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Hard Wax vs. Soft Wax | The Complete Guide for Beginners
Learning how to use wax can be challenging, regardless of the type you choose. There's a lot to consider - from understanding hair growth patterns to mastering techniques for those tricky spots. And then comes the big question: hard wax vs soft wax- which one is right for you?
At Nova Wax, we're experts in both hard and soft wax. We understand the importance of choosing the right product for your needs. That's why we're here to break down the differences between these two wax types.
Whether you're new to waxing or looking to refine your technique, this guide will help you understand the unique benefits of hard wax and soft wax. Keep reading to discover which Nova Wax product might be perfect for your smooth skin journey!
Table of Contents
What is Hard Wax?
Hard wax is a type of wax that is formulated to set and harden upon contact with the skin. Unlike soft wax, which remains tacky and pliable, hard wax changes in texture when it adheres to the hair. This now-hardened texture allows for removal without the use of waxing strips.
Hard wax is considered to be less painful than soft wax because it only adheres to the hair, whereas soft wax adheres to the hair and skin. For this reason, you can do another pass over the skin when you’re using hard wax if you miss hairs the first time.
Hard wax is also unique because it doesn’t require any cloth or muslin strips for hair removal. It comes in two forms, hard wax beads andhard wax tablets. Hard wax beads, particularly hard wax microbeads are known for their ability to melt down especially quickly.
When it comes to melting hard wax in your warmer, the user would portion out and pour hard wax beads (or place tablets) directly into the warmer to melt down. This deviates from that of soft wax, where the entire tin containing the wax is inserted into the warmer.
READ:How to Use Hard Wax
Where Can Hard Wax Be Used?
In general, hard wax is ideal for thicker and coarser hair, like body hair. Since hard wax is easier to use on large surface areas and requires less supplies, it is great for arm waxes, leg waxes, bikini waxes, etc.
Hard wax is also great for use on sensitive skin since it doesn’t stick to the skin and only sticks to the hair, which lessens irritation or inflammation.
Many people prefer using soft wax on facial hair and softer finer hair, but our unique Nova Wax hard wax formula can be used effectively anywhere on the body, face included. It’s hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, rosin-free makeup also ensures it’s sensitive-skin friendly and effective on all skin types.
Read:Why Choose Nova Wax?
How to Wax Using Hard Wax
There are many steps involved in waxing using hard wax, and it can be overwhelming to acquire all the supplies needed. At Nova Wax, we have special waxing kits that contain everything you need to relieve that stress!
Before you start waxing, you want to make sure you have a clean workspace. After you’ve done that, you can start the waxing process as follows:
- Heat your hard wax. To make sure the temperature isn’t too hot, always test by applying it on your inner wrist before application! To start, turn the warmer to the highest level until the wax melts.
- Once wax is melted, turn the warmer to the temperature indicated on your hard wax formula’s bag. Allow it to reach the desired consistency indicated on your formula’s bag before performing the service. Then, throughout the service monitor the temperature consistently.
- Clean the service area using Nova pre-wax cleanser and cotton rounds. Make sure the area is completely dry before beginning hard wax application. Apply a test wax strip to your wrist prior to applying to the application area to ensure the wax is the right consistency and at the right temperature.
- Assess the direction of hair growth on the area being waxed. When applying the wax, always apply the hard wax strip in the same direction as the hair growth.
- Monitor your hard wax consistency, if your hard wax is honey-like then you’re good to go.
- Dip your spatula into the wax and apply in the same direction of hair growth, spreading the wax evenly and at a good pace with firm consistent pressure.
- Create a lip (edge) at the end of your hard wax strip. This is where you should begin your hard wax pull from and it should be at the opposite end from where you first applied the strip. For example, if you’re waxing somebody’s lower forearm and their hair grows downwards from the elbow, the strip will be applied beginning at the elbow, and the pulling edge will be closer to the wrist.
- Hold the skin taut and grab the lip. Pull parallel to the skin in one swift motion until the strip is fully removed.
- Repeat this process over the service area.
- Clean remaining hard wax residue withNova’s post-wax oil and seal in fresh results withNova’s hydrating post-wax lotion.
It’s important to remember that learning any new waxing technique takes time and patience.
Don’t get discouraged if you’re not getting the results you want at first and keep practicing. Remember, practice makes perfect. You’ll be a pro before you know it!
Watch Nova Wax founder Liz Lugo give a quick demo on how to get the perfect hard wax consistency.
READ:The Complete Brazilian Wax Guide
What is Soft Wax?
Soft wax is the original formula most people think of when they think of waxing! It requires strips for removal and is typically easier to learn than hard wax. This is a more traditional formula, but is still a go-to for professionals who love it and for students or beginners.
When using soft wax it’s important to stay extra cautious about where you remove your strips from. Since soft wax stays sticky and adheres to the skin, only one pass can be made in each area.
When applied, soft wax adheres to both the hair and skin, which can make it more uncomfortable to use than hard wax, which only adheres to hair. If you make more than one pass with soft wax, you’re at risk of compromising the skin below or causing bleeding, skin lifting, or possible burns.
Soft wax comes in can form, instead of bead and tablet form like hard wax. To heat soft wax, you’ll remove the lid from your can and insert the can directly into your warmer to heat.
READ:Waxing in the Winter - Tips and Benefits
Where Can Soft Wax Be Used?
Soft wax works great for thin fine hair, though it can be used for a variety of hair types. Typically, soft wax is the preferred method for facial waxing like eyebrow waxing and upper lip waxing.
Soft wax is ideal for waxing small areas because its consistency makes it extra pliable and spreadable. With hard wax, a lip has to be created which can get tedious in little crevices like those found on the face. We recommend usingsmall applicatorsfor hard-to-reach areas.
Soft wax, however, can also be very useful for those waxing large areas or those starting out due to its slow setting time and its ability to remain sticky and pliable.
READ:How to Use Roll-On Wax: A Beginner’s Guide
How To Wax Using Soft Wax
Before using soft wax, it’s important to make sure all of your supplies are accessible! To wax using soft wax you need a wax warmer, spatulas, wax strips, and pre & post care supplies. All of these things are included with our amazingsoft wax kit.
- Plug in and turn on your soft wax warmer.
- Place your wax in the warmer and ensure that the lid is shut.
- Set wax warmer to 90 degrees Celsius.
- Once the wax is fully melted, stir occasionally before lowering the temperature to 70-75 degrees Celsius.
- Wait for the green indicator light to turn off then stir wax again.
- The wax should be a honey-like consistency; apply a strip on the inner part of your wrist to gauge the consistency/temperature.
- Adjust accordingly if it’s not ideal.
- Prep clients' skin usingNova Pre-wax cleanser and make sure it is fully dry.
- Apply a thin layer of soft wax to the service area in the direction of hair growth with a spatula.
- Place a wax strip in the same direction as the wax application, pressing firmly into the skin.
- Grab the wax strip from the opposite direction that you placed it at the bottom and hold the skin taught below where you’re holding onto the strip.
- Pull parallel to the skin and apply pressure to the newly exposed area with your palm.
- Repeat this process over the service area until all hair is removed and applyNova aftercare products.
- Turn off and unplug your wax warmer.
Deciding Between Hard Wax and Soft Wax
Choosing between using hard wax or soft wax for your waxing services can seem a bit daunting, but it all comes down to preference and what you prefer to work with in the end.
One of the first things you should consider is your experience level. If you’re new to waxing, soft wax might be a little easier because it doesn’t require as much technique.
The second thing you should consider is the type of skin you’re waxing and whether it’s sensitive or not. If you’re waxing yourself or a client with sensitive skin, hard wax is typically better.
A third thing to consider when deciding between using hard wax and using soft wax is the part of the body you’re servicing.
Hard wax is good for waxing large areas or areas with coarser hair, such as arm, leg, and bikini waxes, whereas soft wax is good for finer hair and services like face waxing, including eyebrow waxes and upper lip waxes.
Taking the time to experiment with both hard and soft waxes is a good way to discover which method you prefer. Both methods are effective at removing hair and providing smooth silky results that last.
If you’d like to try out both and see which you prefer, we offer abundle with both soft and hard wax to help you make your decision.
Read:Waxing at Home for Beginners
Final Thoughts
Hard wax and soft wax are two hair removal methods with different properties and uses, and both find their strengths in different areas.
Hard wax hardens upon application, requires no strips for removal, and only adheres to the hair instead of both the hair and skin. Conversely, soft wax stays sticky and soft even after application, does require strips for removal, and adheres to both the hair and skin.
Hard wax is good for those with sensitive skin and good for waxing larger areas with coarser hair.Soft wax, on the other hand, is good for finer smaller hairs and ideal for precision removal.
Whichever wax you prefer, Nova Wax has you covered with supplies, tips, and tricks for effective waxing!
