Synthetic and natural wax for depilation: myths and truth

Waxing has long been an integral part of our lives. Today I want to tell you about what exactly the master puts in the wax, as well as about how synthetic wax differs from natural.

Based on the name, as well as due to stereotypes in society, we are used to believing that natural is always better than synthetic. But is this true when it comes to depilatory waxes? I suggest you consider the most popular myths about natural and synthetic waxes, and find out how things really are! :)

Myth #1. Natural waxes are better for skin

Fact: Pine waxes can cause skin irritation and allergies. Contrary to popular belief, there is a much greater chance of an allergic reaction after using natural wax than after depilation with synthetic wax.

To understand why, we should take a look at the main ingredient in wax, resin. This ingredient is the basis of all depilatory waxes. In the case of natural wax, wood resin - pine or spruce - is taken as the basis.

Unrefined resins are a fairly strong ingredient and can provoke various negative phenomena. The wood resin in wax is most commonly referred to as rosin. The cheaper the wax, the more likely it is to have a strong odor or a too dark color, which is usually what causes an allergic reaction. Synthetic waxes are much safer, as they do not contain natural resins, so there will be no allergic reaction.

Myth #2. Natural waxes are easier to use

Fact: Synthetic waxes are more maneuverable and the depilation process is less painful. Synthetic wax is quite plastic and does not create elastic threads. It is suitable for removing hair of any stiffness and length. It is applied with a spatula, regardless of the direction of hair growth, and can be removed without strips. Synthetic waxes provide increased maneuverability, which is ideal for brow design, for example.

Myth #3. The composition of natural wax is more clear

Fact: Tree resins are much less stable than synthetic ones. Natural waxes can vary greatly in quality as the wood resins used can vary depending on harvest time, drought and location. In the case of synthetic resins, it's always the same, as it's a stable formulated product, manufactured under strict quality control.

Myth number 4. The melting point of natural and synthetic wax is the same

Fact: Synthetic waxes melt at a lower temperature Synthetic film wax has a very low melting point, +38 degrees. Therefore, depilation with synthetic wax is recommended for people who find it difficult to tolerate temperature changes, or people with very sensitive skin. Synthetic wax smoothly “wraps” the hair, resulting in less skin damage during the depilation process.

Myth number 5. Natural waxes are more suitable for delicate skin

Fact: For sensitive areas such as the face and bikini, it is much better to use synthetic waxes. Depilation with synthetic wax causes much less redness, which is a very important advantage when depilating the mustache above the lip and eyebrows. But at the same time, synthetic waxes are also very strong, so it's ideal for Brazilian depilation.

Myth number 6. Synthetic and natural waxes look the same

Fact: Synthetic waxes are thinner Despite its very low melting point, synthetic waxes tend to be thinner in consistency.

Therefore, the thickness of its application can be varied. It can be applied even very thinly, still work effectively.

Waxes, which include natural resins, are usually applied in a thicker layer. If the wax is white, very light or generally transparent, then it is made of synthetic resin, because wood resin is never white.

Natural wax can change color from light yellow to dark brown, depending on how it has been processed. Very cheap natural wax will darken in the pot over time, and may also crystallize, giving the wax a curd-like appearance, upon subsequent heating.

Myth number 7. Synthetic and natural waxes smell the same

Fact: Synthetic waxes are easy to perfume, while natural waxes have a strong pine odor. Synthetic waxes have a less characteristic pine resin smell. And since it is easier to give it the desired smell, less perfumed fragrances will be required. And this, in turn, will reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

As you can see, the word "synthetics" does not always carry a negative connotation. I hope my information was useful to you, and now you will approach the issue of wax depilation as a real connoisseur! :) And if you want to get answers to some other questions that interest you, I will be happy to answer at our personal meeting. :)