What Is Sugaring and What Are the Benefits?
When it comes to removing unwanted body hair, there are a number of options at your disposal. While waxing and shaving are two of the most common hair removal methods, we’re here to go over the sugaring process and how it helps keep your skin looking smooth and hair free. Let’s discuss what sugaring is, how it works, what the benefits are, and how it compares to waxing.
What is sugaring?
The term sugaring refers to a process that’s older than you may think. Sugaring is a hair removal method that uses three simple ingredients in its simplest form: water, sugar, and a little lemon juice to remove hair at the root.
This ancient method has been used for generations with its origin story tracing back thousands of years to the middle east with frequent use within Egyptian culture and beauty standards.
How does it work?
Similar to applying a hard wax, the sugaring paste is going to be applied to the desired area while warm. As it is applied, the paste binds to each individual strand of hair while effectively avoiding any attachment to the skin.
Once the application is finished, the paste is then rapidly removed, lifting each strand of hair and follicle and leaving the individual with smooth, hair free skin.
How does sugaring differ from waxing?
First and foremost, both hard wax and soft wax are composed of harsh chemicals, resins, and other artificial ingredients that can irritate the skin. Sugaring, on the other hand, contains only natural ingredients and can even be crafted at home.
Additionally, when sugaring, the paste should be applied against the grain and rapidly pulled in the direction of hair growth. When waxing, the opposite method is used. The biggest difference is that sugaring is not hot like wax is. When sugaring, the paste is usually applied at room temperature or slightly warmer.
Is sugaring painful?
Compared to waxing, sugaring is often considered significantly less painful and irritating to the skin. Since the paste does not adhere to the skin, the other sensation clients will feel is the quick pinch of multiple strands of hair being lifted from the root at the same time. It is important to remember, though, that pain is subjective and can change from person to person.
What are the benefits of sugaring?
Now that we’ve discussed the basics of sugaring and what customers can expect during a sugaring session, let’s review why sugaring may be the perfect hair removal method for you.
Less painful than waxing
As we’ve discussed briefly a little earlier in this article, the process of sugaring is notably less painful than waxing. In fact, it’s probably considered less painful than plucking, too. If you’re looking for something that won’t leave your skin feeling angry and warm to the touch, sugaring may be the solution for you.
Gentle on sensitive skin
For those with sensitive skin or a low tolerance for pain, intimate sugaring may be a wonderful option for your hair removal needs. The simplistic, natural ingredients means that not only is it gentle on skin, the sticky nature of sugaring will also avoid the likelihood for irritation with proper aftercare.
Prevents ingrown hairs
Since sugaring works by pulling your hair in the direction of growth, there’s less of a chance for breakage, reducing the possibility for ingrown hairs. When hair breaks during your waxing appointment, or the follicle becomes inflamed as a result of irritation, red bumps and ingrown hairs can riddle the freshly waxed area. The likelihood of these occurrences is reduced when choosing to sugar over wax.
Softly exfoliates
Although the sugaring paste does not attach to your skin, it can lift the top layers of dead, dry skin cells from the area being treated.
Encourages softer, thinner hair regrowth
Similar to waxing, sugaring can also encourage any new regrowth to be thinner and more sparse. As the hair is removed directly from the root, the follicle becomes slightly damaged and, with time, can impact how thick any new hair growth is.
What to expect with sugaring vs waxing
Not sure what to expect during your sugaring appointment? We’ve got you covered! Below you can find helpful information on what to expect before, during, and after your appointment.
Before your appointment
Similar to waxing, prior to your session, you’re going to want to exfoliate at least 24-48 hours beforehand. Be sure to arrive at your appointment with clean skin and loose, comfortable clothing.
During your appointment
During your appointment, the specialist will discuss any outstanding questions you may have prior to beginning. Once you’re ready, you’ll undress around the area being waxed, the area will be wiped down, and the sugar-paste application process will begin.
Post-sugaring aftercare
It is crucial that following your sugaring session, you avoid excess sun exposure to avoid being sunburned. Avoid swimming or submerging the freshly treated area for at least 24 hours.
Exercising and going to the gym should also be avoided for at least 24 hours. Activities that make you sweat or have the potential to cause chafing could result in increased skin irritation. If irritation occurs, try applying a cooling gel.
Experience silky-smooth skin at The Honey Pot!
Come to The Honey Pot for your next hair removal service! Our goal is to be your sanctuary for all of your hair removal needs. Get in touch for more information about our studio or book an appointment and discover the benefits of sugaring!
