Using Wax for Hair Removal at Home

Do you know about the different types of wax for hair removal? Let’s face it, body hair is part of being human, whether we like it or not. However, if we don’t care for ours, we can definitely use different methods to get rid of it. To me, waxing is the ideal option if you want your results to endure for weeks without stubble. If you’re a DIY kind of girl like me who prefers to save money and time, at-home hair removal may be the way to go. Waxing removes hair from the follicle leaving behind smooth hair-free skin.

Waxing is uncomfortable enough on its own, so choosing which kind of wax to use for hair removal is important. Waxes aren’t all made equal, but they’re all designed to eliminate hair in some way. It is simply a bit tricky to know which one to use for what. In a specific region, what kind of wax should you use? I’m going through some of the options for you below.

Soft and warm wax

Soft and warm wax is a cream or resin-based strip wax gently applied to the skin in a thin layer. You can remove the hairs using a cotton strip that is pushed on and pulled. You can cover larger regions, such as the legs and arms, with this spreadable wax. Soft wax, although very effective at taking up even fine hairs, clings to the skin and should only be used once per region.

Hard and warm wax

You may use hard wax on regions with thicker hair as well as fine, sparse hair. Warm wax is applied, and as it cools, it solidifies. It is also known as strip-free wax since, once set, it functions like a strip. As the wax solidifies, it shrink-wraps around the hairs rather than adhering to the skin as soft wax does. As a result, it is better for smaller, more delicate regions like the lip, nose, underarms, and bikini line. 

Soft and cold wax

Cold wax may be applied directly to the skin straight from the pot or used as a strip. Many people prefer this technique because it removes the danger of burning your skin with overheated wax. It is more convenient, but it’s also stiffer, and applying a slight uniform coating may be difficult. It isn’t always as effective as heated wax and may leave hairs stuck to the skin. Some people like to gently reheat the wax before softening the mixture and making it easier to apply.

Ready-made wax strips

The appropriate quantity of cold soft wax is already on the pre-waxed strips, ready to use. This technique is suggested for beginners since it is the most user-friendly and mess-free. They are not only simple to use, but they also eliminate the risk of applying too much product. Depending on how much hair you’re removing, a strip may frequently be used more than once per region. Cold strips need the least amount of preparation making them the most convenient choice for travel. There is no danger of burning your skin while using cold wax. Because pre-made strips aren’t as spreadable as heated wax, I recommend using them for smaller areas.

Sugar wax

Sugar wax, which originated in the Middle East, is one of the earliest known waxing techniques. It also has a straightforward recipe, usually consisting of sugar, lemon, and hot water. Because it is so mild, it is perfect for sensitive and reactive skin. Sugar wax is a sticky ball that can be applied with fingers or as a soft wax with strips. Sugaring is most effective on fine to medium hair types. Sugar wax, unlike resin-based hard or soft wax, is water-soluble, making cleanup a breeze. There will be fewer ingrown hairs because the substance won’t become caught in open hair follicles and impede hair renewal.

Fruit wax

Fruit wax is similar to hard wax, but it contains fruit enzymes and extracts such as papaya, strawberry, pomegranate, and plum, which provide additional skin benefits. While removing hair, the mild wax feeds the skin with antioxidants and vitamins, effectively serving as skincare (a win in my book). Fruit wax is usually a good choice for people with sensitive skin since it doesn’t create bumps, rashes, or marks, but be sure you’re not allergic to any of the components before using it. A fruit wax will cost a bit more than a basic resin-based alternative.

Chocolate wax

Chocolate wax is one of the least painful kinds of wax since it is gentle on the skin. It is moisturizing, with components including almond oil and sunflower oil that contains vitamin E. Cocoa is an antioxidant-rich ingredient that also serves as an emollient in wax. It has anti-inflammatory qualities, which come in handy when you pull hairs out of their follicles. The luxury experience comes at a cost, but the radiant skin and spa-like pleasure are well worth it for many people.

My Personal Preference and Tips

My personal preference is to use a wax warmer with hard wax. If it’s your first time using wax at home for hair removal, I recommend picking up a kit like the one shown below from Gigi. It has everything you need to get started and will last for a very very long time. When you’re ready for more wax or supplies then you can purchase them separately.

• Set aside enough time to get the job done so that you’re not feeling rushed.
• Don’t do your waxing right before heading out to the beach or pool as you may have some redness that takes a few hours to settle down. You also probably don’t want salt water on your freshly waxed skin because it may sting and cause irritation.
• Don’t get the wax too hot or you can burn your skin.
• Pull the hardened wax off in one swift movement. Immediately afterward, press your hand on the waxed spot for about 20 seconds. It seems to help take the sting away of there is any.

So there we have it, a summary of the different types of wax for hair removal that are available to use at home. Let me know if you’ve ever tried any of them.