Laser Hair Removal Vs Shaving

Although the return of warmer weather is welcome in most situations, for many people it also means the need to increase their hair removal procedures.  This can be considered tedium and drudgery by many, whereas for others it can actually cause pain and skin sensitivity.  Is there any way to avoid this torture this coming spring and summer?  If you dread shaving and all that’s associated with it, you might want to consider laser hair removal.  To help you figure out if it might be for you, we’ve put together an article that compares laser hair removal vs shaving.

How They Work

Shaving is simply the process of running a sharp blade across the surface of your skin where you want the hair removed.  And while this is only supposed to remove the hair, it can be very easy to nick and cut the skin as well.  Laser hair removal, on the other hand, uses laser light to penetrate the skin’s surface and destroy the hair growing follicles below.

How Long They Last

Depending on personal differences, hair that’s been shaven can start growing back from within a few hours to several days.  To keep the skin surface free of hair it may be necessary to shave daily.  With laser hair removal, initial treatments will need to take place every three or four weeks, but eventually the time it takes for hair to start growing back will become longer.  Those with fine, light coloured hair may experience permanent hair removal.

Benefits

Shaving can be easily done without the help of a professional which makes it convenient.  Laser hair removal, on the other hand, is much longer lasting, if not permanent.  You also don’t have to worry about nicks and cuts that could possibly get infected.

Drawbacks

Shaving needs to be done over and over.  And over and over again!  It’s possible that sensitive skin can be damaged with nicks, cuts, razor burn, ingrown hairs and infections.  Laser hair removal treatments require setting up an appointment that will require more time than shaving in your home.  Some people experience pain during laser hair removal, although most liken it to being repeatedly snapped with a rubber band.  

Cost

Shaving supplies are often seemingly expensive.  However, there’s been an online movement towards supplying shaving supplies for a fraction of the price.  A single laser hair removal treatment can cost several hundred dollars.  However, you can often purchase a package of several treatments for a discount.