When it comes to body hair, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. You might fall into the camp that never thinks about it, or you might be into various hair removal techniques. If the latter applies to you, your preferred hair removal method might be based on factors such as your skin type, sensitivity, or budget.
Two of the most popular options are waxing and laser hair removal. The great thing about both is that they're suitable for the face and body. However, if you're struggling to decide which one is best for you, don't fret. We tapped two board-certified dermatologists to break down the differences between the two.
Meet the Expert
- Dr. Ann Reed, DO, is a board-certified dermatologist at the Rendon Center for Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine in Boca Raton, Florida.
- Dr. Alexandra Bowles, DO, is a board-certified dermatologist at Mona Dermatology in Kenwood, Ohio.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
While it may sound intimidating, laser hair removal is one of the most frequently performed non-surgical procedures in the United States. According to Dr. Bowles, the treatment involves using a laser to remove unwanted facial and body hair. The laser emits light that is absorbed by the pigment or melanin found in the hair follicles, which in turn delays future hair growth.
What Is Waxing?
According to Dr. Reed, waxing is a semi-permanent hair removal method. "There are different types of wax, such as soft wax, also known as strip waxing, and hard wax, which is directly applied onto the skin, cooled for a few minutes, and then pulled and removed in the opposite direction of the hair growth," Bowles says.
Waxing can be performed on various body parts, including the legs, arms, underarms, bikini area, face, and eyebrows. A waxing session typically involves applying a thin layer of wax to the skin, then pressing a cloth or paper strip over the wax before quickly pulling it off, removing the hair from the root. It's a popular method because it allows for more effective hair removal from the root and delays hair regrowth. The one caveat is that you must wait for your hair to grow back between sessions—most estheticians will recommend that your hair be at least 1/4 inch long.
Waxing vs. Laser Hair Removal
Results
It's important to note that both hair removal processes can yield different results. The key difference is that laser hair removal is semi-permanent or, in some cases, permanent, while waxing must be performed regularly as the hair regrows.
"The most common result seen in laser hair removal is an 80% or more reduction in hair growth after several treatments spread out over multiple weeks," Reed says. For optimal reduction, you'll need to plan for several treatments, with maintenance treatments every year or so.
Waxing provides immediate results, but the results are temporary. Reed says that "patients can expect hair to grow back within three to six weeks." After treatment, she says you may experience temporary redness and minor skin irritation that can last a few days.
Skin and Hair Type Considerations
When considering laser hair removal or waxing, Reed emphasizes the importance of considering skin color and sensitivity. Laser treatment works more effectively on individuals with light skin and dark hair. "Patients with darker skin tones can safely undergo laser hair removal, but it must be done with a specific laser that is safe for darker skin tones," Reed says.
Hair thickness is also a factor to consider. Lasers tend to work best on thicker hairs due to their higher pigment content, which allows for better absorption of laser energy. Conversely, waxing can effectively remove hairs of varying thicknesses.
Pain Level
If you’re someone with a low pain tolerance, both treatments might be a bit uncomfortable, but it’s on a sliding scale. Generally speaking, both waxing and laser hair removal are not considered extremely painful procedures. According to Bowles, most people feel a mild stinging or tingling sensation during laser treatment—you can use topical numbing cream in certain areas for added comfort. Waxing may cause more discomfort, especially on sensitive areas of the body like the bikini area, underarms, and upper lip.
Cost
According to our experts, laser hair removal costs are usually calculated per session, typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more. However, the price can vary depending on the size of the treatment area and the number of sessions required. Smaller areas like the upper lip may cost less than larger areas like the legs or back. Since laser hair removal is a more permanent option, maintenance treatments are necessary to slow hair growth effectively. The procedure may cost more initially, but it can be a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Depending on the treated area, waxing is typically less expensive than laser hair removal. A single waxing session usually costs $20 to $100. "Since waxing is not a permanent hair removal solution, the cost of routine wax treatments for several years can be more costly than laser treatment," Bowles says.
Aftercare
If you experience discomfort, irritation, or redness in the laser-treated area, Reed suggests applying an ice pack, aloe vera gel, or calming creams for three days after the treatment to relieve and reduce these symptoms. Avoiding sun exposure and heat (such as hot baths and saunas) is also important. Additionally, resist the urge to scratch or pick at the treated area.
"Similarly, for waxing, individuals are encouraged to avoid sun exposure to prevent sunburn and minimize the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation," Bowles says. "You should also refrain from bathing or taking hot showers, as well as applying perfumed products on the waxed skin for 24 hours," Reed adds. Gentle exfoliation, regular moisturizing, and avoiding tight clothing around the waxed area can also help reduce the risk of skin irritation, redness, and dryness.
Frequency of Treatment
Laser hair removal usually requires multiple treatment sessions spaced several months apart. Most patients can have laser hair removal sessions once every four to six weeks, depending on the rate of hair regrowth and the treatment area. "[It will] require anywhere from six to 10 treatment sessions to achieve optimal results," Reed says. For facial laser treatments, Bowles says, "The hair growth cycle is usually faster, so patients might start with a visit every two weeks, compared to every four weeks for the body."
With waxing, hair growth is faster in areas like the eyebrows, bikini line, and underarms. For these areas, Bowles says a wax session will be needed every two to three weeks to allow the hair to regrow to a waxable length. In contrast, the legs typically require a waxing session every three to five weeks.
Choosing Between the Two
Our experts recommend laser hair removal over waxing as it is the most permanent and effective way to achieve long-lasting hair reduction. "While laser hair removal may not remove every single hair, it will eliminate the majority of treated hairs in an appropriate patient," Reed says.
She continues, noting that waxing can cause irritation, ingrown hairs, and infections and must be done continuously, whereas laser hair removal will eventually reduce the hairs to a point where individuals no longer need to shave.
The Final Takeaway
Both waxing and laser hair removal are effective options for removing facial and body hair. Reed and Bowles are proponents of lasering as it's less painful, less irritating, and, most importantly, a more permanent solution. However, choosing which method best suits you should be based on personal factors. It's important to consider factors such as your skin type, hair type, budget, and the level of permanence you're looking for.
