Laser Hair Removal vs Waxing What’s the Better Option?

Are you tired of the endless cycle of waxing, shaving, and dealing with painful ingrown hairs? Many residents in Portland and the surrounding areas feel trapped by the recurring costs and temporary results of traditional hair removal methods. While waxing has long been a go-to solution, modern medical-grade technology has completely shifted the landscape. At Laser Skin Solutions, we provide a faster, more comfortable, and long-term alternative that effectively reduces unwanted hair. If you are ready to stop the cycle and achieve lasting smoothness, explore our professional laser hair removal services tailored for your specific skin type and needs.

Have you ever considered laser hair removal but have been reluctant to commit to the treatment?

That’s okay, I must admit I was hesitant before I tried it as well. I heard all the horror stories of people getting burned or how much it hurts. Other considerations of course included the cost of the process and an overall distrust as to whether it really works. I think these are all valid concerns and I understand why my clients are often nervous the first time. Let’s go through some of these concerns and I think you will find yourself much more at ease.

Waxing is a very common procedure that most men and women seem to go with, likely because of the above concerns, and it is very effective at removing unwanted hair. However, IT HURTS! For most, more so than waxing, especially in the more sensitive areas. Not to mention it is only temporary. When someone opts for waxing, they must commit to coming in and getting the treatment every 4-6 weeks…FOR LIFE! When I think back to before I received laser hair removal treatments, I remember not looking forward to going back but knowing I had to maintain. I also remember the period between treatments. Yes, my skin was soft, smooth and hair free in the area after treatment, but this only lasted for a short time. Not long after the treatments I would then have skin irritations like bumps and even ingrown hairs. This was so frustrating because here I was putting myself through the procedure only to look the way I wanted for a short time. I was embarrassed of the aftermath staying covered up until after my next waxing appointment. Then I needed to let the hair grow back out to be treated again! So, in the end…with each treatment I only had 1-2 weeks of smooth skin that I was comfortable showing off.

Laser Hair Removal like available in our Portland location, were a game changer for me! As I mentioned before, I was reluctant to try laser hair removal mostly because I thought it would hurt. Now if we go back 10-15 years I will say, Yes laser hair removal was painful. This explains all of the conventional understanding of the process and why the fear has spread. However, today’s lasers are much more advanced. We use only the latest equipment that is virtually pain free. When we get to more sensitive areas it can be a little spicy for some, but I would classify it as uncomfortable but not painful. And as for getting burned, that should never happen, and it is the result of the technician not paying attention to their settings and skin types.

What Happens After You Get A Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

A few days after the treatment the hair follicles will then begin to fall out. Since shaving before the visit is required, the area is already smooth and should stay that way. You should not experience the same skin irritations that are common with waxing, sugaring and shaving. However at times, as your body sheds the hairs that are no longer attached to live follicles under your skin, some may experience black heads which can be prevented with gentle exfoliation post treatment. Most notice that much of the hair does not grow back and the hair that does come back after that first  and second visit is thinner. The regrowth process after laser hair removal slows down, taking several weeks. This is the reason we space our appointments 4 weeks apart; we need the hair to grow back some and be in the antigen stage so we can zap it again while it is still week! With each visit less and less hair will grow in the area. We aim to complete 8 treatments in each area to ensure there is no regrowth. Once we get all the needed monthly treatments in, you should find the area is hair free! Now the client may only need a yearly touch up to keep that hair at bay. Which we offer free touch ups for life when you purchase a package of 8 treatments form our Portland and Clackamas Oregon locations.

What’s The Cost Of Laser Hair Removal Vs Waxing?

So, now we have covered the process and hopefully put your concerns about the pain and effectiveness to rest. Now let’s talk about cost. For our example we will use a small area such as the upper lip. If you have the area waxed, you are probably paying about $20 per visit. You will then do this at least every month and in some cases more often, costing you about $240 per year. Now ask yourself…how many years will you need this treatment and multiply that number times $240. For example, at my age I would say I would have the desire to wax that area for about 10-15 years. This means that over time I would spend between $2,400 and $3,600 to keep the area maintained. Now consider the time spent, the pain and all that good stuff that must be factored in. If I decide to go with the same procedure at Laser Skin Solutions, you are going to pay about $240 for 8 treatments (that’s only $10 per visit more than Waxing). Then after 8 visits you’re done! Even if you needed yearly touch-ups at $30 per year, the cost (not to mention time spent on all those visits) could never reach the cost of waxing.

 

Let’s recap this to be clear…. Laser hair removal with Laser Skin Solutions in Portland Oregon is less expensive over time, less painful, and more effective. Most experience less  if not no post treatment skin irritations, and achieve a more permanent hair removal. Hmmm….it seems like an easy decision to me. No wonder it is the most performed advanced cosmetic procedure in the US. Still nervous? Come in for a free consultation and we can do a test patch and see if you are comfortable with booking the full treatment. We will put your mind at ease.

Frequently Asked Questions: Laser Hair Removal in Portland

If you are considering laser hair removal, you likely have questions about what to expect, how to prepare, and the results you can achieve. We have compiled the most common questions from our clients in Portland to help you feel confident and prepared for your journey toward smooth skin.

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light to target the pigment (melanin) in the hair follicle. The heat from the laser damages the follicle, which inhibits or delays future hair growth.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

While it is often referred to as “permanent hair removal,” it is more accurately described as permanent hair reduction. The treatment is FDA-cleared to significantly reduce hair growth (often up to 95%). While most hair will not grow back, occasional hormonal shifts (like pregnancy or menopause) or genetics may cause fine, light hair to return, which can be managed with periodic touch-up sessions.

Does laser hair removal hurt?

Most patients describe the sensation as a mild “snap” or “tingle,” similar to a rubber band against the skin. Because modern technology is much more advanced than older systems, most treatments are quick and very tolerable. If you have concerns about sensitivity, we are happy to discuss strategies to ensure your comfort.

How should I prepare for my appointment?

• Sun Avoidance: Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least four weeks before your session. Tanned skin increases the risk of side effects.
• Shaving: Please arrive with a fresh, same-day shave in the treatment area. This allows the laser to target the follicle effectively without burning surface hair.
• Avoid Waxing/Plucking: Stop waxing, plucking, or using depilatory creams at least four weeks before your appointment, as these methods remove the hair follicle that the laser needs to target.
• Skincare: For 24–48 hours before your session, avoid products that can sensitize the skin, such as retinoids or exfoliating scrubs.

Can I get laser hair removal if I have a darker skin tone?

Yes. Advances in technology, such as the equipment we use, allow us to safely and effectively treat a wider range of skin tones than ever before. During your consultation, we will assess your unique skin and hair type to customize your settings for optimal safety and results.

Are there any medications or conditions I should disclose?

It is crucial to inform us of any medications you are taking or medical conditions you have. Some medications can increase skin sensitivity, and we want to ensure your treatment plan is perfectly tailored to your health history.

How many sessions will I need?

Because hair grows in cycles, we can only treat hair that is in the active growth phase during your appointment. Most of our clients see the best results after 6 to 8 sessions, spaced about 4–6 weeks apart. Factors like hair density, the area being treated, and your individual growth cycle will influence your specific treatment plan.

What happens after the treatment?

You may notice some mild redness or swelling immediately after the procedure, which typically subsides within a few hours. It will take one to two weeks for the damaged follicles to shed the hair—this is a normal and positive sign that the treatment is working. We recommend protecting the treated area from direct sun exposure and using a broad-spectrum SPF to ensure the best healing.

Can I shave between sessions?

Yes! You are welcome to shave as much or as little as you like between appointments. We simply ask that you avoid any methods that remove hair from the root, such as waxing or plucking.