Sugaring (epilation)

Sugaring (also known as 'Persian waxing') is a method of hair removal that has been in use for thousands of years. The process is similar to waxing, though there are a few differences in the two. Sugaring is supposed to be less painful because it only sticks to the hair (wax will also attach to the skin). Since it is made out of natural ingredients, it is supposed to be less harmful than wax as well; however, "natural" does not necessarily mean "safe". Though the process and the materials usually leaves a sticky mess, sugar is soluble in water and therefore sugaring involves a relatively easy cleanup with warm water.

Sugaring paste can be prepared with common household food items, such as sugar, lemon juice, honey or molasses. Getting the consistency correct takes some practice for most users. The area to be epilated is typically dusted with powder prior to application of the sugaring solution, which is spread on with a spatula, tongue depressor, or other flat object. After the sticky paste is applied to the skin, a strip of porous cloth or paper is pressed into the preparation. The strip is then quickly pulled away in the opposite direction of hair growth, taking hairs with it.


 * The above is a description for "sugar waxing"- There is another form of "sugaring" which is considered to be the ancient form of this technique. "Sugaring" uses a thick sugar paste consisting of sugar, lemon and water. The ball of paste is applied and molded, by hand, against the natural direction of hair growth and with a flick of the wrist the sugar is quickly removed in the direction of growth- taking the entire hair (root and all) with it. The same ball of sugar paste is used over and over again until all the hair has been removed. There is no risk of cross contamination with this technique making it a much more sanitary procedure than waxing. Although it's not painless this form of Sugaring tends to be considerably less painful than waxing as well. There are a number of reasons for this- The sugar paste will not adhere to the skin, the paste is heated to body temperature only, and the hair is extracted in the direction of growth making it more effective in extracting the entire hair and leaving little to no breakage.

Pre-made sugar waxing solutions are also sold under several brand names and can be found in most drug stores. Professional sugaring products can either be made at home or purchased from manufactures but they are sold to certified practitioners only.