There have been several debates surrounding the pros and cons of laser hair removal and waxing. So which should you choose? Of course it’s personal choice at the end of the day but here are our two cents on it!

Waxing

Professional waxing works by pouring a hot or cold wax over your desired area of choice. Hair is removed in the opposite direction of the hair growth, pulling hairs out from the root. 

It’s best for legs, underarms, and bikini areas, especially if it’s the summer time and you want to feel sexy in a bikini without hair poking out of your nether region and legs!

Pros:

• Waxing isn’t permanent so it’s a good starter if you haven’t had hair removal done before. It will keep your hair at bay for on average of three weeks of smooth skin. Obviously this varies depending  on your hair type and thickness.

Cons:

• Waxing requires some regrowth in order to be effective, as the wax needs at least a quarter inch of stubble to adhere to.
• Treatments are going to leave you red and sore. Of course it’ll get easier over time but don’t expect to feel fantastic when you first undergo this ripping. Hair is indeed being ripped out at the root, but it becomes more tolerable over time.
• Waxing can also result in ingrown hairs.

People can spend anywhere from $35 to $80 for salon waxing, depending on areas waxed and your salon of choice.

ALSO FYI:

• Some people come in after consuming alcohol thinking it’ll ease the pain, but alcohol tightens pores. 
• Caffeine addicts, have your coffee as a treat after waxing. Stimulants can increase sensitivity.
• Do your research and find a salon that uses good quality wax. 

Laser Hair Removal

Laser Hair Removal works by penetrating the skin to target the hair shaft and inhibit hair growth. It essentially destroys the follicle, meaning it can achieve permanent removal. Typically, the hair in treated areas falls out within 2-3 weeks.

Best For:

People with hair darker than their skin benefit best from laser. Laser targets the melanin in the hair, so it’s not suited for people with dark skin or pale hair. The laser needs to be able to lock on to the dark pigment in order to differentiate the dark hair from the skin.

Pros:

• If you’ve got a holiday planned for somewhere warm where you’re going to show some skin, laser has got you covered for long term hair removal.
• It causes no damage to the dermis.
• Even the most sensitive skin can be treated.

Cons:

• Like waxing, laser hair removal can be painful. Some people describe it as a “snapping” sensation against the skin, as well as a sensation of heat from the laser.
• Laser removal isn’t a once off appointment. You’ll need to visit a dermatologist and do your research. All places vary with the type of laser they use and see whether your skin colour and hair colour is compatible with the laser used. 

For Laser Hair Removal, you’re looking at forking out anywhere between $95 to $250 per treatment. An average of six to ten sessions is recommended to capture the hair follicles at different stages of the growth cycle. 

FYI:

• While it may seem like a lot of cash to fork out in the short term, it is a long term investment. Think about how much you could spend over a lifetime with options such as waxing or electrolysis.