Can You Wax in the Interim of Laser Hair Removal: Part One - Beauty Triangle

Waxing Between Laser Hair Treatment - Most people are unaware that waxing is the perfect solution to stay hair-free when laser courses are paused. Yet there are some occasions in which you may prefer waxing instead of the hassle of shaving or covering up during the summer mid-laser course.
Like many things, there are some essential guides to delve into beforehand. For this, we have taken the advice of our Experts at Strip Hair Removal Experts to help break these down. Let's dive into both hair removal processes separately.
Laser In Focus:
Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses specific wavelengths targeting, the melanin in hair follicles. The light is absorbed as heat, depleting the follicle, including the dermal papilla. The laser settings can be adjusted to suit different skin tones and hair colours to achieve optimal results. Laser works best during the anagen stage, which is the active growth phase of hair. Post-treatment, hair usually starts to shed within about two weeks.
Now let’s get stuck in to Wax:
Waxing is a hair removal method that pulls the hair out from the root, weakening the follicle over time. When waxing, you choose strip wax or hot wax, and again, it’s most effective during the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle. Post-waxing, hair generally regrows within four to six weeks. However, if your waxing is done repeatedly, it may lead to wear on the dermal papilla, potentially disrupting the normal hair growth cycle.
How Does Waxing Affect Your Laser Process?
Although laser hair removal and waxing have different functions, they both have one very similar result: they both affect the dermal papilla over time, which is essential for hair growth.
The dermal papilla is a small collection of cells under the hair follicle that contains blood vessels and provides nutrients to the hair.
This might sound technical, but a waxing session should not hinder any progress with laser hair removal; it can aid long-term goals.
Both methods work best in line with hair growth cycles and are performed in the anagen stage.
So, if you want to make the most of your summer, opting for an interim wax rather than shaving won't hinder your results. This is something we can get on board with!
Things to keep in mind:
1. Wait four to six weeks after your last laser treatment before having an interim waxing session. (depending on your personal hair growth) This allows the treated hair to shed naturally and reduces any risks associated with inflamed follicles post-laser treatment. (Don't skip this step!)
2. Use waxing as a temporary solution, not a long-term practice, while maintaining a laser course. This will allow you to safely soak up the sun without interfering with your hair removal process.
3. Before resuming your laser treatments, wait four to six weeks so your hair can regrow, giving the laser a target. (Any earlier and your therapist will turn you away)
4. If you're tanned, wait as long as necessary for your skin to return to the required tone before laser treatment. In the meantime, you can turn to waxing if needed.
5. Consult with your laser specialist about any personal changes to ensure they align with their techniques and aftercare guidelines. Always follow the recommended aftercare protocols to avoid any side effects.
Why Waxing Is Your Go-To In Summer Months:
It's generally best to avoid laser hair removal during the summer unless your skin is well-protected from the sun.
If you have a skin type of three or above on the Fitzpatrick scale, you might tan easily, but you also face a higher risk of issues if you have laser treatment too soon afterward. This can lead to problems, such as the risk of skin damage or, in extreme circumstances, pigmentation.
However, this can also affect clients on the lower end of the Fitzpatrick scale.
To prevent the dreaded game of "hide-and-seek” with the sun, requesting an interim wax with your therapist will give you the benefits of both hair removal methods, safely.
Doing this with your usual therapist ensures they have visibility of the hair removal process and eliminates any unwanted surprises.
Other reasons to turn to waxing:
Pregnancy
While laser hair removal is generally safe, there is limited data on its safety during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can affect hair growth, leading to increased or decreased hair during this time. Professionals will cease laser treatment during this time. When this happens, waxing is a safe alternative that doesn't require work from you. Therapists will adjust products and techniques to accommodate the procedure.
Cost
Life can throw surprises your way, which might affect your luxury treatments like laser hair removal. When this happens, the more affordable solution to maintain hair removal is waxing. Its overall benefits are similar, but it is much cheaper. Waxing can be a reliable option that won’t reverse any progress you’ve made.
If you are due a summer holiday or need to take a break from laser for another reason, wax can be a convenient interim solution. Remember to adhere to the recommended timelines between treatments and consult with your specialist to ensure the best outcomes for your skin and hair removal journey.
With care and consideration, these two treatments can coexist infrequently in your removal process.