When it comes to removing unwanted body hair, shaving seems to be a part of nearly everyone’s routine. We shave it off, but it grows right back. So when a longer-lasting result is needed, what do we do? Well, most of us go get a hot wax. It’s unpleasant – I can’t think of anyone who enjoys it – but it works. But what about sugaring? How does it work? Is it a good option? Let’s take a quick look at each one to determine which is best for you.
What is Waxing?
First things first: If you’re not familiar with waxing, it is the process used to remove areas of body hair by pulling them out from the root. A warm oil-based wax is spread across the skin and then covered with a strip of muslin cloth. When the wax is cooled, the strip is quickly separated from the skin, bringing the dried wax and unwanted hair follicles with it.
What is Sugaring?
The process of sugaring is almost identical to waxing. But instead of a hot wax, sugar uses an all-natural mix of sugar, lemon juice, water, and glycerin that is usually at room temperature. The hair removal process though, is pretty similar. It is still laid on the skin and pulled off with a strip of muslin cloth.
Waxing versus Sugaring
If you just can’t handle the pain of waxing, give sugaring a try. It doesn’t hurt nearly as badly. Don’t get me wrong, though. It’s not exactly comfortable, but the pain is diminished. Here’s why: With waxing, the cloth is removed in the opposite direction from the natural hair pattern – against the grain. But with sugaring, it is removed in the natural direction of the growth pattern – with the grain. The hairs are still taken out by their roots, but this change in direction makes a huge difference in the level of discomfort. Plus, unlike wax, the sugar paste doesn’t stick to your skin. Instead, it only attaches to the hair. So when it comes time to rip off the muslin cloth, your skin is left unharmed.
It’s important to point out that sugaring can sometimes struggle to remove thick, coarse hairs. Waxing, on the other hand, has no problem yanking out any follicles, no matter how tough. If you’re unsure if sugaring is an option for you, ask your aesthetician.