Waxing 101: What’s the Difference Between Soft Wax and Hard Wax?
For first-time waxers, the idea of having their hair pulled with a hot, sticky substance can be overwhelming. Hollywood has not helped erase these negative connotations thanks to the countless interpretations of waxing gone wrong in movies and TV shows. As estheticians and wax specialists, we have the responsibility of understanding the details of soft and hard waxes and knowing when to use them. This way, we can eliminate any preconceived conceptions first-time clients may have and show them the wonderful experience waxing can be. Soft wax has traditionally been the go-to in the spa industry. It requires a strip to remove the hair and we recommend for it to be applied thin on large areas. Once the wax hardens, it is carefully but firmly pulled from the skin, taking the wax and the hair with it. One of the main concerns people have when getting waxed with soft wax is the wax’s temperature when placed on the skin. Starpil soft waxes heat at low temperatures when used in our premium wax warmers, eliminating the concern of a client being burned. Soft waxes are considered more intense than hard waxes, but Starpil’s trusted soft wax formula is gentle on the skin and has been a timeless classic for over 30 years. The name ‘hard wax’ typically frightens new waxers to believe that the waxing will be painful. However, contrary to these assumptions, hard wax is often the best choice for people that have sensitive skin. Hard wax is applied in a thicker layer, and then hardens before its removed. Unlike soft wax, hard wax is removed without a strip. The wax is rapidly stripped off the skin, removing the hairs without sticking to the skin. Both our polymer and original-blend hard waxes are gentle on the skin and suitable for full-body waxing. Some of our estheticians prefer using hard wax for more delicate areas such as the upper lip and intimate areas. So, what’s the verdict? In terms of whether to choose hard or soft wax, it depends on what you’re looking for and your personal preference. If you’re waxing your arms or legs, it tends to be better to use soft wax because it is more efficient. But if you’re waxing more sensitive areas such as your upper lip or bikini area, hard wax is may more suitable.
