Sugaring typically lasts 3 to 6 weeks, depending on individual hair growth cycles, compared to shaving which lasts only 1 to 3 days before regrowth becomes noticeable.

For effective sugaring, hair should be about 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3 to 6 mm) long. This is about the length of a grain of rice. This length ensures that the sugar paste can properly adhere to the hair and remove it from the root. If the hair is too short, the paste may not grip well, and if it’s too long, it can be uncomfortable to remove and may break rather than pull out from the root. To get the best results, it’s recommended to wait until the hair reaches this length before your sugaring session. This ensures a smoother, longer-lasting finish and minimizes discomfort during the process.

Sugaring generally causes less pain than waxing because it uses a room-temperature paste and removes hair in the direction of growth. The sugar paste adheres only to hair and dead skin cells, which minimizes irritation. In contrast, waxing pulls hair out against its natural growth direction and often involves hot wax, which can increase discomfort. Additionally, waxing may cause more redness and irritation. Many people find sugaring to be a gentler, more comfortable option.