How to Minimize Pain During Your Sugaring Appointment
Sugaring is one of the gentlest forms of hair removal, but any time hair is removed from the root, you’ll feel something. At Sweet & Refined in Calgary, we want every appointment to be as comfortable as possible. With the right prep and aftercare, you can dramatically reduce discomfort and enjoy smoother, softer skin.
Before Your Appointment
1. Time It Right
Skin is more sensitive right before and during your period. For best comfort, try booking mid-cycle.
2. Exfoliate 48–72 Hours Before
Gently exfoliate two to three days before your appointment to clear dead skin cells. Avoid exfoliating on the same day to prevent extra sensitivity.
3. Maintain Skin Health Between Visits
Hydrated, exfoliated skin is less prone to ingrown hairs and responds better to sugaring. Keep up with moisturizing and light exfoliation between sessions.
4. Stay Cool
Avoid arriving overheated from the gym, hot yoga, or outdoor activity. Heat and sweat make sugaring more uncomfortable. Wear light layers (remove bulky sweaters), and we’ll keep you cool with a fan if needed.
5. Arrive Clean, No Products
Lotions, oils, and deodorants (especially waxy ones) can block the sugar from gripping hair. Even after showering, some residue can linger—come freshly cleansed and product-free.
6. Be Well Rested & Hydrated
Being tired, hungover, or dehydrated makes you extra sensitive. Drink water and get good rest before your appointment.
During Your Appointment
7. Relax & Breathe
Tension makes everything hurt more. Focus on slow breathing and relaxing the area being sugared. Your sugarist will help by gently stretching the skin.
Optional Comfort Measures
8. Over-the-Counter Relief
If you’re very sensitive, you may take ibuprofen 30 minutes beforehand (check with your doctor first).
9. Numbing Cream (Optional)
We retail a safe, effective numbing cream, also available at pharmacies. Apply it 30 minutes before your session, then cleanse thoroughly so no residue remains—otherwise, the sugar can’t adhere to the hair properly.
Consistency Matters
10. Keep Regular Appointments
The more consistently you sugar, the finer and softer the regrowth. Over time, each appointment feels easier.
Aftercare Counts
Proper aftercare reduces irritation and prevents ingrown hairs:
- Moisturize smart: Use a water-based moisturizer daily. After showers, seal hydration with a bikini oil or cream while skin is still damp.
- Exfoliate regularly: Use a dry brush, exfoliating gloves, or a micro-scrub that doesn’t dissolve. Gentle chemical exfoliants (salicylic, glycolic, or AHAs) also help.
- Avoid irritants for 24–48 hours: Skip gym workouts, saunas, hot tubs, swimming pools, lakes, and anything sweaty or dirty. Stay away from chlorine, bacteria, or harsh fragrances.
- Wear breathable fabrics: Loose cotton is best until redness or sensitivity calms.
Final Thoughts
Sugaring should get easier and more comfortable each time you return. By staying cool, rested, and hydrated—and by following prep and aftercare tips—you’ll minimize pain, prevent ingrowns, and enjoy the smoothest results possible with your Calgary body sugaring at Sweet & Refined.