Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt More Than Waxing?
If you are interested in learning about the difference between laser hair removal and waxing, you are in the right place. In this article, we’ll talk about how these two methods differ, as well as how pain levels compare.
Understanding the Pain Levels Laser Hair Removal
Pain during laser hair removal varies from person to person, and it also depends on the body part being treated. Usually, the upper lip is the most painful area because it has thin skin. However, the legs are less painful.
When you’re in the beginning stages of your treatment, the pain can feel like a sharp pinch on your skin. You can reduce the feeling of the pain by applying topical numbing cream. This is often recommended by your Laser Bar or Spa provider before the treatment.
During a laser hair removal session, the laser emits tiny high-heat beams into the skin. The beams penetrate deeper into the skin, which helps to improve the absorption of the energy at the target follicle. It is a more efficient method of removing the hair.
After a laser hair removal treatment, you may experience small swellings or a redness in the area. These are normal and should pass. A cold compress can be helpful to soothe the skin after the procedure.
It is important to avoid activities that increase your core body temperature. Also, be sure to take time to relax before and after the treatment. Taking an antihistamine the night before can help reduce the discomfort.
Depending on your body, the pain from laser hair removal can vary from mild to severe. It is a good idea to take a few days off after your treatment, allowing your skin to recover.
How Does Waxing Compare to Laser Hair Removal
There are a number of options to choose from when it comes to hair removal. These include waxing, shaving and laser. Each one has its own pros and cons. Before you commit to a particular type of hair removal, read up on the differences between each option.
Waxing is the most common form of hair removal. This method removes hair directly from the follicle. It also produces longer-lasting results than shaving. The most important thing to keep in mind is that it must be done correctly to avoid causing damage to the skin.
Laser removal works by targeting the root of the hair. This makes it much more effective. However, it is a more expensive procedure than waxing. Although you can expect to see noticeable results after the first treatment, you will need to have touch up sessions about every six months or so.
Another advantage of laser removal is that it can be performed by anyone. Most clinics offer payment plans to make it affordable. But you’ll still need the equipment and the expertise of a trained professional to get the best results.
Although both procedures are relatively painless, there are some side effects to each. One of the more prominent is the fact that it takes time for the hair to grow back.
Factors That Can Affect Pain Levels
There are a number of factors that can impact the amount of pain you experience from laser hair removal. Some of the most common include the size of the treatment area, the density of the hair, and your skin type.
In general, laser hair removal is much less painful than waxing or shaving. This is due to the fact that the heat from the laser beam is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle, inhibiting the growth of the hair.
The numbing cream that is used is also a factor. Depending on your personal pain tolerance, the amount of numbing cream that is used on your treatment area will determine how painful the procedure will be.
If you are experiencing a lot of pain, your practitioner may recommend a lower laser setting or use a cool gel or device on the laser instrument. Also, make sure you follow any pre- and post-treatment instructions to avoid any complications.
For a smoother experience, use an ice pack on the treatment area prior to the session. You can also take an over-the-counter medicine such as ibuprofen, which can reduce the pain.
Getting adequate sleep before and after a laser hair removal treatment will help improve the sensitivity of your pain receptors. Lack of sleep can also affect your mood and other systems that regulate your body.
