By Laura
Updated: April 10, 2024
6 minutes
Waxing and laser hair removal are two of the most mentioned hair removal methods. One has been in use for centuries while the other method has recently been introduced. Some people have stayed loyal to waxing while others want to switch to laser.
With all the speculations going on about laser, will it be the right decision? Will the expensive laser hair removal be worth it? This article covers laser hair removal vs waxing. So continue reading to make the right choice!
Table of Contents:
- Part 1: Laser Hair Removal
- Part 2: Waxing
- Part 3: Laser Hair Removal vs Waxing: Which is Better?
- Part 4: Other Alternative Hair Removal Methods
Part 1: Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is one of the modern techniques for eliminating body hair semi-permanently. It uses a coherent monochromat light source that enters deep into the skin and targets the hair follicles. This light gets absorbed in the melanin pigment which is responsible for our skin and hair color. As it reaches the hair follicles, the light gets converted into heat.
This is where thermal photolysis starts and the follicles are decomposed by the heat. Various lasers such as alexandrite, ruby, diode, and Nd: YAG lasers are used for this purpose. They all work on the same principle. Let’s see how hair removal benefits you
Benefits of Laser
- With the latest technology available, laser hair removal is safe even for skin tones 5 and 6 according to the Fitzpatrick scale
- Since it uses coherent light, the hair follicles are targeted precisely without affecting the surrounding skin
- The results for laser last around 2 years
Drawbacks
- It does not work for very light hair colors like blonde, red, white, or gray
- It takes several sessions so the whole process can be quite expensive
- It needs a lot of care during the session and after sessions. You will also require maintenance sessions now and then to maintain the results
Part 2: Waxing
The second method is a traditional hair removal technique frequently used all around the world. This technique uses a thick sticky substance that sticks to your hair and removes them from the roots with force. You can apply a single wax on the whole body. However, for better results and less pain, different waxes on different parts are preferred.
For instance, sugar wax and hard wax are gentle therefore can be used on small and sensitive areas. On the other hand, soft wax is more effective for larger areas like the chest, legs, and arms. Why is waxing loved by many?
Benefits of Waxing:
- Waxes are readily available and offer quick hair removal
- They also exfoliate the skin making it smoother
- Even a beginner can remove their hair perfectly using a wax
- The new hair that grows is thinner and sparser than before
Disadvantages:
- It is painful especially if you have sensitive skin
- There are chances of ingrown hair formation if your technique is not right
- Waxing can occasionally cause bleeding, redness, and inflammation in the skin
Part 3: Laser Hair Removal vs Waxing: Which is Better?
Effectiveness
Laser hair removal provides a 25% reduction in hair growth with every next session in most cases. After the sessions are complete, the results last for about 2 years or even more depending upon the hair growth cycle. Only occasional maintenance is required.
On the other hand, the results for waxing last for only one month. Although regular waxing every four weeks can slow down hair growth and make hair thinner, it can never retard hair growth for years like laser hair removal.
Pain and Discomfort
Laser hair removal vs waxing pain? Which is more painful? None of these removal methods are painless. If we compare their pain level, waxing pain is a little more than that of laser hair removal. When a wax forcefully detaches hair from its roots, you feel a sharp stinging sensation in that area.
In contrast, laser pain is mild and more like a tingling sensation on the body. In simple words, a laser causes discomfort while waxing causes pain.
Cost
Waxing hair removal at salons can cost between $20-250 depending on the area being waxed. If you prefer waxing at home, a single kit costs between $15-50. If we add up this cost for two years, waxing will go up to $120-6000 at the salon while $360-1200 at home.
Laser hair removal, on average, can cost up to $600 for larger areas and $250 for smaller areas. You will require 2-6 sessions which makes it quite expensive.
Side Effects and Risks
None of the waxing and lasers are risk-free hair removal methods. The chances of these risks increase if the hair removal technique is wrong or the worker is inexperienced.
Both these can temporarily cause redness and inflammation on the skin. With a laser, there are more chances of skin burning while the wrong wax can cause bleeding. However, laser eradicates the chances of ingrown hair, skin allergies, and skin ripping which is common in waxing.
Suitability for Different Skin and Hair Types
Laser hair removal is more suitable for light skin tones. It can still be performed on darker tones like skin tones 5 and 6 however the risks for skin burning increases in such cases. The effectiveness of laser may also vary as the skin tone varies.
Similarly, it works based on the concentration of melanin and light hair colors have no melanin. Therefore, it will not be effective for grey, red, and blonde hair. Contrary to laser hair removal, waxing is suitable for all skin tones and hair types.
Convenience and Time-taken
Waxing can be considered more convenient as compared to laser hair removal as it can be easily performed at home. On the other hand, there is only one laser device available for at-home hair removal.
In salons, the time taken for both laser and waxing per session is similar. The pre and post-care of both these procedures is also the same. Your skin needs regular cleansing, exfoliation, and protection from the sun.
You just need to go for waxing regularly after every four to six weeks while laser sessions can be discontinued for almost two years.
Part 4: Other Alternative Hair Removal Methods
IPL Hair Removal
IPL hair removal works similarly to the laser. It targets melanin in your skin and damages the hair follicles. The light used in IPL is non-coherent so it is less intense and thus less painful for the body. It is more suitable for lighter skin tones and darker hair colors. The results of IPL hair removal lasts for 6 months to 2 years.
Unlike laser devices, a number of IPL devices are available in the market. For instance, the Ulike Sapphire Air 3 is an IPL device that offers almost pain-free and quick at-home hair removal. The results are apparent within just 2 weeks of hair removal while you can achieve 90% hair reduction within one month. Its ice-cooling technology ensures a nearly painless and risk-free session while the UV filters protect your eyes from damage.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is another worth mentioning alternative hair removal method. Unlike laser or waxing, it offers permanent hair removal. The technique uses a thin needle or wire that, when enters into your hair follicles, uses current to permanently destroy them. It is independent of any skin pigments. Therefore, people with any skin color or hair color can undergo the procedure.
Since the professional inserts a needle into each hair by hand, it is a bit time-consuming. Your skin can react and be red or inflamed temporarily after electrolysis. It costs around $50-200 per hour and you require at least 10-14 Sessions for permanent results.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is still not widely used as waxing. It provides better results and is less painful as compared to waxing. However, the whole procedure requires multiple sessions which makes it a lot more expensive than waxing hair removal. It is mostly done by professionals while waxing can also be done at home.
Both these methods have their ups and downs. While making the choice, consider your skin and hair type, affordability, needs, and comfort. You can also get a consultation from a professional before making the decision.
