How Long Should You Grow Out Hair Before Waxing or Sugaring?
Blog BackTable of Contents:
- Why Does Hair Length Matter?
- Optimal Hair Length for Waxing or Sugaring
- How to Prepare for Waxing?
- What to Do If the Hair Is Too Long?
Waxing and sugaring are two popular hair removal methods that provide smoother skin for longer than shaving. To achieve the best results, properly preparing the hair is essential. Surprisingly, the length of the hair before waxing has a significant impact on the effectiveness and comfort of the treatment. So, how long should you grow out your hair, and why is length so important?
Why Does Hair Length Matter?
Waxing and sugaring require hair to be a specific length. This is crucial because wax and sugar paste grip the hair at the root and remove it along with the follicle. Hair that is too short won’t be fully grabbed, which reduces the effectiveness of the treatment and may leave some skin areas improperly waxed.
Optimal Hair Length for Waxing or Sugaring
The best hair length for waxing or sugaring is at least 0.5 cm (about 1/4 inch). This length allows the product to grip the hair effectively and ensures that the hair is removed at the root, resulting in a smooth finish that can last up to 2-3 weeks.
For those who previously shaved, the time needed to reach this length may be around 3-4 weeks after the last shave. Why so long? Hair grows in three phases: growth, shedding, and resting. Waiting around a month gives the chance for most hair to reach the same growth phase, meaning that during the waxing session, nearly all hairs will be removed at once. Ignoring this principle could lead to hairs of varying lengths, requiring more frequent waxing visits to maintain smoothness.
How to Prepare for Waxing?
Apart from hair length, there are several steps worth following to prepare the skin for waxing:
1. Exfoliate – A gentle exfoliation a day or two before the session will remove dead skin cells, making it easier for the product to grip the hair. This can also help prevent ingrown hairs.
2. Avoid Lotions and Oils – Avoid applying heavy lotions or oils on the skin just before the treatment, as they can reduce the grip of the wax or sugar paste.
3. Hydrate – Proper hydration affects hair elasticity, which can make the waxing session less painful. Make sure to drink enough water and use light, moisturizing lotions daily. However, avoid applying lotion right before the treatment.
4. Avoid Sun Exposure – For a few days before waxing, avoid sunbathing or using tanning beds. Sunburned or irritated skin may become more sensitive and prone to discomfort during the treatment.
What to Do If the Hair Is Too Long?
Hair longer than 1 cm can make waxing more painful, and the wax or paste may struggle to remove it properly. If you notice the hair is too long, you can trim it carefully to around 0.5 cm. However, be cautious to avoid cutting it too short.
