FAQs
Here are some common questions about sugaring. If you need more information, feel free to contact us.
Q: Does sugaring hurt as much as waxing?
A: Sugaring removes hair from the root so you will feel it. Everyone’s pain tolerance is different but most people find that sugaring hurts less than waxing (especially on the face). This is because sugaring does NOT adhere to live skin and it is removed in the direction of hair growth. The great thing about sugaring is that the more you do it, the less it hurts because the hair grows back thinner and less dense. Less hair = less pain.
Q: How long does my hair need to be?
A: One of the key advantages to sugaring is that it can remove the shorter hairs that waxing cannot. Hair as short as 1/16 of an inch can be successfully extracted. For best results hair should be between 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch…the length of a grain of rice. If longer than ½ inch, trimming before your appointment can make your sugaring session more comfortable.
Q: How long should I wait between treatments?
A: We recommended that the hair be between 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the best results. Each person will have a different rate of growth but typically the first few treatments are spaced 3-4 weeks apart to get the hairs on the same schedule. Subsequent treatments are then spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
Q: Does sugaring cause ingrown hairs?
A: Anytime hair is removed ingrown hairs can occur. That being said, most people find that sugaring leads to less ingrown hairs than waxing or shaving. This is one of the main reasons why people prefer sugaring over other hair removal methods.
Q: What do I do about ingrown hairs?
A: Regular exfoliating and keeping the skin moisturized are the two most important factors in reducing and preventing ingrown hairs. The hair is missing out of the follicle for approximately 3 weeks after sugaring. This means that dead skin cells can grow over the mouth of the follicle blocking the new hair from growing up and out. Exfoliating will remove the dead skin cells and keep the follicle clear. Use of exfoliating gloves in the shower can help but be sure to clean gloves regularly. Sugar scrubs are also effective and can draw moisture to the skin. Remember to always moisturize after cleansing the skin.
If you find your ingrowns are painful and pustoulous, add an antibacterial ingredient to disinfect and help draw out the bacteria. You can do a salt compresses or baking soda paste as well. There are also a number of professional products, such as Finipil, that can help with the prevention of ingrown hairs.
Q: Will my skin be red after a service?
A: Slight irritation is completely normal and should dissipate within 24 hours. If you experience hives you can try taking an antihistamine. You can also apply a cold compress to the irritated area or use a soothing cream to alleviate the redness. Soaking in a warm (not hot) sea salt bath for 15 minutes a few hours after your appointment will also help to speed up the heeling time. Make sure to rinse off all the salt water after soaking.
Q: Can I tan right before or after I sugar?
A: Please allow 24-48 hours prior to and after sugaring before you tan (sun or spray)
Q: Can I work out after sugaring?
A: It is best to wait 24 hours after sugaring to work out as your follicles are open and sweat and dirt can add to skin irritation.
Q: Can I sugar if I’m using Accutane?
A: No. Accutane can cause drying and thinning of the skin. Wait at least 6 months after discontinuation before sugaring.
Q: Can I sugar if I’m using Retin-A, Renova, Tazorac or Differin?
A: Applied topically these products can increase skin shedding and thin the skin. It is not recommended that you sugar the areas where these medications are applied. Wait at least 3 months after the discontinuation of these products before sugaring.
Q: What is a Brazilian?
A: A Brazilian removes all hair from the pubic area including the labia and anal region. All services can be customized to create the look you desire so if you want to leave a little hair that is fine too!
Q: What should I do before my appointment?
A: No sun tanning prior to a treatment. Avoid stimulants such as caffeine. Keeping your skin exfoliated and hydrated is very important however; do not exfoliate the day before or the day of a treatment.
Q: What should I do after my appointment?
A: You may feel a little sensitive. Avoid heat (sun, hot showers, exercise), friction and synthetic materials. Avoid any creams, lotions, or deodorants with artificial fragrances. Do not use any products with hydroxy acids for at least 24-48 hrs. This could cause more sensitivity.
Q: How sanitary is sugaring?
A: Bacteria cannot breed in high concentrations of sugar so sugaring is VERY sanitary. There is NO risk of cross contamination because we use only pure sugar paste with clean, gloved hands.
Q: Will I leave sticky?
A: Sugar is water-soluble and can be easily rinsed off with a little warm water. No sticky residue is left on the skin or clothing after a treatment.
Q: Can sugaring lead to permanency?
A: Hair growth is more refined after each sugaring session. After a number of treatments the hair follicle begins to deplete, which can lead to permanency over time but this will vary between individuals. It may take 18 months to 3 years to achieve permanency.