Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sugaring?

Sugaring is a gentle and effective way to remove unwanted hair using a sticky paste similar in colour and consistency to honey. It is applied to the skin warm NOT HOT and either removed by hand with a flicking motion or using fabric strips.

Is it like Waxing?

There are two sugaring techniques and they are often used together to achieve the best possible results. Both techniques start with a ball of warm sugar paste smoothed onto the area to be treated.

The strip technique, similar to conventional waxing, is where a fabric strip is applied over the paste and then removed in one short, sharp movement, taking the paste and hairs with it.

The hand sugaring technique is where sugaring differs from waxing as the ball of paste is removed by hand using a flicking action, taking any hairs trapped in the paste with it. Great for getting all the little hairs left behind by the strip method as the same area can be treated over again using one ball of paste.

Most people who have tried both say that they prefer sugaring. The facts are:

• Sugaring removes more hairs than waxing as the therapist is able to go over the same area more than once
• There is less chance of an allergic reaction as the sugar paste contains no nasty chemicals, it is simply sugar, water and lemon juice
• It does not stain or ruin clothes
• You can shower or bathe the same day

Is it painful?

Everybody’s pain threshold is different. Most people claim that it’s less painful than other hair removal methods and could be compared to a sticking plaster being removed or a slap with a ruler! Some clients take a pain killer an hour before their appointment as they feel it helps but most people find that they experience little or no pain. However, you may experience increased sensitivity if you have a hang over or a high caffeine intake.

How long does my hair have to be?

It's recommended that hair be at least 10mm long to achieve the best results. Hair as short as 5mm can be removed but this is dependent on the treatment area and previous hair removal method. Hair removed for the first time, maybe more resistant, especially after shaving for many years.

Is it OK to use other hair removal methods as well?

This is not recommended, as other treatments can damage the hair follicle. Also other treatments can be counter productive and reduce the effects of sugaring. As with all hair removal methods it is best to stick to only one and not mix and match.

How often do I have to be sugared?

This is dependent on the individual and area treated. A rough guide is 4-6 weeks between appointments. The more treatments, the less you have to come back over time. When you visit I will be able to give a clearer guide. Regularly moisturising and exfoliating your skin between sugaring treatments is just as important as the treatment itself. You will receive the best results if your skin is healthy.

Will I suffer a bad reaction?

Everyone is different and what affects one person may not affect another. Nobody can guarantee that any treatment will not cause a bad reaction but due to the fact that sugar paste only contains natural ingredients and no chemicals it is less likely to be the cause of any reaction. However, you are welcome to have a free test patch done if you are concerned. Almost all clients report that any redness of the skin following a sugaring treatment usually disappears within a few hours.

Will I get ingrowing hairs?

There are no guarantees but certain measures you can take will help to prevent them:

• Avoid wearing tight clothing where possible, certainly for the first day after your treatment
• Regularly exfoliate your skin - twice a week is recommended. Exfoliating mitts are available to purchase when you come for your appointment
• Moisturise daily with a good moisturiser. This will help keep skin soft and allow hair to grow through the skin’s surface more easily

Are there any conditions that would prevent me from being sugared?

• If you are taking Roaccutane or are diabetic you must check with your doctor before booking a Sugaring treatment
• Contagious skin conditions will prevent us from sugaring the affected area until the condition has completely cleared
• We are also unable to remove hair from skin that is sunburnt, chafed or broken, or from skin that has been treated with steroid creams, Retin-A, Differin or other retinoid acne products within the last 3 months