What is sugaring and how does it work?

Sugaring uses a paste made of just three ingredients: water, sugar, and lemon juice. The paste is applied against the hair and removed with a flick in the direction of hair growth, making it gentler than traditional waxing.

Can I get sugared if I'm pregnant?

Yes, you can be sugared while pregnant, but it may be more sensitive. However, I don't recommend trying sugaring for the first time right before your due date. You must wait at least 6 weeks after delivery before returning for services.

What if I have a contagious disease or outbreak?

If you're experiencing a contagious disease or outbreak (Shingles, HPV, Ringworm, Yeast Infection, COVID-19, etc.), please wait until you're better before booking. This protects both you and our studio.

I have sensitive skin. Can I still be sugared?

It depends on your unique skin. Sugaring can be a gentler alternative to waxing for sensitive skin, but I'll want to discuss this face-to-face to make sure it's right for you.

I've been on Accutane. Can I be sugared?

If you've been off Accutane for at least 3 months or have your doctor's consent, you can be sugared. Accutane can compromise skin, so timing matters.

How do I prepare for my appointment?

Come with clean skin and avoid sun exposure for 24 hours before your appointment. Exfoliate gently a day or two before to help the process go smoothly.

What should I do after my appointment?

Avoid hot water, tight clothing, and intense exercise for 24 hours after your service. Exfoliate gently a few days later to prevent ingrown hairs.

Can I get sugared while on my menstrual cycle?

Yes, you can be sugared during your period. You may notice increased sensitivity, so just let me know. You can wear a tampon or cup during the appointment.

What is the location and how do I reach you?

Groovy Complexions is located at 106 N Walnut St, inside House of Style in Columbia City, Indiana. Text or call (574) 213-9249 or email groovycomplexions@gmail.com to book.

What is your cancellation policy?

Please cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours before your appointment to avoid cancellation fees. I have a 5-minute grace period, but if you're running behind, please call so I can accommodate.

Sugaring

Is sugaring safe during pregnancy?

The reason sugaring is the preferred hair removal method for many pregnant clients is simple: there's nothing in the paste to worry about. Sugar, water, and lemon juice are all food-grade and don't penetrate the skin. Compare that to depilatory creams (which contain thioglycolates that absorb into skin) or some waxes (which contain synthetic resins, fragrances, and additives), and the safety case for sugaring during pregnancy is straightforward.

That said, pregnancy makes skin meaningfully more sensitive. Increased blood flow to the bikini area means swelling, more reactive nerve endings, and a lower pain threshold. A sugaring that felt fine in your second trimester last pregnancy may feel sharper this time — that's normal.

Most providers recommend sugaring after the first trimester, even though it's technically safe in trimester one. The reason is comfort: morning sickness, fatigue, and early hormonal shifts make a sensitive appointment feel worse. Many clients book their last pre-baby sugaring at 36-38 weeks, when it's most useful and still comfortable to lie on the table.

Late-pregnancy sugaring (37+ weeks) is genuinely common because many delivery rooms appreciate the easier visibility. Sugarists with experience in pregnancy work with side-lying or semi-reclined positions for clients who can't comfortably lie flat.

Confirm with your OB-GYN before your first sugaring during pregnancy. Most will green-light it without a second thought, but in high-risk pregnancies or those involving certain medications, your OB knows the specifics of your case.

Key facts

Sugar paste contains 3 ingredients: sugar, water, lemon juice. No synthetic chemicals.
Sugaring is generally OK in all trimesters but most comfortable in trimester 2-3.
Skin sensitivity increases noticeably during pregnancy, especially in the bikini area.
Many clients schedule their last pre-baby sugaring at 36-38 weeks.
Side-lying or semi-reclined positioning is standard for late-pregnancy clients.
Always confirm with your OB-GYN before your first prenatal sugaring.

Common follow-up questions

Is sugaring safe in the first trimester?

Technically yes, but most providers recommend waiting until trimester two for comfort reasons. There's no documented risk to the pregnancy from sugaring at any stage.

Can I get sugared right before delivery?

Yes — many clients book at 37-38 weeks specifically for this reason. Positioning may need to shift (side-lying, partial recline) but the procedure is unchanged.

What about after delivery — when can I sugar again?

Generally 6-8 weeks postpartum, after your six-week checkup gives the green light. The bikini area is healing during that window and shouldn't be touched.

Does pregnancy hair growth change how often I'll need to come in?

Often, yes. Pregnancy hormones can accelerate hair growth (and grow hair in new places — face, abdomen, around the nipples). These usually shed back to baseline within 6 months postpartum, but during pregnancy you may want to come in slightly more often.

When this doesn’t apply

High-risk pregnancies, pregnancies involving heparin or blood-thinner therapy, and any pregnancy with a doctor-issued bedrest order should clear sugaring with the OB first. Sugaring is not advised within 48 hours of induction or scheduled C-section.

Sources

Last reviewed: 2026-04-30 · Makaela, Licensed Esthetician

Have questions about your skin or your hair-removal routine? Book a 60-minute custom facial or come in for a sugaring appointment — Makaela works through anything you bring her.

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