Waxing and laser hair removal are two options for getting rid of unwanted body hair. You can compare the different hair removal techniques to find the best procedure for your needs. Some procedures can remove hair permanently, while others offer temporary results. Here is a comparison of waxing and laser treatments for hair removal:
What Is Waxing?
Waxing is a hair removal technique involving hot wax or a gel, fabric string, and an applicator. You can use the applicator to apply the wax or gel on your skin in the direction of hair growth. The next step is to apply the fabric strap on the area and smooth it down in the direction of hair growth. You can then pull off the fabric in the opposite direction of hair growth to remove hair.
Waxing removes hair in seconds and pulls it from the follicles, so it generally takes longer to grow back. Depending on the speed of hair growth, the results can last up to several weeks before you need another session.
Pros
Waxing can be a more cost-effective hair removal process than laser if you compare the price of a single procedure. The results are temporary, so multiple waxing sessions can cost more over the years. Another benefit of waxing is the technique can work on people of all skin tones and hair types. You can also wax hair from the comfort of your home, although getting professionally waxed may lead to better results.
Cons
Waxing can be painful, especially in sensitive areas like the face, armpit, and thighs. The technique pulls hair from the follicles, which means the hair should grow back eventually. Waxing may not be ideal if you want hair-free skin throughout the year. You must have some inches of hair growth to apply wax again, so you will probably not always be hair free. The practice may also be costly in the long run.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a procedure involving high-powered lasers that target and destroy hair follicles through light and heat. The process damages hair follicles to prevent them from growing new hair. Sessions often begin with cooling or numbing the area the laser will be targeting. The laser is then applied to the area.
Hair grows in different phases, so the laser technique may not zap all hair in the first session. Laser removal usually takes several sessions. Your technician should inform you about the schedule for your treatment.
Laser technology targets the hair follicles at the root, but it does not mean you will never have hair again. After you finish your set of appointments for treatment, you may need to revisit your technician occasionally to keep hair growth down.
Pros
The results of laser hair removal can last several months or even years. If you are looking for a long-term solution, laser and electrolysis are some of the best procedures. This hair removal process can have a longer effect than waxing. The procedure can be done on just about any part of your body, including your face and bikini area.
Cons
While just about anyone can get the laser procedure, the results are different for each person. People with light skin and dark hair are ideal candidates for the procedure. Laser technology can be more expensive than waxing in the short term. You may also experience discomfort during the procedure, although it tends to be mild. The results require multiple treatments, and you probably will not see an instant difference as you would with waxing or shaving.
Which Is Better: Waxing or Laser Hair Removal?
Leading medical spas can offer a wide range of hair removal options and recommend the best for your specific needs. Waxing can be an effective way to remove hair, but since your hair follicles are not removed, your hair will grow back. You must also let the hair grow before waxing again.
Laser hair removal can be a good choice if you want a long-term solution with low maintenance after the treatment course is complete. The procedure can give you smooth, hairless skin or reduced hair growth for several months or years. Ultimately, the choice is up to you and what you are looking for. See a hair removal specialist to see if laser hair removal is right for you.
