Hot vs. Cold Waxing: The Real Difference Between These Hair-Removal Methods

Show of hands: who really knows the difference between hot and cold wax? If they both achieve the same result of waxing—which is simply pulling hair from the follicle—then shouldn't they technically be the same?

Well, according to the experts we spoke to, it matters a whole lot. Depending on the kind of wax you're using to remove body hair, you could be expecting different levels of difficulty—even different results. That's not even to mention how each type of wax could be affecting your skin. So, if you're ready to learn more about hot vs. cold wax, keep reading!

What Is Hot Wax?

"Hot wax uses melted wax. It's warm to the touch and manually spread out on the skin. The wax is applied while still warm and spread evenly onto the skin," explains Jeanette Haylock. "If it is a soft hot wax, a strip is then laid and pressed on top of the wax. Hard hot wax hardens in place as the wax cools (no strip needed). The wax then molds onto the skin and grips at each hair strand. Whether soft or hard hot wax, it is then pulled out quickly, in the opposite direction of the hair growth." So if you've ever booked a waxing appointment, then it's likely hot wax was used.

What Is Cold Wax?

As for cold wax, it "works similarly, except it can be pre-measured, applied at lukewarm temperature or doesn't require a heat source (except for the rubbing of your hands), and can sometimes come prepared on a strip," says Shobha Tummala. If you wax at home, let's say with a product like Sally Hansen Hair Remover Wax Strip Kit ($6), then you're using cold wax since it doesn't require an outside heat source and it's already spread out evenly on thin strips.

What Are the Benefits of Cold Wax?

According to Tummala, the benefits of cold wax include better portability for traveling (because who's going to bring a wax melter and strips with them on vacation?). It's also generally less messy than hot wax since it comes pre-spread for your convenience. Edyta Jarosz agrees. "With ready-to-use strips, cold wax needs minimal preparation and can be used anywhere," she says. "You can even take it with you when traveling. In hot waxing, one has to manually apply the wax with the stick and then remove it using paper strips. Because of the mess and skill required in using hot wax, it is best left to the experts."

What's more, "you run the risk of getting wax burns with hot wax when opting for hot wax at some salons or by inexperienced specialists," Tummala explains. While this is avoidable by booking an appointment with a reputable salon, cold wax eliminates the possibility. Just don't think that cold wax is without its downsides. Jarosz says the potential for skin irritation is high. "Cold wax strips have to be applied over the same area multiple times to achieve the same result," Jarosz says. "When anyone receives a wax, the top layer of our epidermis gets naturally exfoliated during the waxing process. If you wax over an area multiple times, this can cause more skin to lift and exfoliate excessively. When this happens, you will feel and look like you got burned because you did."

What Are the Benefits of Hot Wax?

Hot wax, on the other hand, is better regarding precision. Because you or a professional has full control of the wax, you can shape it and spread it exactly how it needs to be to achieve the best results. Plus, according to Tummala, hot wax is better at removing shorter hair. "Hot wax adheres to the hairs stronger and more firmly than cold wax, which makes it more effective for removing shorter or finer hairs from the root." So if you don't want to wait as long in between waxing sessions, then hot wax might be the best option for you.

What Should You Choose—Hot or Cold Wax?

Generally speaking, hot wax is the way to go, since it's "able to spread more evenly than cold wax and firmly grips hairs pulling them from the root, giving clean and smoother results," says Tummala. "Cold wax often leaves hairs behind requiring repeated waxing over those areas." Haylock agrees, saying that "hot wax is significantly more effective than cold wax. As the hot wax cools, it grips around the hair tighter and removes more hair out in one pull." This, as we know from Jarosz, is important because if you're re-waxing the same area, it may result in red, irritated, and damaged skin, which is why hot wax can be safer and more effective for skin if you have coarse hair that requires multiple cold wax sheets to remove.

In general, though, weigh the benefits of each and decide which type of wax works best for you and your lifestyle. While the experts say hot wax is generally more effective, there's nothing wrong with using cold wax sheets if you prefer those. Just like with all things beauty, use whatever makes you feel most comfortable. Also, be sure to treat skin both pre- and post-wax. This can save from irritation and ingrown hairs.

How To Prepare Your Skin for a Hot or Cold Wax

"Prepping your skin before a wax is crucial to the overall outcome," Haylock says. "A deep cleanser with pH balancing qualities keeps your pores and hair follicles unclogged and free of debris. Also, chemically exfoliating your skin is an essential part of pre- and post-wax skincare. An all-natural chemical exfoliant (like glycolic acid) penetrates deep into the skin and kills bacteria, sebum, and buildup on and in the pores and follicles. These products also aid in the reduction of ingrown hairs and skin discoloration." She highly recommends Elate Skin Care, which produces quality vegan and cruelty-free skincare products.

How Should I Take Care of My Skin After a Hot or Cold Wax?

Tummala agrees that exfoliation is key to caring for your skin post-wax. "After waxing appointments, we highly recommend exfoliating daily, cleansing your skin using your Shobha Exfoliating Cloth," she says. "Use it daily with your favorite body wash or soap for smoother, softer skin, preventing the buildup of dead skin that can trap hairs. If you have existing bumps and ingrown hairs, add a topical treatment to your routine, like Shobha Ingrown Relief Lotion ($36). These products should be used consistently to see the best results. Over time, they can be used to prevent and treat ingrown hairs. For prevention and mild ingrowns, apply daily at night. For more severe ingrown cases, use twice daily, at night, and in the morning. For the best results, apply after showering when the skin is still moist to ensure optimal absorption of the lotion by the skin.