Laser Vs Waxing: Which Hair Removal Method Is Better?

Laser vs Waxing

Unwanted hair is a very real problem for many, whether on the upper-lip, chin, jawline, chest, arms and legs, back or other areas of the body. Many different methods exist which deal with removal of unwanted hair. Some offer the benefit of ease, while others are less painful. These include shaving, depilatory creams, bleaching, laser and waxing. Waxing has long been a common method of getting rid of unwanted body hair. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, is growing in popularity as an effective, long-term method of unwanted hair removal. Waxing and laser hair removal are both effective in dealing with the problem of unwanted body hair. However, when comparing waxing vs laser hair removal, both differ vastly when it comes to the process and pain level, as well as results. In the quest to find out the winner when it comes to laser vs waxing, let’s take a deeper look at both procedures…

How Does Waxing Work?

Waxing is a hair removal solution suitable for men and women. In this method, hair is removed from its roots. It is done by applying sticky wax on the skin. The wax, along with the hair, is pulled off usually with a piece of cloth. As waxing helps get rid of unwanted body hair right from the roots, it keeps skin hair-free, and smooth for longer. It also helps avoid the possibility of nicks, cuts or injuries, as well as stubble which is common with shaving. Waxing also helps eliminate dead skin cells. Waxing is done using either hot or cold wax. Waxing should be avoided by those who have hypersensitive skin, haemophilia or diabetes, as well as those who have sunburn, a rash, or any contagious skin condition.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal is used to reduce unwanted hair in locations such as legs, armpits, upper lip, chin and the bikini line. In this procedure, a concentrated beam of light (laser) is used to remove unwanted hair. The light that is emitted by a laser is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. As this light energy is converted to heat, it damages the hair follicles, which are the tube-shaped sacs within the skin that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth. Laser hair removal delays hair growth for long periods. Multiple laser hair removal treatments might be required for initial hair removal, followed by maintenance treatments.
During the laser process, pulses of light will be given in the treatment area. A slight discomfort may be felt.

The Pros and Cons of Waxing

Pros:

A single session of waxing is far less expensive than laser hair removal. However, over the years, cost of waxing treatments can add up to become costlier than laser treatment. Waxing works universally on all hair types, skin types, and skin tones. The colour or texture of skin or hair makes no difference, which makes waxing a good option for those for whom laser hair removal might not be effective. While waxing is best performed by a professional, it can also be done at home.

Cons:

Pain is a real part of waxing. When hair is yanked out especially from sensitive areas, it hurts. In waxing, the root of the hair is not destroyed but is pulled out from the hair follicle. The hair grows back and it could lead to ingrown hairs. Waxing does not offer hair-free skin at all times, as it can only be performed on hair that is a quarter-inch long. As the wax needs to grip onto the hair to be pulled out, regrowth of hair between waxes is necessary. It can also be time-consuming, and require waxing treatment on the same area every few weeks. Waxing could damage sensitive skin.

The Pros and Cons of Laser Hair Removal

Pros:

Laser hair removal comes with the main benefit of long-term results. While many see results that are permanent, others enjoy hair-free skin for months or years at a time. Laser hair removal sessions are quick and easy. Time spent under laser is just a few minutes at a time. Treatment is safe and doesn’t cause any long-term damage to the skin. Performed by a certified laser technician, even people with sensitive skin can use this hair removal treatment. It can be performed on any part of the body barring the area near the eyes. It is also much less painful than waxing, and the sensation is similar to a rubber-band snapping against the skin.

Cons:

It is most effective on those with light skin and dark hair. Those with dark skin or light hair might not achieve optimum results. Laser hair removal is also far more expensive than a single waxing session. However, as it is a long-term hair removal method, the costs can be less over time. The treatment also requires multiple treatments for the hair follicle to be destroyed. Hair needs to be at a certain stage of growth for the process to be conducted.

Why Laser Hair Removal Is Better than Waxing?

Waxing vs laser hair removal or laser vs waxing – the battle continues! Waxing and laser hair removal are both effective in their own way when dealing with unwanted body hair. When it comes to laser hair removal vs waxing, the benefits of laser hair removal score over the benefits of waxing. In the choice between laser and waxing, laser is a better choice as it’s not only a long-term solution to the problem of unwanted body hair, but is also much less painful than waxing. Laser hair removal also eliminates the problem of ingrown hairs, as it completely destroys the hair follicle. Clearly, when it’s laser hair removal vs waxing, the former is a winner.