Laser hair removal uses concentrated light to weaken hair follicles and reduce hair growth over time, while waxing physically removes hair from the root. For upkeep, waxing should be done every 3-4 weeks, and the results are immediate. Laser hair removal requires multiple sessions before seeing results, but hair reduction is long-lasting. Both result in thinner, softer hair regrowth over time.

Brazilian laser hair removal uses laser energy to target hair follicles in the bikini area, reducing hair regrowth after multiple sessions. Waxing removes the hair from the root and leaves the area smooth immediately. Guests get the best results when they consistently wax every 3-4 weeks.

Both waxing and laser can be good options for sensitive skin—which you choose depends on your individual needs. There are certain contraindications for laser, such as pregnancy, certain medications, or skin or health conditions. In this case, waxing is a good alternative. European Wax Center uses Comfort Wax®, a hard, strip-less wax that contains soothing beeswax and is gentle on sensitive skin.

Pain tolerance and sensitivity vary person to person, so some may find waxing less painful than laser and vice versa. It’s important to note that the sensations are not the same. Laser hair removal is often described more as a zap or a sharp pain, whereas waxing is described as a quick sting after the strip is removed. With consistency, both waxing and laser become more comfortable over time thanks to a reduction in hair density. The biggest factor in reducing pain for either method is choosing an experienced professional.

Laser hair removal is more expensive upfront. Your technician will help you determine how many sessions of laser hair removal you need, and after that, you’ll only need touch-up appointments once or twice a year for maintenance. Waxing is ongoing and should be done every 3-4 weeks for consistently smooth results, so the cost of waxing could outpace laser in the long run.

Laser hair removal is not permanent, but it does reduce hair growth long-term. While it is highly effective for reducing hair growth, it’s important to note that results may vary person to person. Many guests require future touch-ups, either with more laser or with waxing, in order to remain completely smooth. Life events, such as pregnancy and hormonal changes, can also cause new hair to grow in.

It’s best to avoid waxing before laser hair removal. Waxing removes hair from the root, which is where the laser needs to target its energy. To prepare for laser hair removal, shave the area before your appointment according to your provider’s instructions. This removes hair on the surface but leaves the roots intact.

No. While you are receiving laser hair removal treatments, you should not be waxing in between. It is recommended to shave in between laser hair removal sessions instead. Both waxing and laser hair removal target hair at the root, so waxing between laser sessions may make your treatments less effective.

Yes. Many guests love waxing to maintain smooth results after laser hair reduction, especially since laser treatments can still leave hair behind. Many people find waxing after laser very easy, quick, and comfortable thanks to sparser, thinner hair growth.

If you’re still completing a laser treatment plan, it’s best not to wax between sessions. If you have finished your treatments, you can begin waxing as soon as you have new hair growth and there is no sensitivity or irritation from prior laser treatments.

No, waxing will not undo results from laser hair removal. You should, however, wait for all laser treatments to be complete before starting to wax.

No, waxing does not make hair grow back thicker or faster, especially after laser hair removal.

Yes. Many guests love Brazilian waxing to maintain smooth results after laser hair removal. For those who have undergone laser treatments and still have sparse hair growth, waxing is an effective way to quickly and easily clean up the area. Getting a Brazilian wax after having laser hair removal can also make the process less painful thanks to sparser hair.

Once laser treatments are complete, and if no ongoing treatments are planned, you can wax or use any other form of hair removal after laser treatments. Waxing is often preferred because it’s fast, effective, and long-lasting. At European Wax Center, we offer wax packages that don’t expire. This is perfect for anyone who has had laser hair removal, since it allows you to wax as needed.

Yes, you can return to waxing if you decide to stop laser hair removal or have completed your laser hair removal treatments. Some hair may have been permanently reduced by laser, so your regrowth may be lighter, finer, or less dense than it was before treatment. This makes waxing faster, easier, and more comfortable—the perfect way to remove remaining hair growth.