Rose and Clove Hair Removing Sugar

Getting reviews...
THIS IS NOT EDIBLE. Sugaring is a popular method of hair removal in the Middle East, considered just as effective as, but less painful than, waxing. Here I've added in some cloves for their mild anesthetic action as well. This rose-infused sugar smells wonderful, is gentle on skin, and easy to apply and wash off afterwards.
  • Level: Easy
  • Total: 12 hr 45 min
  • Prep: 15 min
  • Inactive: 12 hr
  • Cook: 30 min
Share This Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Wash the rose petals, gently dab dry, and then chop them roughly. Layer the sugar with the chopped petals in a glass jar and leave in a cool, dark place overnight. After 12 to 24 hours, you will have a thick syrup filled with sugar crystals.
  2. Pour the rose-infused sugar syrup into a pan. Grind the cloves in a pestle and mortar and add to the mix. Heat for a few minutes over low heat until the sugar crystals melt and disappear - the syrup should be clear and take on the color of the petals.
  3. Add the lemon juice and continue to cook over low heat until the syrup thickens. Strain through a sieve into a second pan, discarding the petals. Heat until the syrup reduces, thickens and turns a dark caramel color, 20 minutes. Take off the heat and add the rosewater, if using, for scent. Bottle in a close-stoppered or sealed container, to stop moisture being absorbed or the sugar crystallizing. Alternatively, cool until lukewarm, then use at once.
  4. Use a wooden spreader or palette knife to apply a thin layer of lukewarm sugar (check it's not too hot by doing a small test patch first). Cover the sugared area with a cloth strip, pushing down firmly, then quickly pull the strip away in the opposite direction to the growth of hair. Repeat until all hair is removed. If the sugar cools and becomes too hard to use, gently heat again until lukewarm, then reapply. Wash the skin in lukewarm water after sugaring, to remove any residue.
  5. If you have sensitive skin, you can reduce irritation by applying a layer of sugar to skin, then pulling off in the direction of growth.
  6. Don't use on highly sensitive, broken or sunburned skin, in cases of eczema or psoriasis, or on hairs growing from moles or warts. Keep skin out of the sun for 24 hours afterwards.
  7. If bottled correctly, this will keep in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year.

Fudge Factor

Over-the-Top-Delicious Treats to Satisfy Your Food Obsession

Are you infatuated with ice cream? Do you lust over lobster? Swoon at the sight of chocolate? Here's the best recipe for each food …

The Craziest Chocolate Creations for American Chocolate Week Mar 17, 2013

It’s officially American Chocolate Week. Check out photos of mind-blowing chocolate creations.

Review: Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert's Chocolate Bar Nov 16, 2012

Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert have teamed up with master chocolatier Christopher Curtin to create the "Good & Evil" chocolate b …

Sifted: Plan-Ahead Valentine's Day Desserts Feb 6, 2013

By: Lauren Miyashiro

Get our take on the best in food news, recipes and more from around the web, including the best Valentine's Day recipes.

Train Frontman Pat Monahan's Dark Chocolate Obsession Feb 11, 2013

By: Cameron Curtis

Train frontman Pat Monahan, an avid chocolate lover, shared with us his top five reasons for eating dark chocolate.

Chocolate Desserts

Indulge in our decadent chocolate desserts, from cookies and cakes to puddings, souffles and truffles.

How to Chop and Melt Chocolate

Lots of recipes call for melted chocolate. Follow these step-by-step instructions to do it properly.