Can I wax after laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a popular and effective method for long-term hair removal and reduction. Over time, as technology has advanced, laser hair removal has become more accessible. It is no longer a privilege of the wealthy few or movie stars. Today, you can simply order for a laser hair removal session at home and walk out fuzz free before your first work call of the day!

Laser hair removal treatment uses laser beams to zap hair follicles. It targets the hair pigment, which absorbs the energy, heats up and burns out. The process is a precise one and is effective on all body parts, especially the face, bikini line, as well as legs, hands, and underarms.

If you’re considering waxing after laser hair removal, you are likely aware that the procedure doesn’t permanently remove body hair.

Typically, it takes anywhere between three and six sessions to get effective and long-lasting results. Following this, you may also require follow-up sessions once every six months to a year to remain fuzz-free.

Most people report up to 90 per cent reduction in hair growth after completing their laser hair removal treatment. And when hair does regrow, it tends to be sparse, thinner, and of lighter pigmentation making it less visible.

However, how fast your hair grows depends upon multiple factors and you would be tempted to wax it to keep maintaining that smooth fuzz-free look. But should you, though?

Should you wax after laser hair removal?

Waxing involves applying hot or cold wax to the skin and then ripping it off. This causes the hair to be ripped out from its roots. It remains one of the most widely used methods of hair removal around the world. However, despite its effectiveness, it is best to not wax after you’ve undergone a laser hair removal treatment.

1. It interferes with your hair follicles 

Simply put, waxing physically rips out the hair by its roots. So, when there’s no place for the laser to hit, your next laser session will be ineffective.

2. It could lead to skin damage

By its very nature, waxing is a very aggressive method of removing unwanted hair. Laser hair removal, even though a far less painful process in comparison, does leave your skin sensitive. In the days and weeks following your laser hair removal session, you need to take care of it.

Exposing it to sun, heat, or even something as aggressive as waxing will likely cause your skin more harm than good. It could also increase the risk of burns and blisters.

3. It could cause uneven hair growth

Let’s imagine a hypothetical scenario where you are undergoing treatment for an ailment with a doctor. The treatment is going well but just for a brief moment, the ailment flares up. Do you go back to the same doctor, or do you call another?

It would help to remember this when you’re undergoing laser hair removal treatment too. Changing course mid-way will only cause more damage. This is especially true of waxing, which has the potential to make matters worse, and cause uneven hair growth, making it difficult for you to achieve smoother skin.

What are the safer alternatives for hair removal besides waxing after laser hair removal?

Ideally, it is best if you stick to laser hair removal treatment itself. Avoid skipping or postponing scheduled sessions so you don’t experience hair growth between two sessions. But what if, for instance, you suddenly find yourself in a situation where you have no option but to show up fuzz-free? What do you do?

1. Shave

Shaving is likely the least intrusive way of hair removal. A razor manages to remove only the visible part of the hair shaft and not disturb the hair follicles that are the primary target of a laser hair removal treatment.

2. Trim

Trimming unwanted body hair with an electric trimmer is yet another way to go because it doesn’t interfere with the hair follicles.

3. Hair removal cream

Yet another (relatively) non-intrusive way to get rid of unwanted hair, creams are a safe bet to use in case of emergency. But it is always best to use a hair removal cream on a small patch of skin to check if you face any adverse reactions.

The safest thing to do, of course, is to stick to the routine that your doctor and aesthetician have mapped out for you and follow the instructions. A few weeks of discipline can go a long way in ensuring you have rid yourself of any unwanted body hair.

It is quite likely that you may have questions that are specific to your case. To get them answered, you can book an appointment with our certified doctor consultant here.