Underarm Hair Removal: Waxing vs. Laser

When it comes to summer prep, smooth underarms top the list. Whether you’re beach-bound, tank-top ready, or just want to stay fresh in the heat, removing underarm hair is a go-to grooming step for many. But with options like waxing and laser hair removal, how do you know what’s best for you?

Let’s break it down.

Waxing: A Quick Fix with Regular Upkeep

The Procedure:
Waxing removes hair from the root using hot wax applied to the underarms. Once the wax hardens, it's quickly pulled off, removing the hair with it.

Frequency:
Expect to wax every 4 weeks, depending on your hair growth cycle. You'll need some regrowth (i.e. visible hair) between appointments for the wax to grip properly.

Benefits:

• Smooth results for up to a month
• Less irritation than shaving
• Hair grow may grow back thinner over time

Drawbacks:

• Repeated treatments are needed
• Can be painful, especially at first
• Risk of ingrown hairs and irritation between sessions

Cost:
Typically $30 per session, or $360 per year if done at the suggested 4 week intervals, as an ongoing cost.

Laser Hair Removal: Long-Term Smoothness

The Procedure:
Laser hair removal uses light energy to target the pigment in the hair follicle, damaging it to reduce future growth. Treatments are quick—underarms can take as little as 10 minutes.

Frequency:
A full course requires 6 sessions spaced 6 weeks apart, potentially with the odd touch up/occasional maintenance if needed.

Benefits:

• Permanent reduction in hair growth
• No more maintenance —just soft, smooth skin once the initial treatment is complete
• Reduces ingrown hairs and irritation
• Safe, fast, and effective on most skin types
• Can shave between appointments until you experience noticable results so there is no visible regrowth phase

Drawbacks:

• Upfront investment
• Results can vary from 70%-95% reduction. Best results on dark hair/light skin, though newer lasers now cater to a broader range

Cost:
$75 per session or $399 for a package of 6 sessions, but long-term it saves you hundreds (even thousands) compared to a lifetime of waxing or shaving.

Your Smooth Summer Starts Now

If your goal is to be hair-free and carefree this summer, both waxing and laser offer great results—depending on your needs. Waxing is a reliable short-term fix, perfect for quick trips or last-minute events. But if you're ready to ditch the cycle of regrowth, irritation, and constant maintenance, laser hair removal is the smarter long-term choice.

Yes, the upfront cost is higher—but the results are virtually permanent, maintenance is minimal, and you’ll spend less over time. That means no more last-minute wax appointments, no more awkward regrowth phase between appointments, no more shaving nicks, and no more summer stress.

Invest once. Stay smooth forever.
Your underarms (and your future self) will thank you.

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