Waxing is a painful process and if you’re one of the many people are looking for an alternative, sugaring might be exactly what you're looking for. Not sure if sugaring is right for you? Learn more about the process and how it is different before making your decision.

What is sugaring?

Sugaring is a hair removal process that involves using a natural paste to remove hair from the root in a less abrasive way than other methods. It's actually a medieval process of hair removal that has recently been revived.

Sugaring paste is made from a mixture of sugar, lemon, and water heated together to form a candy-like consistency. While the ingredients are simple, getting the mixture just right on your own is quite challenging.

The paste wraps around the hair follicle and removes the hair from the root; because of this, it grows back thinner over time. We recommend that a trained and licensed aesthetician complete the first sugaring process before you try it for yourself at home.

Sugaring Vs. Waxing

While some people may see sugaring and waxing as a similar process, there are some distinct differences that can significantly impact the results. One of the major reasons for the different results is with sugaring the paste is applied in the opposite direction to hair growth and removed in the same direction, while with waxing, it is the opposite: the wax is applied in the same direction and removed in the opposite direction. The waxing process goes against the grain, so is more painful and harsh on the body.

Here are some of the major differences between sugaring and waxing at a glance.

Is sugaring less painful than waxing?

We cannot say that sugaring isn’t painful; it is still removing the hairs from the root as well as dead skin cells. However, many people report that it is less painful than waxing.

It’s also important to note that the first time sugaring is likely the most painful as this is when the hair will be the thickest. Over time, the hair will grow back in slower and finer, making the treatment less painful. 

There are a few things you can do before your treatment to help reduce the pain:

• Allow hair to grow out for 4 weeks.
• Exfoliate consistently leading up to the appointment.
• Schedule your appointment the week after your menstrual cycle (you are the least sensitive this week).
• Take a pain reliever 30 mins before the appointment.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to appointment (preferably a dress).
• Avoid caffeine as this is a stimulant and can make you more sensitive.
• Schedule a vajacial treatment to take care of any skin concerns you may have.

What is a vajacial treatment? 

Vajacial is like a facial for your vagina. It’s a spa treatment typically performed after a hair removal treatment like sugaring; it focuses on the bikini line and outer labia (not the inner vagina).

Ready to Try Sugaring?

Book your first sugaring appointment for four weeks from now, so you have time to allow your hair to grow out for the treatment and purchase the My Vikini Three-Step System for aftercare. Note that it can also be helpful to book your appointment the week after your next menstrual cycle, as this is when you are least sensitive.

To prepare for your treatment, we also recommend exfoliating your skin regularly. If you’re worried about pain during the treatment, avoid consuming caffeine or alcohol before the appointment and take a pain reliever 30 minutes before.

How to Find a Reputable Salon

To have the best sugaring experience, you want to see a licenced aesthetician at a reputable salon. So, it’s important to do your research. Here are some things to pay attention to:

• Read reviews; this can tell you a lot about the salon's practices.
• Ensure they’re using safe and sanitary practices, such as wearing gloves.
• Reputable salons will generally require new customers to fill out a questionnaire before the appointment to ensure you’re not taking any contraindicated medications or have a medical history that could result in complications.

If you have any questions, contact us here!