Laser hair removal and waxing are two of the most common and popular hair removal methods today, and many would like to know the pros and cons of each method. Before the two methods can be compared understanding how each method works is important.
The goal in laser hair removal is to permanently reduce hair. The laser hair removal practitioner uses a laser device over the area to be treated. But not all hairs can be targeted at the same time as hair grows in different stages. Several treatments are needed spaced apart by 4-8 weeks. Almost any area of the face and body can be treated. The treated hairs will shed 10-14 days after treatment where after the client will be smooth for a couple of weeks until another treatment is needed. While laser hair removal is an effective treatment, it is also long term process.
Waxing is an older method of hair removal that dates back many centuries. And it was only a couple of decades ago when women routinely used to make their own wax combining lemon, honey and sugar. With the introduction of ready made wax that only needs to be heated, making your own wax was no longer a must. In order to remove hair the wax needs to be spread over the area to be treated. The wax can thereafter be removed as is or with the help of a piece of thin fabric. A successful waxing will leave the skin smooth and hair free for a couple of weeks.
When it comes to the delicate subject of pain, neither laser hair removal nor waxing is usually 100 percent pain free. Both methods can cause great discomfort, especially in sensitive clients. However, for laser hair removal it is possible to use numbing cream or take painkillers prior to treatment. And during waxing, the first strips are usually the most painful where after the body’s natural painkiller, endorphins, will kick in and ease the pain. Pain is individual but many people who have tried both methods feel that the pain from waxing is more intense.
Laser hair removal does not pull the hair out as waxing does, but the hair will fall out on its own. While laser hair removal costs more than waxing, it also permanently reduces hair, which waxing does not. Waxing is temporary and hairs are expected to grow back. In laser hair removal one can usually notice a strong reduction in hair even after just a couple of sessions.
One of the disadvantages to waxing is that it can be messy and that it requires monthly maintenance; hairs also need to be long enough to be waxed. In laser hair removal, shaving of the hairs is fine and does not interfere with treatment. While both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, laser hair removal is the only one that offers permanent reduction in hair, which makes it a more attractive solution to many people.
Photo via michael cyancy
