How is sugaring different from waxing?

Though they may sound similar, sugaring and waxing are different. The main distinction is the direction the hair is pulled.

With waxing, you apply the wax in the same direction as hair growth and remove the wax in the opposite direction. This method can cause hair follicles to break in half, as you’re pulling against the direction of hair follicles. When it comes to sugaring, you’re applying the mixture in the opposite direction and then pulling hair in the direction it grows. Waxing is often done in one pass, while sugaring may take several passes. Sugaring doesn’t remove as many additional skin cells since the cooled mixture doesn’t adhere to your skin. Wax does stick to your skin, so when it’s pulled off, it can cause irritation.

How long does sugaring last?

Hair growth can vary depending on site but most treatments last for about three weeks. Waxing can last between two and eight weeks depending on how fast your hair grows.

How does sugaring work?

The paste used for sugaring is made with sugar, lemon juice and water. It’s warmed up to your body’s temperature before being applied. After cleaning your skin, a layer of paste is applied in the opposite direction that your hair grows. Then, in quick, short flicking motions, the sugar paste is removed, pulling hair in the direction it grows. As the paste is sticky, it adheres to your body’s hair and pulls it out as it’s removed. The length of each appointment varies depending on the area and extent of hair being treated.

Benefits

With sugaring, your hair may grow back softer and thinner than before, especially the more you do it. It may also cause less irritation than waxing. And the application and clean-up of sugaring is an easy process, as the paste is water-based. It’ll easily wash out of clothes, and if any residue is left over on your skin, you can use water to remove it.