When discussing hair removal, the age-old debate between sugaring and waxing frequently arises. As an expert in hair removal, I have tried the two, but I will break down in this article the seven vital differences between the two.
Trust me, you’ll have to read this before you book your next appointment at the European Wax Center or your local sugaring salons.
Let’s figure out which of these methods can be the best for you and your sensitive skin.
What does it consist of?
Sugaring: as a result of being irritated by buying chemicals, the ancient Egyptians decided to try an all-natural solution and developed something we now call sugar paste, made up of—as you may have guessed—sugar, lemon juice, and water.
The ingredients are natural, and you could technically eat them, although I wouldn’t suggest trying it unless you love really sweet things and don’t mind weird textures for sensitive skin types.
Waxing: this comes in various or different waxes, hard wax, soft wax, and soft waxes.
It contains sticky substances, oils, and various other things.
For those that have sensitive skin types, I would suggest you go for sugaring due to it having fewer ingredients that could be irritating.
How to use it?
Sugaring: at body temperature or just a little bit hot, the sugar paste is applied.
It is applied against the direction of hair growth and pulled off in the direction of hair growth, this helps in stopping hair breakage.
Waxing: the most common way that this is applied may be warm or sometimes hot. Soft wax and hard wax are both applied in the direction of hair growth and pulled off against the direction of hair growth.
Soft wax is removed with cloth or paper strips, while hard wax is pulled directly off the skin. Both the hard and soft wax pull hair out from the root.
I suggest sugaring to remove hair if you are concerned about burns post your hair removal because the sugaring paste is a lot cooler and pretty much safer for sensitive skin types.
How effective is it?
Sugaring: sugaring remove hair by sticking to the hair follicles, and not to the skin, and due to this it is less painful and can prevent ingrown hairs more. Sugaring might pick shorter hair—about 1/16 inch— than waxing.
Waxing: waxing removes larger, and thicker hair very well and performs better on wider areas. However, it may provide a little prevention when it comes to ingrown hairs because it creates a draw from the growth of hairs. Waxes contain very essential oils in them
Both techniques remove hair effectively, but when talking about which can prevent ingrown hairs better between sugaring and waxing, I would advise going with sugaring.
Softens skin and removes dead skin cells
Sugaring: indeed, sugaring removes hair but apart from that it also removes dry skin as it is done on the skin, hence satisfying the client by making the skin smoother.
Waxing: though waxing does remove dead skin cells, it is by far way more rigorous and unforgiving if done on fragile skin type.
In regard to beauty and regenerating the skin, sugaring and waxing are both great, but I’d prefer sugaring for ease of the skin without rashes and smoothing skin
Which one is hurting?
Sugaring: many people think sugaring hurts less because it only sticks to dead skin cells and hair, not to live skin cells.
This means less trauma to the skin because, in comparison with most chemical hair removal techniques, sugaring may lead to a little discomfort or none.
Waxing: waxing can hurt, and the Brazilian wax is on top of that list because when in use it sticks to both the hair and the skin cells, and that ends up tugging on the skin too.
Sugaring should be the go-to method for you if you have a very low ability to withstand pain.
Cleaning up: a sticky situation
Sugaring: sugar paste can dissolve in water; hence, tidying up is not hard.
You will be able to rinse off any extra amount that is left on your skin with water.
Waxing: washing up wax remains is a lot harder. Most of the time, it needs some oil-based products developed specifically for cleaning leftovers of wax.
Both sugaring and waxing can create a bit of a mess, but to make cleanup easier, I’d say you go for this sugaring, mainly because it’s not that sticky and messy.
Skin preparation and aftercare
Sugaring: very minor skin readying is needed for sugaring. Before your appointment, avoid wearing lotions and be sure your body is not dirty. Afterward, avoid excess sweating and/or anything fragrance for a couple of days to avoid irritating that area.
Waxing: you may need to prep your skin the same way as sugaring, just that you may end up being required to exfoliate the area a little before coming in for your appointment.
You can care for waxing afterward by applying soothing products and by avoiding tight clothes to prevent skin irritation.
For sugaring and waxing, the two require skin prep, I recommend you follow these skin prep and aftercare tips to minimize discomfort and maximize results.
How often should I remove hair?
Sugaring: consistency is very important when considering this type of hair removal process. Sugaring works on shorter hair and can normally be done more frequently.
Waxing: waxing is generally done every 2–4 weeks, so you have a longer period of hair growth before making your next session.
If you prefer a more regular hair removal schedule, then sugaring is the way to go.
Understanding hair growth patterns
The growth of hair can vary significantly from person to person, influencing the frequency and how well various hair removal techniques work.
Getting to know how your hair growth works can help you make your choice between sugaring and waxing.
Sure! Hair grows in three stages: growth, transition, and resting. Sugaring and waxing work best when your hair is actively growing, which happens during the anagen phase.
Conclusion
Choosing between sugaring and waxing completely depends on your skin type, hair type, and what you like.
Though both methods have their benefits, it should be noted that when both are carried out in the right manner, they will make the skin feel smooth and hairless skin feel.
However, having personally experienced both, I now believe sugaring is the better technique for most individuals, particularly those with delicate skin and who cannot stand a lot of pain.
The use of natural materials, the relatively painless technique of hair removal options, and the extra function of exfoliation set this option apart.
FAQ
Is sugaring better than waxing?
Sugaring is usually best for fragile skin and is less painful. It also makes use of natural ingredients, and it does help exfoliate.
What is the downside to sugaring?
On thick or coarse hair it might not be that effective and can require more regular treatment. It could also be less available than waxing services.
What hurts more, sugaring or waxing?
Sugaring is agreed to be less painful than waxing because it only sticks to hair and dead skin cells, not live skin.
Is sugar wax better than cold wax?
Sugar wax is better than cold wax. It’s not that painful, more natural, and easier to clean up due to its water solubility.
wax vs sugaring