There are two popular methods for bikini hair removal which are laser hair removal and waxing. Both of them have their pros and cons. They are done in different ways, feel different and most of the time are misunderstood.
Our clinical experts break down the differences between these 2 treatments. This is a useful post for those who want to try either of them.
So, bikini waxing is a treatment that removes the hair from the bikini like with a specific wax that can be warm or cool. Your technician will apply it on your skin and keep it there until it sticks to your hair and then it will be pulled quickly so it pulls all your hair from the skin.
Bikini laser hair removal is a treatment that offers similar results, but it’s done with laser. The light of the laser destroys the hair follicles from your bikini line area so that they can’t regrow hairs. A lot less painful than waxing, but let’s get into more details about the pros and cons of the two.
Is It Safe to Do Laser Hair Removal in the Bikini Area?
First of all, laser hair removal is an FDA-approved treatment. It’s safe if it’s done by an expert. This treatment is one of themost popular services. Modern lasers like GentleMax Pro Plus® by Candela come with cooling systems that protect the skin and make the treatment less painful.
Waxing is generally considered to be safe too, but it might come with higher risks like skin tearing, ingrown hairs, irritation and inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
If you have sensitive skin, laser technicians recommend laser hair removal.
How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?
The cost depends on multiple factors including the State and city you are in. If we take Chicago, for instance, according to the V&P Laser Hair Removal & Skin Care team, the cost for one session is$125, for two sessions $300, and for 3 sessions $550.
Other factors like the type of laser technicians use, the level of experience and if there are any package discounts will influence the cost.
Most clinics offer bundled pricing because laser requires multiple sessions and this makes it easier for patients to commit to a longer treatment.
If we talk about waxing, you should expect to pay somewhere around $40-$75 per visit, and this is both for bikini and brazilian.
One important thing to remember is that waxing must be done every 3-5 weeks. Laser requires 1-2 touch ups per year. It’s more expensive but it offers longer results.
Can Laser Completely Remove Pubic Hair?
Laser hair removal offers permanent hair reduction, not 100% permanent removal.
After a full treatment series:
Waxing does not reduce hair growth permanently. Hair always returns at full density.
How Many Sessions Does Laser Hair Removal Take on the Bikini Line?
Each laser hair removal treatment must be six weeks apart. This is because of the hair growth cycle. Laser treatments only work on hair that is actively growing.
The growth phase of the hair cycle is called anagen. It is the only time the hair and follicle connect. This allows the energy to pass from the former to the latter.
Since 20% of your hair is in the anagen phase, one session can target 20% of hair. Each successive session will treat an additional 20%.
The bikini line is a very hormonal area. The hair is darker, thicker and coarser. It is harder to remove. Thus, patients are likely to need additional sessions.
What Happens If I Shave 2 Hours Before Laser Hair Removal?
Shaving 2 hours before laser is generally acceptable, though most providers recommend shaving 12–24 hours before treatment.
If you shave too close to the appointment:
If you do not shave at all:
Never wax or pluck before laser, as this removes the hair follicle the laser needs to target.
Will My Pubic Hair Grow Back After Laser?
Yes—but differently.
After laser:
After waxing:
What Are the Negatives of Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is highly effective, but it is not perfect.
Potential downsides include:
By contrast, waxing negatives include:
Comparison Table
Final Ideas
Bikini area is one of the most sensitive areas of the body. Some people can handle waxing more than others, but generally speaking, laser is preferred more for this type of areas.
A U.S. nationally representative survey by the BMC Women’s Health reports how women remove pubic hair (which includes bikini area):
It’s important to note here that laser and waxing are pretty popular treatments overall. They might differ slightly based in the sensitive areas of the body, but in general, they are widely used by many women in America.
