Sugar paste waxing is one of the most popular methods of hair removal. In contrast to the much harsher waxing, it is much gentler and yet produces almost the same effect. But how does it compare to permanent laser hair removal, both in terms of price and permanence of effects? That’s what we set out to find out here.
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If the idea of permanent hair removal doesn’t appeal to you and you want to be free of hair permanently, then go for laser hair removal. We even offer a discount on your first treatment in our salon – just take our quick quiz!
Sugar paste for hair removal versus laser hair removal. How do they work?
Laser epilation
Permanent laser hair removal uses an intense light beam of the same wavelength to target and destroy the hair follicles under the skin.
The laser device emits light energy that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair shaft. In doing so, it is converted into heat, the hair is heated rapidly up to the root of the hair, which is damaged by the heat energy and does not regenerate further or regenerates more slowly and less easily.
Traditionally, the process used to be most effective for people with darker hair and lighter skin, as the laser better targets the contrast between the hair and skin colour. However, high quality medical lasers are now able to treat a variety of skin and hair types and contrast no longer plays a large role.
The laser works best on hairs in the active growth phase, which is always only a portion of them. Multiple repetitions are therefore needed, each of which destroys a new "batch" of growing hairs.
Laser hair removal for men and women is equally effective and sought after.
Depilation with sugar paste
Sugaring, sometimes known by its English name, is a traditional hair removal method primarily used in Middle Eastern countries.
The sugar paste is a natural mixture of sugar, water, and lemon juice. This sticky, thick substance is applied to the skin against the direction of hair growth and then quickly removed in the direction of hair growth.
This process removes the hair along with its root, leaving the skin smoother for longer compared to traditional shaving, which only cuts the hair at the surface level.
Since the sugar paste is pulled off in the direction of hair growth, this treatment is considered gentler on the skin than traditional waxing, where the direction is reversed.
Sugaring is suitable for all skin types and hair types and can be used on most areas of the body without any issues.
Tip: Sugar wax recipe and how to make it
Cook the mixture in a saucepan at around 110-120°C (230-250°F), bringing it to a boil. It will foam and bubble a lot. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and turns a caramel color. Then, let it cool slightly and pour it into a prepared container. Be sure not to close the container until the mixture has completely cooled down.
Now you have your homemade sugar wax ready for future use. There are many detailed guides online on how to use this mixture for hair removal.
Price comparison: Laser hair removal vs. Sugaring
The price comparison between the two procedures can only be very general. Each salon offers different prices for a single session, and it’s also important to take into account that, despite its higher upfront cost, laser hair removal delivers longer-lasting results, whereas sugaring needs to be repeated regularly. In the long run, laser hair removal may end up being much cheaper.
However, if you’re interested in knowing specific figures, here’s what the average price for one session in the most commonly treated areas might look like in 2024 across most salons.
| Parts to be treated | Laser epilation | Sugar paste depilation |
| Armpits | 2000 CZK | 300 CZK |
| Bikini/groin area | 3000 CZK | 300-350 CZK |
| Full face | 5000 – 6000 CZK | 400-600 CZK |
| Full arms | 3500 CZK | 600 – 700 CZK |
| Full legs | 7000 – 10 000 CZK | 1000 CZK |
| Stomach | 3000 CZK | 400 CZK |
| Intimate areas | 2500 – 3000 CZK | 800 CZK |
| Buttocks | 3000 – 4000 CZK | 500 – 600 CZK |
Painfulness of laser hair removal and sugar paste hair removal
Does laser hair removal hurt?
As we mentioned, laser hair removal targets the hair with a concentrated beam of light that turns into heat and burns the hair. This process usually causes a slight stinging or pinching sensation. Otherwise, there are very few risks associated with laser hair removal.
However, pain is subjective and depends not only on the individual pain threshold but also on the type of laser used and the area being treated.
Modern laser systems are equipped with cooling mechanisms that minimize discomfort during the procedure.
The area can also be coated with a numbing cream beforehand. Overall, the pain is very mild and easily tolerable – certainly not a reason to avoid the procedure.
On the pain scale, most clients rate laser hair removal at 3 out of 10. A high-quality device or numbing gel can even reduce the sensation by another point. může ještě jeden bod ubrat.
Does sugar paste waxing hurt?
When waxing with sugar paste, the paste is pulled off with a sharp movement in the direction of hair growth. This is a less painful solution than traditional waxing. However, you will definitely feel the pulling off of the paste and depending on your pain threshold, it can be very uncomfortable.
On a subjective pain scale, people rate sugar paste waxing 4/10.
Brazilian sugaring? Which body areas are suitable for depilation and epilation
Laser hair removal
As for laser hair removal, it can be applied to any body area, including intimate parts. There are practically no limitations, except for general contraindications to the procedure. Typically, laser hair removal is not used to remove hair on the head, but only body hair.
Sugaring
Sugaring paste can also be used on most body areas. However, it is not recommended for very hairy areas or areas with very thick hair. In such cases, the depilation process is less effective and more time-consuming.
And although sugaring is generally considered a less painful alternative to waxing, treating some very sensitive areas, such as the genitals or nipples, can still be too painful and uncomfortable for some individuals.
Professional Brazilian sugaring is possible, but we recommend leaving it to experienced specialists in a salon.
How much time will you spend on both procedures?
Laser epilation
The duration of laser hair removal depends on the size of the area to be treated; smaller areas such as selected parts of the face or underarms may take only a few minutes or around 10-15 minutes, while larger areas such as the legs or back may require up to an hour. It is usually recommended to have 6-8 sessions for optimal results, with 4-6 weeks between sessions.
Sugar paste waxing
The time required for sugar paste hair removal also varies depending on the size and type of area being treated. Smaller areas can be treated in 15-30 minutes, while larger areas may require more time, usually up to an hour.
How long do sugar paste waxing and laser hair removal last?
Laser epilation
One of the most common questions about laser hair removal - how long does it last?
Laser hair removal gives you a long-lasting to permanent reduction in hair growth. After the recommended number of sessions (usually 6-8), the skin remains smooth for several years and sometimes the hair does not regrow at all.
Some people may need occasional maintenance treatments about once every one to two years to maintain results. Overall, however, the amount of hair visibly decreases and becomes finer after just a few sessions.
Sugar paste
Sugar paste waxing removes the hair and the bulb. Smooth skin can last from 3 to 6 weeks after the procedure, depending on individual hair growth.
However, compared to laser hair removal, sugar paste hair removal must be performed regularly, although with long-term repetition, the hairs may also become weaker and less likely to grow back. However, sugar waxing is not a permanent solution.
Is it possible to do laser hair removal or sugar waxing at home?
ou cannot perform laser hair removal at home. It requires a special medical-grade laser and trained personnel qualified to operate it.
There are at-home devices called IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) epilators designed for home use. However, these devices are less powerful, and improper use can pose several risks.
It’s important to carefully read the instructions and follow all safety precautions before using them at home. However, you won’t achieve the same results as professional laser hair removal.
Sugar waxing, on the other hand, can be done quite effectively at home. While it does require some practice and proper technique, it’s a relatively inexpensive and efficient method for quick hair removal, such as before a vacation. Plus, it’s gentler on the skin compared to other hair removal methods.
When it comes to laser hair removal or sugar waxing, trust the experiences and reviews of others before making a decision
When choosing between laser hair removal and sugar waxing, it’s important to consider the experiences of other clients who have undergone both procedures. Don’t forget to read reviews of different salons as well. First-hand information will give you valuable insight into the effectiveness of the treatments, comfort during the sessions, and the quality of services.
Make an informed choice!
Final evaluation of both methods
Sugar paste
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Relatively gentle method compared to other hair removal techniques | Slightly more painful, especially in sensitive areas |
| Sugar paste is natural and biodegradable | Hair removal at home requires some skill and technique |
| You can perform the procedure yourself at home | Cannot expect permanent results, and the procedure needs to be repeated |
| One session or DIY sugar waxing is cost-effective | |
| You can remove hair from most body areas |
Laser epilation
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Permanent solution for unwanted hair | Higher cost (but with permanent results) |
| Much less painful compared to other hair removal methods | Cannot be performed at home |
| Suitable for all body areas, including sensitive ones | |
| Best value for money in the long run | |
| Noticeable difference after just one treatment |
