Waxing is one of the most common services that people seek from estheticians. Most, however, don’t know that there are different types of wax depending on your needs.
The differences between soft wax and hard wax are essential to understand. Estheticians have their preferences depending on the desired outcome.
We’re looking at the pros and cons of soft and hard wax today.
Let’s get started!
What are the benefits of soft wax?
Most people think about soft wax when they picture a waxing treatment. Unlike hard wax, soft wax sticks to the skin and the hair. When it’s removed, it requires a strip for the esthetician to pull. Along with the hair, the top layer of skin comes up, which might give you pause.
Done correctly, though, it’s a safe and efficient way to remove unwanted body hair.
Soft wax is good for covering surface area faster
Because of its texture, soft wax is good for covering larger body areas. Its smoother consistency easily grabs finer hairs on the arms, legs, and back. However, because it removes dead skin cells and the hair, you can’t usually re-treat the area to grab any missed hairs.
Also, estheticians can apply it at lower temperatures, making you less likely to experience burns. For full-body waxing treatments, soft wax is the workhorse of the industry.
Exfoliation is an added bonus when using soft wax
After experiencing a treatment with soft wax, you’ll have smoother, hair-free skin. Deeply exfoliating, this approach removes the top layer of skin and leaves glowing new skin cells behind. While some might say the pain of this process is more than they can handle, the benefits are clear.
Cost-effectiveness is a common benefit of soft wax
Of the two types of wax, soft wax is more affordable than hard wax. It’s easier to produce and is commonly used in salons and spas. While a hard wax treatment might cost $45 for a specific treatment, one using soft wax might cost $30 for the same treatment.
What are the benefits of hard wax?
Hard wax is becoming more and more common because it’s less painful than soft wax. It works well on most hair types and doesn’t require a fabric or paper strip to remove. Ideal for smaller areas, it’s many estheticians go-to for most waxing treatments.
Hard wax is good for those with sensitive skin
Hard wax doesn’t stick to the skin when applied. And, while it does require a higher temperature to work, it’s not so hot as to burn you. The heat actually helps open up the pores and relax the skin so that hair is easier to remove!
Because it doesn’t stick to the skin, it doesn’t remove as much of the top layer. You’ll still experience some exfoliation, but it’s on a surface level.
Stubborn hair is weak against hard wax
Stubborn pubic or armpit hair doesn’t stand a chance against hard wax. Because it’s easier on the skin, your esthetician can apply wax to any left behind after the first pass. You’ll have perfectly smooth skin without the irritation you’d get from soft wax.
The clean-up for hard wax is quick and easy
Hard wax doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue once removed. For hard wax to work, it doesn’t need to be as runny as some soft waxes are. Spills are much less likely, and cleanup is a snap!
How to determine which wax should you use?
Choosing the right wax for your aesthetic goals is essential. The right approach can make your session quick and easy. But the wrong one can make the experience painful and frustrating.
What area are you looking to target?
Larger body parts usually respond better to soft wax because it goes on smoother and faster than hard wax. Finer hairs and less sensitive skin react well to this method. However, you'll want hard wax for coarser hair or more sensitive skin, like the face or bikini line.
For many estheticians, the type of wax used for treatments like Brazilian waxing is a personal preference. Depending on their comfort with the materials and their experience, either type can work well.
What kind of hair do you have?
Finer hair types respond better to soft wax than coarse or pubic hair. And, because of the exfoliating power of this product, it’s better used on areas with finer hair.
Curly or coarse hair tends to respond better to hard wax. It's your only choice, especially if your esthetician needs to go back over an area. It’s a better choice for stubborn hair or sensitive skin.
What is your pain tolerance?
Your pain tolerance will be a factor in the kind of waxing services you seek. Soft wax can be far more painful when removed than hard wax. People with lower pain tolerances will usually have a better experience in the hands of an esthetician using hard wax.
Of course, you can always take ibuprofen before you head in for your session to help reduce your discomfort.
Enso is here to provide all the answers you need for waxing questions!
We here at Enso believe education is one of the most important factors in high-quality esthetic care. For insights into what kinds of treatments you should seek and which tools your esthetician should use, we’re here with the answers! We’re constantly researching new approaches to waxing care.
To learn more about the wide world of waxing services, check out our website today!
