Homemade hair removal cream is not a new concept. In fact, its history dates back to ancient Egypt, when a process called body sugaring (or sugaring) was discovered. Body sugaring has certainly withstood the test of time, as the same basic process is used today on men and women.

Body sugaring is similar in concept to hot wax, but doesn't have to be used hot, making the hair removal process more comfortable.

When compared to shaving, body sugaring has no risks of leaving cuts, and lasts much longer--an average of four to six weeks compared to one to two days. When hair growth resumes, it's much finer and sparser.

Removing hair at home is far less expensive than going to a salon or spa. The ingredients for body sugar can be bought at any grocery store for minimal cost and preparation of the cream is very simple.

Homemade body sugaring is a practical alternative for people who are sensitive to chemicals or have privacy issues that prevent them from visiting a salon.

There are several variations on body sugaring hair removal cream, but they all have a similar base.

The most basic recipe for body sugaring is 2 cups of sugar, 1/4 cup of water and 1/4 cup of lemon juice. Combine the ingredients and bring to a boil, then allow to cool in an airtight container.

Variations on the basic recipe include substituting lime juice for lemon juice and adding tree tea oil or molasses.

Just as there are variations on the recipe, there are variations on the method of using body sugar hair removal cream.

Basically, body sugar is used like hot wax: it's applied to the skin, the skin is pulled taut, and the body sugar is pulled off in the opposite direction. Variations come with the fact that body sugar can be used cold, at room temperature or slightly warm--it's up to the user to decide which is most comfortable and effective.

Some sources recommend that the area where hair needs to be removed be dusted with cornstarch prior to applying the body sugar. Others suggest sticking clean, dry strips of cloth over the body sugar to make pulling it off easier.

When using body sugaring for the first time, it works best on hair that's a quarter- to one-inch long.

The area where hair needs to be removed should be clean, dry and free of lotions. Do not use body sugaring on sunburned skin.

Body sugaring can be slightly uncomfortable to downright painful, depending on whom you ask. People who have a low tolerance for pain should take an aspirin or over-the-counter pain killer 30 to 45 minutes before the hair removal process.