Manuka Honey vs Sugar Which Is Better for Hair Removal?

Introduction

Social media is flooded with DIY beauty hacks, and one popular trend is using honey for hair removal. Many people claim that honey waxing can permanently remove facial hair. But is it worth the mess and the hype? We spoke to skincare experts to get their honest opinion on using honey for hair removal. In this article, we will explore whether honey waxing has permanent results, where it works best, how to DIY honey wax, safety considerations, and alternative natural hair removal methods.

Does Waxing with Honey Have Permanent Results?

Let’s address the primary concern first – honey waxing, like any other waxing method, does not permanently remove hair. According to Ashley Anderson, an esthetician and co-owner of Skin Deep Naples, honey is effective for removing facial hair to some extent but does not destroy the hair follicle. To permanently remove the hair follicle, energy-based treatments such as lasers or IPL are required. It’s important to note that even laser hair removal is not completely permanent and may require yearly touch-ups.

Where Does Waxing with Honey Work Best?

Facial hair differs from the hair on the rest of our body, and there are two types of hair follicles – vellus hairs and terminal follicles. Vellus hairs are thinner and fuzzier, while terminal follicles are longer, thicker, and have deeper roots. According to board-certified dermatologist Stacy Chimeno, honey can be effective for facial hair removal due to its beneficial properties. Honey is full of antioxidants, soothing to the skin, acts as an emollient and humectant, and has antibacterial properties. However, it’s crucial to perform waxing techniques correctly to avoid discomfort or damage to the sensitive facial skin.

How to DIY Honey Wax

If you want to try honey waxing at home, it’s simple to make your own honey wax. Preeti Joshi, a lead esthetician and master waxer, suggests the following recipe:

1. Combine one part lemon juice to four parts honey (e.g., one tablespoon lemon juice to four tablespoons honey) in a pot on the stove and heat until warm.
2. Optionally, add some sugar to act as an extra binding agent.
3. Let the mixture cool slightly and test it on the inside of your wrist to ensure a comfortable temperature.
4. Using a wooden popsicle stick, apply a small amount of the honey mixture to the area you want to wax and let it dry for 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Wipe off the dried honey with a damp, warm washcloth instead of using strips.
6. Rinse the area to remove any leftover residue and follow with a moisturizer.

Safety Considerations

Before attempting any DIY beauty treatment, it’s essential to take proper safety precautions. Start by exfoliating the area to be waxed to remove dead skin cells. Patch test the honey mixture on a small area of your skin to ensure it doesn’t cause any adverse reactions. If the mixture is too hot, it can burn your skin, so it’s crucial to wait until it cools to a comfortable temperature before applying. After hair removal, your skin may be sensitive, so use a soothing serum to prevent ingrown hairs and redness.

Natural Hair Removal Alternatives

If honey waxing isn’t your preferred method, there are other natural hair removal alternatives you can consider. Sugaring is a popular choice recommended by skincare experts. It involves creating a paste of cooked sugar, water, and lemon, which is molded into a ball and kneaded into the hair to remove it. Sugaring is less sticky than traditional waxing, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It also adheres primarily to dead skin cells and can be performed at a lower temperature, making the process more comfortable.

Another alternative to honey waxing is using turmeric. Turmeric paste is gaining popularity for hair removal. To create the paste, combine a few tablespoons of milk with a few tablespoons of turmeric. Apply the paste to the desired area, leave it on for 20 minutes, and gently remove it by rubbing a warm washcloth in circular motions. Turmeric paste not only removes hair but also provides skin-brightening benefits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, DIY honey waxing can be a viable option for removing unwanted facial hair, but it’s important to remember that it is not a permanent solution. Honey waxing does not destroy the hair follicle, so hair will eventually grow back. It’s crucial to perform the waxing technique correctly and take safety precautions to avoid discomfort or skin damage. If honey waxing doesn’t appeal to you, alternative natural hair removal methods like sugaring or turmeric paste can also be effective. Ultimately, the choice between Manuka honey and sugar for hair removal depends on personal preference and skin sensitivity.