Everything You Need To Know About Waxing vs. Sugaring

Waxing has been around for quite a few centuries and dates to the times of the ancient Egyptians, with their original recipe utilizing honey, oil, and sugar. In fact, some consider this recipe to be the origin of sugaring as well. But what is the difference between the two options, and which is better for your skin? Here’s everything you need to know about sugaring versus waxing to help you make the best choice for your body.

What Are the Ingredients?

Body wax utilizes several materials, and each brand will likely feature different ratios, formulas, or additives. Manufacturers and DIYers create sugaring wax with water, lemon juice, and—you guessed it —sugar! It’s very simple to make either of these waxes at home, as most of the ingredients are readily available at your local beauty or grocery store.

Is One More or Less Painful?

Here’s the truth: no hair removal process is completely painless. You’re bound to feel something no matter what you use, but many consider sugaring less painful as the mixture doesn’t adhere to your skin. But because all bodies are different, one may simply be more painful to you than the other.

What’s the Process?

When you wax using strips or hard wax, you apply wax in the direction of the hair growth and then pull it against the growth to rip out hair from the root. With sugaring, you apply the paste against the direction of the hair growth and quickly pull in that same direction. Additionally, the wax must be hot to work, while sugaring wax is generally functional at room temperature.

Which One Lasts Longer?

Unfortunately, there’s no straight answer to this question, as both forms of waxing remove hair from the root. Whether you sugar or wax, the results can last for up to four weeks. However, some people find that sugaring doesn’t remove all the hair at once, especially if done at home.

What’s Best for Sensitive Skin?

Part of why people turn to organic beauty products is that the ingredients are easier to understand and recognize. Because of sugar wax’s simple ingredient list, most people can use it, even those with sensitive skin. With sugaring, there are no additives or long ingredient lists you must sift through, making it much easier to avoid irritation and inflammation.

Now that you know more about sugaring versus waxing, what’s best for your body? Remember that regardless of what may currently be popular, you should choose the best hair removal process for you. And, of course, there’s no shame in waxing, sugaring, leaving hair as it is, or otherwise—no matter what option you choose.