For years, waxing been the answer for those wanting smooth skin without shaving every couple of days. You make an appointment, endure a bit of discomfort and then enjoy the best of weeks prior to the hair starts to grow back. Then the cycle repeats.
With laser hair removal growing more accessible, it’s only natural to wonder if you still need to book those regular salon appointments. Or maybe you won’t need to wax at all eventually or would you just go from one beauty appointment to another? Remember, it is contingent upon your hair type, treatment expectations and how much maintenance you’re ready to commit to.
Read this guide to learn more about.
Why Does Waxing Keep You Coming Back?
Waxing removes hair from the root, which is why the results generally last longer than shaving. This regeneration is generally observed around 3 to 6 weeks but may be seen sooner or later depending on different parts of the body and individual hair growth rates. The key difference is that waxing does not prevent the growth of new hair; it just pulls the existing one out. If you want to keep skin smooth, you will need to have regular appointments. Many people also develop ingrown hairs, irritation or discomfort from repeated waxing over time. These concerns often encourage people to explore longer-lasting alternatives.
Will Laser Hair Removal Substitute Waxing?
A laser hair removal treatment is designed to minimize the amount of future hair growth by targeting pigment in the hair follicle rather than waxing. Melanin in the hair absorbs energy from the laser and transforms it into heat, which causes damage to the structures that produce hair. During the course of several sessions, this may greatly diminish the amount of hair growing in the treated area.
However, there’s an important difference between permanent hair removal and long-term hair reduction. Laser treatment doesn’t mean that all hairs will vanish forever. Some follicles can start to grow again, and others may continue to do so. However, many people suffer from significant thinning and a slowdown in hair growth, and frequent waxing is not required. Others might require occasional shaving or maintenance to keep the remaining hair in check.
Will You Have to Stop Waxing Before Starting Laser?
Here’s something people don’t always consider when switching treatments: you generally can’t continue waxing between laser appointments. Laser treatment needs pigment within the hair follicle to absorb its energy. When the hair is waxed, threaded, or plucked, it is taken from the roots and leaves the laser target it is trying to remove. These methods are recommended to be avoided for about 4 weeks prior to the first session, though preparation instructions may differ.
The difference between shaving and any other method is that the latter leaves the root unchanged and the hairs grow back as soon as the skin is covered again. Therefore, it is generally recommended to shave prior to laser appointments. Depending on treatment area and equipment, you may be asked to shave around 24 hours prior to your appointment at your clinic. Between shaves you can continue shaving if needed, unless your skin is irritated.
How Many Laser Sessions Does It Take to Stop Waxing?
A single appointment will not take the place of years of regular waxing. During the hair growth cycle, laser treatment works best when the hairs are in the active growing phase. Multiple treatments are needed as not all hair follicles are active at the same time. Around 6-8 sessions are needed at first, but some people may need more than that. Treatment may be spaced four to eight weeks apart based on the area being treated and the growth rate. It may look like hair growth, but this is treated hair that is falling out bit by bit over the next few days or weeks. As the treatment goes on, regrowth can be less vigorous, less coarse and less obvious. You might still need to shave occasionally during this period. It’s important to assess results after the entire treatment session, not at the end of the first.
Is Laser Effective on All Areas of the Body?
Not necessarily. Laser hair removal generally works best on coarse, dark hair because it contains more pigment for the laser to target. Sensitive areas like underarms, bikini area and legs tend to fare better when pigmented enough. Fine facial hair can be more difficult to treat. In some situations, exposure to the laser can even trigger more hair growth, especially for fine hair on the neck and face. But hair color is important, too.
Similarly, blonde, red, gray or white hairs tend to fare poorly because they lack the appropriate suitable pigment. Results may vary due to hormonal factors, particularly around the chin and upper lip. Individuals who have the facial hair traits due to hormone activity may need extra treatments or maintenance. Therefore, a professional evaluation is best before signing a package to know if there is an area of suitability.