Waxing vs. Laser Hair Removal in 2025: A Look Ahead

When it comes to choosing a long-term hair removal method, two options often stand out: waxing and laser hair removal. Both provide longer-lasting results compared to shaving, but they differ significantly in terms of cost, duration of results, and overall effectiveness. 

In this blog, we’ll explore what to expect from these methods in 2025 and help you determine which one might be the best fit for your needs.

Table of Contents

• What is Waxing?
• How Long Does Hair Removal Last with Waxing?
• How Much Does Waxing Cost?
• Does Waxing Work for Everyone?
• What is Laser Hair Removal?
• Does Laser Hair Removal Stop Hair Regrowth?
• How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?
• Does Laser Hair Removal Work for Everyone?
• What’s Next for Waxing & Laser Hair Removal?
• Final Thoughts

What is Waxing?

Waxing is a hair removal method that involves applying warm wax to the skin and then quickly pulling it off, removing hair from the root. 

It has quickly become a very popular method because of its many benefits, including long-lasting results, gentle skin exfoliation, slower hair regrowth, weaker hair regrowth, and reduction of ingrown hairs.

Wax can come in many forms, including hard wax, soft wax, androll-on wax.

Nova's luxury soft wax collection features both traditional and  roll-on formats, all requiring strips for use. Choose the style that best suits your technique for consistently smooth results.

Waxing can sometimes be painful but with practice, a good routine, and proper pre care & after-care, many waxers find it to be tolerable. 

How Long Does Hair Removal Last With Waxing?

Hair removal with waxing lasts anywhere from 3-6 weeks. There is a wide range of time, especially if you’re transitioning to waxing from other hair removal methods like shaving because of the hair growth stages.

Developing a good waxing routine and staying consistent with waxing can make the results last longer. It’s ideal to wax hair when it is in the anagen stage because it will remove from the root and result in finer and slower regrowth!

READ: Hair Growth Cycles and Waxing

How Much Does Waxing Cost?

The cost of waxing is dependent on a few factors! The quality of wax and wax supplies you invest in can raise your costs; but, it’s important to remember that quality matters if you want good long-lasting results. 

If you’re waxing at home and looking to buy wax you can expect to pay anywhere from $1.24 per ounce. to $2.34 per ounce. 

If you’re seeking a waxing service, the cost can vary based on where you live and the type of area being waxed. 

All in all, waxing is a low-cost way to get hairless smooth skin! 

READ: How Much Does Waxing Cost? 

Does Waxing Work for Everyone? 

Generally waxing is a great option for anyone looking to remove their hair; but, it’s important to do your research, making sure the ingredients are gentle on your skin.

One of the best things about investing in a high-quality wax formula like Nova Wax is its versatility. When our founder Liz Lugo traveled to Spain to meet with chemists, her goal was to create a formula that could be used on all skin types.

Our formula is made with clean nourishing ingredients and can be used on any part of the body and any skin type. We also offer a specialfragrance-free waxoption, to provide extra peace of mind to those who might suffer from scent sensitivities. 

Compared to other hair removal methods, like shaving which may cause ingrowns for those with coarser hair, or laser which can only be done on certain types of hair, waxing is a solid option. 

What is Laser Hair Removal? 

Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated light to remove hair. The laser emits a beam that targets the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicles, damaging them to inhibit or delay future hair growth.

Laser hair removal is a great method for those wanting a more permanent solution to hair removal.

It’s worth noting that It can sometimes be painful, with many recipients describing the sensation as “rubber band snapping.”  

READ: How to Treat and Remove Ingrown Cysts

Does Laser Hair Removal Stop Hair Regrowth?

Laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth, but it doesn't completely stop regrowth despite the common belief that it does. 

Statistics show that laser treatment can reduce hair growth by 70-90% for many individuals, but full hair removal is not guaranteed.

To achieve optimal results, multiple sessions of laser hair removal are recommended. The average number of sessions it takes ranges from 6-8. 

READ: How to Use Roll-on Wax: A Beginner's Guide

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?

The cost of laser hair removal can vary widely depending on several factors, including treatment area, number of sessions, geographic location, provider expertise, and the type of laser used.

As a rough estimate, you might expect to pay:

• Small areas (upper lip, chin): $100-$300 per session
• Medium areas (underarms, bikini line): $200-$500 per session
• Large areas (legs, back): $500-$1000 per session

There are general estimates and you should always check with providers in your area to see how much cost varies.

A full course of treatment usually requires 6-8 sessions,so the total cost can range from about $600 for a small area to $8000 or more for larger areas.

Usually more metropolitan or urban areas will charge a more premium price. The type of laser also affects cost, with more advanced lasers being more expensive.

Laser hair removal is more of an initial upfront cost compared to waxing; but, since it is a more permanent method it is a good long-term investment.

There’s a lot less maintenance compared to waxing as well.

Does Laser Hair Removal Work for Everyone? 

Many factors come into play when deciding whether or not you’re a good candidate for laser hair removal. Those factors should always be discussed with your technician prior to treatment.

Traditionally, people with light skin and dark hair have been ideal candidates, as the laser targets the pigment in the hair.

Additionally, dark, coarse hair responds best to laser treatment. Light blonde, red, gray hair, and fine hair is generally less responsive.

Laser hair removal is more effective on coarse hair because coarse hair typically contains more melanin than fine hair and since the laser works by targeting melanin in the hair follicle, more pigmented hair absorbs more of the laser energy.

Coarse hair also grows from larger follicles, so the laser has more surface area to target and damage more easily. 

Since coarse hair is so noticeable, it’s also more of a drastic effect when it’s lasered. 

READ: Benefits of Using Hard Wax

What’s Next for Waxing & Laser Hair Removal?

As we look ahead to 2025, advancements in technology and product formulations are set to enhance both waxing and laser hair removal methods. For waxing, expect to see more innovative wax formulas designed for sensitive skin, making the process even more comfortable and effective. Eco-friendly and vegan options will likely become more mainstream, catering to a growing demand for sustainable beauty practices.

 

In the realm of laser hair removal, new laser technologies are being developed to work more effectively on a broader range of skin tones and hair types. These advancements will make laser hair removal a viable option for more people, potentially closing the gap between the effectiveness of waxing and laser treatments.

Whether you choose waxing or laser hair removal, 2025 promises to bring more personalized, efficient, and accessible options for long-term hair removal.

Final Thoughts

Waxing and laser hair removal each have their own benefits! 

If you’re looking for a gentler, more cost-effective method that is effective on any skin type and achievable at home, then waxing is a good choice.

Laser hair removal, on the other hand, doesn’t require as much maintenance but has more longer-lasting permanent results. Just remember that it’s important to consider  skin type and hair type when making such a large investment!