Sugaring is an ancient hair removal technique that has become increasingly popular due to its efficacy, natural ingredients and gentle effect on the skin. However, even when sugaring, breakage and ingrown hairs can occur if the process isn’t done correctly. With the right technique and aftercare, you can minimise the risk of both and enjoy smoother, healthier skin. Here’s how:
1. Choose the Right Sugaring Paste
The type of sugaring paste you use plays a crucial role in preventing breakage. A paste that is too hard can cause hair to snap at the surface, while one that is too soft may not grab the hair properly.
- Firm sugar paste is best for coarse hair, and areas with higher body temperature like the bikini line.
- Medium sugaring paste is ideal for legs and arms, where the hair tends to be finer, and works well if you prefer using an applicator tool.
- Soft sugar wax is suitable for fine hair and cooler areas of the body.
2. Prep the Skin Properly
Preparing your skin before sugaring helps to prevent ingrown hairs and breakage.
- Exfoliate the area 24-48 hours before sugaring to remove dead skin cells and allow the sugar paste to adhere to the hair more effectively. This also helps in keeping hair from being trapped beneath the skin, which can lead to ingrowns.
- Cleanse the skin right before sugaring to remove oils and sweat; which could interfere with the sugar paste’s ability to grip the hair.
- Use a pre-sugaring powder to absorb moisture and create a smooth surface for the sugar paste to adhere to.
3. Master the Application Technique
How to apple and remove the sugar paste directly impacts hair removal effectiveness.
- Apply against the hair growth: Apply the sugar paste against the natural direction of hair growth, allowing the paste to seep into the hair follicles and grip the hair from the root.
- Remove with the hair growth: With quick and fluid motions, remove the sugar wax in the direction of hair growth to avoid breakage and reduce the likelihood of irritation or ingrown hairs.
- Hold the skin taut: Always keep the skin taut while removing the paste. This minimises discomfort and ensures the hair is pulled from the root, reducing the chance of breakage.
4. Use Proper Technique for Longer Hairs
When sugaring longer hairs, the risk of breakage increases.
- Trim longer hairs down to about 1/4 inch before sugaring. This ensures the sugar paste can grip the hair from the root without snapping it off at the surface.
5. Avoid Overworking the Skin
Even though sugar is more forgiving that other types of hair removal, repeatedly going over the same area too many times can irritate the skin and increase the chance of hair breaking instead of being removed from the root.
- Don’t overapply sugar to the same area. If necessary, reapply the sugar paste after giving your skin a break or switch to a softer paste for sensitive areas.
6. Focus on Aftercare
Aftercare is key to preventing both breakage and ingrown hairs.
- Exfoliate regularly after sugaring, but wait 24-48 hours before your first exfoliation. Use a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells and keep hair follicles clear, preventing the hairs from becoming trapped beneath the skin.
- Moisturise the skin with a non-comedogenic, soothing moisturiser, like one containing aloe vera or jojoba oil, to keep the skin hydrated and calm any irritation. Avoid heavy oils that can clog pores and lead to ingrown hairs.
- Apply an antibacterial toner or witch hazel to prevent infections and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. Underarm toners are excellent for areas like the underarm and bikini line, as they also soothe irritation and balance the skin’s pH.
7. What to Do If Ingrown Hairs Happen
Even with the best technique, sometimes ingrown hairs still occur. Here’s how to deal with them:
- Gently exfoliate the area around the ingrown hair to help release it from beneath the skin.
- Use a warm compress to soften the skin and allow the hair to come to the surface.
- Avoid picking or squeezing at ingrown hairs, as this can lead to infection or scarring.
- Apply a natural serum with anti-inflammatory ingredients like tea tree or lavender oil to help soothe the area.
Final Thoughts
Sugaring is an effective, natural way to remove hair, but the key to preventing breakage and ingrown hairs lies in proper technique and aftercare. By using the right paste, prepping your skin, mastering the application method, and taking care of your skin post-treatment, you can enjoy smooth, hair-free skin without the worry of breakage or ingrowns.
