laser for hair removal
introduction
In the world of smooth skin and zero razor burn, laser hair removal has emerged as one of the most popular long-term solutions for getting rid of unwanted hair. Whether you’re tired of shaving every other day, dealing with ingrown hairs, or just ready to invest in a longer-lasting option, laser hair removal might be the glow-up your self-care routine has been waiting for.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about laser hair removal—how it works, what to expect, who it’s for, and how it compares to traditional waxing.
What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated light (laser) to target and destroy hair follicles. The pigment in the hair (melanin) absorbs the light, which damages the follicle enough to inhibit future growth.
The result? Finer, lighter, and often significantly reduced hair growth over time.
How Does It Work?
The laser emits a pulse of light.
That light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair.
The light energy converts to heat, which damages the hair follicle.
Damaged follicles struggle to regrow hair, leading to permanent reduction over time.
Hair grows in different cycles—anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Laser hair removal is most effective during the anagen phase, which is why multiple sessions (usually 6–8) are needed to catch all hairs in their active phase.
Waxing vs. Laser Hair Removal
When it comes to hair removal, waxing and laser are two of the most popular options—but they’re wildly different experiences with very different results.
Waxing is a well-known, go-to method for quick hair removal. It rips the hair out from the root, which can leave the skin feeling smooth for a few weeks. But let’s be real—it’s painful. It’s a sharp, stinging kind of pain that hits fast and hard, especially in sensitive areas like the bikini line or underarms. And the worst part? You have to let the hair grow out before you can wax again. That means you’ll go through that awkward, prickly in-between phase where your hair is too short to pull, but too long to hide. Plus, waxing can irritate the skin and often leads to ingrown hairs, especially for those with coarse or curly hair.
Now let’s talk laser. It’s not painless—think rubber band snaps or a warm prickly feeling—but most people find it way more tolerable than waxing, especially since there’s no ripping involved. The real win with laser hair removal is in the long-term results. It targets the hair follicle itself, weakening it with each session until the hair grows back finer, lighter, or stops altogether. You don’t need to grow your hair out between sessions—in fact, you’re supposed to shave. That means no awkward grow-out period.
In terms of cost, waxing may seem cheaper upfront, but it adds up fast when you’re booking appointments every 4–6 weeks for years. Laser requires a higher investment at the beginning, but once your sessions are done, many people go months—or even years—without needing a touch-up. And say goodbye to those nasty ingrowns. Laser significantly reduces them, if not eliminates them entirely, which is a game-changer if you’ve struggled with bumps or irritation.
Ultimately, waxing is a great short-term solution if you need to be smooth for a vacation or event, but laser is the clear winner for anyone who’s ready to stop the cycle for good. If you're tired of constantly booking wax appointments and dealing with the regrowth and aftermath, laser might just be your new best friend.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal isn’t just about convenience—it’s a total game-changer when it comes to your long-term skincare routine. Here’s why more and more people are ditching razors and wax strips for good:
1. Long-Lasting Results
One of the biggest perks? Once your treatment sessions are complete, you’re looking at seriously reduced hair growth—or none at all. Most people experience smooth, hair-free skin for months or even years with just the occasional maintenance touch-up.
2. Say Goodbye to Ingrown Hairs
If you’re prone to painful or unsightly ingrowns, laser hair removal can be life-changing. Because it targets the hair follicle itself, it helps prevent the kind of regrowth that causes hairs to get trapped under the skin. No more bumps, no more picking, no more scarring.
3. Precision and Speed
Laser technology is incredibly precise. It can target dark, coarse hairs while leaving the surrounding skin untouched, making it ideal for areas like the upper lip, bikini line, or underarms. And sessions are fast—small areas can take just minutes.
4. No More Awkward Grow-Out
Unlike waxing, where you have to grow hair out between appointments, laser hair removal works best when the area is shaved. That means you can stay smooth in between treatments without compromising results.
5. Saves You Time (and Money) in the Long Run
Think about how many hours you’ve spent shaving, waxing, or booking appointments. Laser treatments might seem like a bigger investment upfront, but the long-term payoff is massive. Fewer appointments. Less time grooming. And no more emergency trips to the drugstore for razors or wax strips.
6. Softer, Smoother Skin
Because laser hair removal eliminates stubble and reduces irritation, your skin stays silky soft—without the rough texture or redness that can come from shaving or waxing.
7. Boosted Confidence
Let’s be real: there’s something incredibly freeing about not worrying if you shaved, if your skin is bumpy, or if it’s “time” for another wax. Laser hair removal gives you the kind of confidence that comes from consistently smooth, low-maintenance skin.
Cons of Laser Hair Removal
As amazing as laser hair removal sounds, it’s not all sunshine and stubble-free skin. There are a few things to consider before committing:
1. It’s an Investment
Laser hair removal isn’t cheap. You’re looking at multiple sessions (usually 6–10 depending on the area and your hair type), and each one can cost anywhere from $100 to $500. While it can save money over time, the upfront cost can feel like a lot.
2. It’s Not Instant
Laser isn’t a one-and-done solution. Hair falls out gradually over time, and because it only targets hair in the active growth phase, you’ll need multiple sessions spaced weeks apart. Translation: if you need smooth skin now for a last-minute event, this isn’t the quick fix.
3. Works Best on Certain Hair & Skin Types
Laser hair removal is most effective on people with light skin and dark hair. If you have light blonde, red, gray, or white hair, results can be minimal because the laser targets pigment in the hair follicle. Newer technologies are improving results for deeper skin tones, but not every laser is created equal—so it’s important to choose a provider who understands how to treat all skin types safely.
4. Some Discomfort
While it’s generally less painful than waxing, laser isn’t completely painless. Most people describe it as a rubber band snap or warm pinprick. Some areas, like the upper lip or bikini line, can be more sensitive.
5. Potential Side Effects
Laser hair removal is safe when done properly, but side effects like temporary redness, swelling, or skin irritation can happen. In rare cases, burns, pigment changes, or scarring may occur—especially if it’s done by an inexperienced provider or on the wrong skin type with the wrong equipment.
6. Requires Commitment
If you're the type who forgets appointments or hates sticking to a schedule, laser may not be your jam. You’ll need to commit to regular sessions (typically every 4–6 weeks), and missing appointments can delay or affect your results.
7. Sun Exposure is a No-No
You’ll need to avoid sun exposure before and after treatments—no tanning, no beach days, no skipping SPF. Lasers and sunburned or freshly tanned skin do not mix and can lead to complications like burns or hyperpigmentation.
FAQs About Laser Hair Removal
Q: Is it painful?
A: It feels like a rubber band snap or hot pinprick, but most people say it’s tolerable. Some machines have built-in cooling for comfort.
Q: Can I do it at home with a DIY device?
A: At-home IPL devices can work, but they’re weaker and take longer to show results. Also, they’re not ideal for deeper skin tones or sensitive areas.
Q: Can men get laser hair removal?
A: Absolutely! Popular areas for men include the back, chest, neck, and beard line.
Q: What if I’m pregnant?
A: Most providers will not perform laser hair removal during pregnancy due to lack of research on safety.
Q: Can I go in the sun before/after?
A: Nope. Avoid sun exposure (and tanning beds!) at least 2 weeks before and after each session. It increases the risk of burns and pigment changes.
Final Thoughts: Is Laser Worth It?
Laser is a great option for those who don't want to shave, or commit to waxing every month. It provides long term results and is more cost effective in the long term however, it is not for everyone. WILD+SOUL-Brazilian + Manzilian Wax offers professional Brazilian waxing services.
Are you are interested in a waxing hair removal session? check out our waxing services for comfortable hair removal.