dead skin and hair, so clients see less irritation, redness and feel less discomfort after waxing.
3.Longer Lasting- with the sugar waxing ball method more hair is likely to come from root than be removed from the surface layer of the skin. Providing longer lasting results.
4.Easy Clean Up- sugar wax dissolves in water. If it gets on your clothes or anywhere, is it will wash off with warm water.
Sugar waxing requires some practice to master the technique, but if you are looking for a DIY wax, I would suggest you start with sugar. Although you may not be able to do the true sugar technique starting off you can make a softer sugar paste and use strip to remove your hair. This option can still give you good results without you paying for a wax kit.
Who Should Consider Sugar Waxing?
Anyone who has hair in unwanted places should consider sugar waxing. Sugar wax is for all hair styles and Fitzpatricks.
It’s especially beneficiary for people who’ve had allergic reactions to other forms of wax, have sensitive skin, are prone to ingrown hairs or would like longer lasting results.
If you have diabetes, you should consult a doctor before trying sugar waxing, as the process may affect blood sugar levels. Pregnant women should also check with their healthcare provider before receiving any type of waxing services.
Tips For Successful Sugar Waxing Experience
Whether you plan to sugar wax yourself at home or visit a professional there are a few things you can do to prepare for your wax.
1.Hair Growth– wait 2-3 weeks from your last hair removal treatment before you sugar wax. This includes tweezing, shaving, Nair or using hard wax. Your hair must be at least 1/4 of an inch before it can be removed.
2.Exfoliate – it’s important to exfoliate 2-4 tikes a week leading up to your sugar wax. You should stop exfoliating 24-48 hours before you sugar wax. This will assure your skin isn’t too thin before your wax. Exfoliating will help pull out any hair that’s trapped up the skin so it can be sugared.
3.Moisturize– dry skin to do lack of moisture or dehydration can cause your pores to tighten and make it difficult to sugar wax the hair. Be sure to moisturize daily up until the day of your sugar wax.
4.Aftercare- how you treat your skin after a wax is just as important as how you treat it before. Apply aloe or a natural soothing fragrance-free soothing gel. Avoid tight clothes, avoid saunas, sun, hot tubs, pools, sweating and sex for at least 24 hours after you wax.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to sugar waxing, there are a few common questions that people tend to have. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Does sugar wax hurt?
During the sugar waxing process hair is being removed from the root, so there will be some discomfort. Your pain threshold, skin sensitivity, hair texture, hair length, sugar wax paste, and experience of the person performing the sugar wax can affect the pain you experience. Most of the time, people find the pain tolerable and worth the results.
How long does sugar wax last?
How long your skin remains smooth after sugar waxing depends on several factors such as genetics, post-care, your hair texture, and how well it was removed. In general, you can expect smooth skin for 2-3 weeks.
Can sugar waxing cause ingrown hairs?
Like any hair removal method, sugar waxing can potentially cause ingrown hairs. However, because sugar waxing removes hair in the direction of growth rather than against it, it may be less likely to cause ingrown hairs than other methods such as shaving or traditional waxing.
Is sugar waxing safe for sensitive skin?
Sugar wax only adheres to dead skin and hair which makes it a great alternative for people with sensitive skin.
Can sugar waxing be done at home?
Yes, you can make sugar wax at home and wax yourself. It is important to apply and remove it properly. Improper removal of sugar wax can cause bruising and or ingrown hairs, or irritation to the skin.
What sugar can you use to make sugar wax?
White or brown granulated sugar can be used to make sugar wax.
Is sugar waxing sanitary?
Like soft or hard wax, sugar waxing is sanitary especially when proper practices are followed. Sugar has natural antibacterial properties. Plus, these isn’t any double dipping with sticks. Sugar wax is used in single portions and thrown away after use.
How long does sugar waxing take?
The time it takes to be sugar waxed depends on the area being waxed and the experience of the professional. Small areas expect 10-15 min. For medium areas 20-30 minutes. Large areas 45min to an hour.
What are some contraindications for sugar waxing?
Some conditions that may prevent you from getting a sugar wax are skin conditions such as sunburn, rashes, eczema, or psoriasis. Active infections or open wounds. Recent chemical peels, microdermabrasion or other skin treatments.
Chelse Collins is a millennial entrepreneur with a diverse background in broadcast media, beauty, health, and wellness. Holding a bachelor's degree in journalism from Florida A&M University and earning her nail specialist license at just 16, she now leverages her expertise to educate women on unique spa experiences, treatments, and overall wellness.