How to Make a Homemade Sugaring Paste to Remove Hair

Unlike typical waxing, which can strip your skin of moisture and cause inflammation, dryness, or ingrown hairs, sugaring is a gentler, all-natural way to remove unwanted hair. Made from sugar, lemon juice, and water, sugaring paste is free of artificial ingredients and harsh chemicals, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Watch this video to learn how to make two types of sugaring wax: hard wax that you can flick off by hand and soft wax that you use with fabric strips. Both methods use the same basic ingredients and can be made on your stovetop in about 10 minutes.

You'll need:

• ¼ cup water

• ¼ cup lemon juice (or another citrus juice or vinegar)

• 1–2 cups granulated white sugar

• Pot

• Whisk

• Spatula or knife

• Fabric strips (cotton or other non-stretchy material)

• Jar or container for storage

Optional prep tips

• Cleanse skin thoroughly before waxing to prevent bacteria from entering open pores.

• Exfoliate gently to reduce the chance of ingrown hairs.

• Avoid oils or lotions beforehand — they'll prevent the wax from sticking.

• Trim long hair for easier removal and less discomfort.

• Test the wax temperature before applying to avoid burns.

Hard sugaring wax

Best for: Removing hair by hand (no strips needed).

Recipe:

• 2 cups sugar

• ¼ cup lemon juice

• ¼ cup water

Instructions:

1. Combine ingredients in a pot over medium heat.

2. Stir constantly until the mixture turns a rich golden brown (about 5–7 minutes).

3. Remove from heat and let it cool in a jar for ~20 minutes.

4. Once tacky, apply against hair growth, then flick off in the direction of growth.

You can also let the wax cool slightly longer and roll it into a ball for easier handling.

Soft sugaring wax

Best for: Use with fabric strips (easier and more consistent results).

Recipe:

• 1 cup sugar

• ¼ cup lemon juice

• ¼ cup water

Instructions:

1. Combine ingredients and bring to a boil over medium heat.

2. Cook until it turns a light honey color (about 5–7 minutes).

3. Let cool for ~15–20 minutes until thick but spreadable.

4. Apply against the direction of hair growth.

5. Press a fabric strip over the wax, then quickly pull it off with hair growth.

Aftercare and storage

• Apply pressure immediately after pulling to reduce swelling.

• Use aloe vera or other gentle skin-soothing products.

• Clean up residue with warm water — sugar wax is water-soluble.

• Store leftovers in a sealed jar for up to 3 months (fridge optional).

• Reheat gently in the microwave when ready to use again.

Sugaring can be used on legs, arms, underarms, face, and even the bikini area — just be sure to work in small sections and keep the skin taut to avoid bruising. If it's your first time, try the soft wax method on an easy area like your thigh before moving to more sensitive zones.