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Sugaring vs. Waxing Hair Removal: What is the Difference and Which Works for You

Jump in and learn the main differences between sugaring and waxing, why one would be better for you, how the process works, and what to expect!

SugaringWaxing
side by side view of a leg being sugared and waxed

Sugaring with a smooth and silky finish. However, we get many questions about why one would choose waving over sugaring, and vice versa. With this guide, explore the sweet spot between sugaring and waxing in Toronto and uncover the subtle differences, from sugaring’s gentle touch to waxing’s quick results. We will go over the key differences between the two forms of hair removal, and by the end of this guide, you will know which method may be suited for you! Perfect for sensitive skin or those seeking lasting smoothness, our guide helps you choose the best method for a painless, cost-effective path to silky skin.

Sugaring vs. Waxing

First of all, both sugaring and waxing remove hair from the root whereas shaving only eliminates the hair at the surface of the skin. This is why you get longer-lasting results for up to 4 weeks compared to shaving, where you can feel the hair grow back as early as the very next day. Waxing is done by pulling the wax strip in the opposite direction of hair growth, which can impact the level of pain experienced during the procedure. Also, waxing and sugaring are semi-liquid and adjusted in the tiny pores of hair strands. It comes off when you pull the whole wax sheet, taking the little hairs from the hair strands. It makes waxing and sugaring a long-term solution.

When it comes to the differences, sugaring and waxing at our Toronto location are actually pretty similar, yet there are a few key distinctions between the two that may help you decide which service to book for. On the next section, we will discuss the features of both sugaring and waxing that make them unique!

Sugaring Features

One of the most asked questions we get is: what is sugaring product made up? And to most people’s surprise, it is only composed of Sugar, Lemon, and Water. It is a product with minimal ingredients and if you prefer natural products on your skin, this hair removal technique may be for you! Sugaring hair removal is known for being more effective for finer hairs and causing less breakage.

Another question we receive often is whether sugaring is painful or not. We find that pain is very subjective, and what is painful for some is not as painful for others. However, generally, sugaring is not as painful as waxing, and this is because sugaring is not as harsh of the skin as waxing may be. It is gentler exfoliant that does not adhere to the skin as strongly and does not remove as much dead skin as waxing normally does. The sugaring paste is made from 100% organic ingredients, making it a natural and hypoallergenic option.

Sugaring is also unique in its application process. With sugaring, the product is applied in a manner that is counterproductive to the growth of hair, and it is withdrawn in the same way.

We offer many sugaring services, and out of them all, the Brazilian Sugaring is one of our most popular services with the results last for up to a month. Like any hair removal services, sugaring can cause a few minor bumps and a little bit of irritation. To avoid this, make sure you follow the aftercare procedure! [link aftercare]

Because of the natural ingredients and the more rigorous application process, the sugaring services cost a little more than waxing. For instance, a Brazilian sugaring is around 10 dollars more expensive than a Brazilian wax.

Waxing Features

When it comes to our wax, we have it specially made in Toronto for all our Aroma Waxing and Laser Clinic locations and the two main ingredients featured are: beeswax and rosin. This wax is a cream wax product and is a combination of hard and soft wax. Although hard wax may be the most well-known form of wax that you may be exposed to, the issue with using hard wax alone is the product may not be strong enough to catch all types of hair, thick and thin, very well. Additionally, our cream wax, with removing hair, also removes a layer of dead skin cells. This is great to prevent ingrown hair and lets the next round of hair grow without irritation!

Brazilian waxing is one of the most sought-after services, providing a clean and smooth finish for up to four weeks.

Whether or not waxing is painful is a tough question to answer. There is a possibility that you may have varying degrees of pain, ranging from moderate to severe. Unlike sugaring, waxing can remove live skin cells along with hair, leading to irritation and pain. Irritation, pimples, and ingrown hairs are all potential adverse effects that might result from using this product if not properly cared for, and to avoid these, complying with important aftercare tips is crucial! [link aftercare]

When you receive a wax, you may expect the effects to last between three and four weeks, a lot longer than doing a simple shave. Costs vary based on the service that you are looking for, however compared to sugaring, waxing is a cheaper alternative!

Waxing on medication/skincare products

Although waxing and sugaring are great forms of hair removal for most people, there are still some exceptions. If you’re taking a particular medicine, you might have difficulty getting waxed. It would help if you did not consider waxing because it could cause an adverse reaction to the chemical and long-term effects. Both waxing and sugaring are effective methods for removing unwanted hair, but certain medications can cause adverse reactions. Here are any of the following medicines that may cause an adverse reaction after a wax:

Can you consider sugaring if you take medicine/use powerful skincare?

It is always to your advantage to discuss what your healthcare provider has to say about it with them.

For instance, waxing may be a method that may not be the most effective option in certain circumstances such as if you’re taking Retinol, where the removal of dead skin cells may leave the already sensitive skin more irritated. Therefore, they could suggest that you consume sugar. Both sugaring and waxing are popular hair removal techniques, but sugaring may be more suitable for those with sensitive skin or certain medical conditions.

The Pain of Waxing

Only the most superficial layer of skin is able to hold wax in place. Because of this, the pain caused by hard waxes is far less than the pain caused by soft waxes. However, with hard waxes, there tends to be greater breakage of the hair and uneven regrowth.

It may be somewhat painful when you get sugared or waxed for the first time. If you are scared, you can always try taking a Tylenol or Motrin a few hours before your appointment to help mediate the pain.

The pain does subside after the first time, and because your hair comes back in a different pattern than before (in a more uniform form of hair growth), your second session may not be as uncomfortable.

The Pain of Sugaring

When you sugar your skin, the sticky paste will not attach to your skin at all. Because it does not adhere to either dead skin cells or hair, it does not cause hair or skin to become damaged or irritated. This is why many individuals report feeling less pain when they consume sugar. The sugar paste used in sugaring does not adhere to live skin cells, which minimizes discomfort and trauma to the skin.

Tolerability of pain is the single most crucial factor. It may have a considerable influence on the kind of treatment as well as the reputation of the waxing clinic.

Wrapping It Up

Sugaring vs Waxing at Aroma Waxing and Laser Clinic Toronto are two complementary hair removal methods. There aren’t very many critical distinctions between the two, but the main difference is in the ingredients used to make the two products and the adherence level of the skin.

On one hand, sugaring won’t hurt nearly as much as waxing. On the other hand, sugaring is more expensive than waxing, because of the material itself.

Whether you want to try sugaring, waxing, or even both – don’t hesitate to drop by at Aroma Waxing and Laser Clinic in Toronto for an expert consultation if you have any further questions or if you would like to book an appointment with our professional technicians!

FAQs

What is the difference between waxing and sugaring?

Waxing involves applying warm wax to the skin and removing it quickly to pull out hair from the root. It can be effective but may cause irritation, especially on sensitive skin. Sugaring, using a natural paste, adheres to hair more than skin, making it gentler and potentially better for sensitive skin. Sugaring also removes hair in the direction of growth, which might reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.

How can I prepare for a waxing and sugaring session to get the best results?

To prepare for a waxing or sugaring session and achieve the best results, ensure your hair is at least 1/4 inch long so the wax can grip it effectively. Exfoliate the area gently a day or two before your appointment to remove dead skin cells but avoid exfoliating right before waxing to prevent skin irritation. Keep the skin clean and avoid using lotions or oils on the day of your session, as they can interfere with adherence.

What are the best ways to reduce discomfort during waxing or sugaring?

To reduce discomfort during waxing or sugaring, ensure your skin is clean and dry before the session. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever about 30 minutes prior can help ease pain if you are really scared or know that you have a lower pain tolerance. Breathing deeply and staying relaxed during the process can also minimize discomfort. After the session, applying a cool compress or aloe vera gel can soothe the skin and reduce any irritation or redness.

What are the disadvantages of sugaring?

Sugaring is generally safe, but some drawbacks include bruising which might occur due to user error. If applied safely by a professional, it has very minor chances of any side effect but if it is a very technical form of hair removal that is hard to be done by beginners. Another disadvantage of sugaring is that it usually is more time-consuming compared to waxing.

Does sugar wax damage skin?

Sugar waxing does not damage the skin if performed by a trained professional. In some cases, it might cause bruising or irritation it not applied properly.

How painful is sugaring?

The level of pain depends on your tolerance level and part of your body. It is usually less painful than waxing because the sugaring mixture doesn't stick to the skin.


I believe everyone deserves to feel smooth and confident and fabulous. Without exception! With the latest laser technology at the helm, we can now say, 'Yes, we've got you covered!' Well, uncovered, technically. Smooth skin for all, one zap at a time!

Mary Miljan, elegantly dressed in a white blouse, radiates the visionary spirit that propelled Aroma Waxing Clinic to the forefront of Toronto's spa scene
Mary M
Aroma Waxing & Laser Clinic Owner

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