In the quest for smooth, hair-free skin, two contestants stand tall above the rest—waxing and laser hair removal. Both promise the allure of silky skin, but how do they stack up against each other?
In this blog, we’ll delve into a comparison of waxing and laser hair removal, evaluating each method’s effectiveness, cost, results, and more. Our goal? To help you make an informed decision for your skin.
Waxing is a hair removal method that involves spreading a thin layer of wax over the skin in the direction of hair growth. A cloth or paper strip is then pressed on top and ripped off with a quick movement against the direction of hair growth.
This uproots the hair from the follicle, leaving the skin smooth. Since the hair is removed from the root, it takes longer for it to grow back, typically three to four weeks. The process can be somewhat painful, and the treated skin can be red and sensitive for a few hours post-treatment.
Laser hair removal uses a concentrated beam of light to remove unwanted hair. The laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair and gets converted to heat, which damages the tube-shaped sacs within the skin (hair follicles) that produce hairs. This damage inhibits (or at least delays) future hair growth.
Although laser hair removal effectively slows hair growth, it does not guarantee permanent hair removal. It typically takes several laser hair removal treatments to achieve long-term results. Periodic maintenance treatments are often necessary as well.
Waxing offers several notable benefits. For one, when the hair eventually grows back, it’s often softer and less noticeable compared to the stubbly regrowth often seen with shaving methods. Waxing also exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells, leaving it more smooth and rejuvenated.
Over time, regular waxing may even lead to thinner and less dense hair regrowth, which is another advantage for those seeking long-term hair reduction.
Laser hair removal offers a multitude of benefits that have made it a popular choice for many. Foremost among these is the long-term nature of the treatment’s results.
Over time, many individuals find that their hair grows back lighter and less frequently, with some even achieving permanent hair loss in their treated areas. Laser hair removal is also a precise method with the ability to target dark, coarse hair while leaving the surrounding skin undamaged.
The process is quick, with each pulse of the laser lasting for a fraction of a second and treating many hairs at once. Laser hair removal’s impressive results can also save you from having to repeatedly shave or wax.
Waxing, while effective for short-term hair removal, carries several side effects. First and foremost, it can cause temporary redness, irritation, and swelling in the treated area(s), especially for those with sensitive skin. This is due to the abrupt removal of the hair from the follicles.
Another potential side effect is the emergence of ingrown hairs, which can occur when the hair grows back and curls into the skin instead of rising up from it. In severe cases, waxing can also lead to skin infections if not performed under hygienic conditions.
Lastly, repeated waxing can result in skin discoloration or changes in skin texture.
While laser hair removal is widely regarded as a safe procedure, it does come with potential side effects. Immediately following their treatment, some people experience minor skin irritation or redness, similar to a sunburn, which typically subsides within a few days.
Another possible side effect is the occurrence of temporary pigment changes, particularly for individuals with darker skin or those who don’t follow their provider’s pre-treatment and post-treatment care instructions. In rare cases, laser hair removal can cause blistering, scarring or other changes in skin texture.
Typically, results from waxing can be seen immediately after the treatment session. The longevity of these results, however, can vary depending on individual hair growth rates. For most people, the effects of waxing last approximately three to four weeks. During this time, the hair begins to grow back, but it’s usually softer and less noticeable than before.
Regular waxing can potentially slow hair growth and reduce the density of your hair over time.
Laser hair removal results aren’t instantaneous and typically require multiple sessions to achieve. In general, you can expect to see a significant reduction in hair growth after about two to six sessions. Each session is typically spaced about four to six weeks apart to align with the body’s hair growth cycle.
Once they emerge, the results of laser hair removal can last for several months or even years, depending on individual factors such as hair color, hair type, and the area(s) treated. Some individuals may require occasional maintenance treatments to address hair regrowth.
The cost of waxing can vary significantly based on the area(s) of the body being treated and the region in which you live. Typically, smaller areas like the eyebrows or upper lip cost between $10 and $20 per session. Larger areas like the full legs or back often range from $50 to $100 per session.
Some salons offer package deals if multiple areas are treated in one visit, which may present a more economical choice for some individuals. It’s important to factor in that waxing is a recurring expense, as it typically needs to be repeated every three to six weeks to maintain the results from the first session.
The cost of laser hair removal can vary significantly depending on several factors. First, the size of the treatment area–larger areas like the back or legs are more costly than smaller areas like the upper lip or underarms. The number of laser hair removal sessions required can also have a significant effect on the cost of your overall treatment.
Regional pricing variations and the particular clinic chosen can also affect the price of your treatment. On average, in the United States, a single laser hair removal session can cost anywhere from $100 to $800, with the average being $389 in 2020. It’s advisable to reach out to service providers in your area for a more accurate quote.
Laser hair removal tends to be a better option than waxing for several reasons. Firstly, laser hair removal offers a longer-lasting solution to unwanted hair. While waxing removes hair at the root, it does grow back within a few weeks. In contrast, laser hair removal targets the hair’s pigment and destroys the hair follicle, significantly reducing or even eliminating hair regrowth over time.
Secondly, laser hair removal is less painful than waxing. While the sensation is often compared to a rubber band snapping against the skin, it’s generally considered less intense than the pain associated with waxing.
Lastly, laser hair removal is more precise and can effectively target multiple hairs in a small area, making it a more efficient hair removal method.
At Bella Medspa, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction. Our team of experienced estheticians will guide you throughout the laser hair removal process, addressing your concerns and customizing the treatment to suit your body.
Furthermore, our competitive pricing and flexible schedule ensure that laser hair removal is accessible and convenient for you. Choose Bella Medspa and embrace the confidence that comes with smooth, hair-free skin.
Heather joined the Bella Medspa team in January of 2020. After working several years in dental industry and the fitness industry, she decided it was time to put her business management skills and her love for aesthetics to use. She currently manages our six Bella Medspa locations across Southeastern Pennsylvania and is dedicated to helping us build and grow as the world of aesthetics continues to evolve.
