Hot wax is often referred to as Hard wax and Strip wax as soft wax. So what is the difference? How do you know when to use Hard wax and when to use Strip wax? Does it matter? Below are the answers to these questions are more!
What is the difference between Hard and Soft wax?
First, the main difference between Hot (Hard) wax and Soft (Strip) is the way that the wax is applied and then removed. Hot wax is applied against the hair growth and then left to set and removed without the use of an epilating strip. Strip (Soft) wax is applied in the direction of the hair growth and then an epilating strip (muslin, pelon etc.) is placed over the wax, pressure is applied and then removed opposite to the hair growth, pulling the hair out. Both are effective ways to remove hair and allow for a smooth result. Additionally, Hard wax is heated to a temperature of approximately 60°C (140° F), it should be a thick honey consistency. Whereas Strip wax is heated to 70-75°C (158-167° F) and is a much runnier consistency. All of LYCON’s Strip waxes are considered low temperature and can be applied super thinly which results in less product usage and very economical.
When should you use Hard wax and when should you use Strip wax?
Strip wax is applied very thinly and can be removed quite quickly with practice. As a result, it is advisable to use the Strip wax in larger areas such as legs, arms, back and even the outer edges of the bikini (inner thighs). A good quality Strip wax should not cause skin drag or leave any sticky residue behind. Hard wax is excellent for more sensitive areas such as bikini, Brazilian, underarm and facial waxing. All of LYCON’s Hard waxes have added ingredients in them in order to further soothe the skin and reduce any redness from waxing. Hard wax can be applied in different size patches which allows for more precise waxing around tricky areas such as the eyebrows and the lips. Often waxes are designed with specific areas in mind, for example, LYCON’s Pinkini Hot wax is made for the Brazilian wax as it has added soothing ingredients in it such as Argan Oil and Chamomile for this extra sensitive area.
Do I need to use Pre/Post Products with both?
With all waxes, LYCON recommends using LYCOtane Cleanser before and after the wax to help cleanse the skin of any debris, make-up, or lotion on the skin. Waxing opens the hair follicle, so it is important to ensure the skin is clean prior to waxing. Immediately after the wax, applying the cleanser will help to close the hair follicle. Applying a Pre-Waxing Oil with Hot wax adds an additional barrier of moisture to the skin. It is not required to apply a Pre-Waxing Oil with LYCON’s Strip waxes; however it can be beneficial if the skin is extra dry and scaly. A little goes a long way! After the wax (both Hard and Strip waxing), applying and an aftercare product such as Tea Tree Soothe further soothes the skin and reduces any redness or inflammation.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Wax
It is important when choosing which waxes to have at your station that you consider all factors such as what areas you will be waxing most. Legs? Bikini? Eyebrow? Lip? Will you need both a Hard and Strip wax always heated? If yes, you will need to look at how big your wax station is and can it fit a duo heater or two singles. Being able to have both waxes available will allow you to tailor your services. However, ultimately the most important factor is that you are comfortable waxing with the type of wax chosen as this will make for the most comfortable waxing experience for you and your client.