Shaving can cause irritation and dry skin conditions, plus the fact that once you start shaving your body hair you have to keep shaving at least once a week to keep your skin soft and hairless.

Shaving is quick and inexpensive.

Stubble appears within 1-2 days.

There is risk of irritation to the skin, and accidental cuts.

Waxing is another temporary fix to hair removal but hair growth reappears after 3-6 weeks.

Not as irritating as shaving.

Because it removes hair from the root, it takes longer for the hair to grow out.

Hair grows in softer and the hair shaft becomes thinner with repeat waxing.

You only have to wax about once a month.

It can be done at home, but is painful. It is much easier - though more expensive - to have hair removed by a professional.

Laser Hair Removal

The permanent solution for removing unwanted hair is Laser Hair Removal.

Advantages of Laser Hair Removal

Some consumers have experienced long-lasting hair removal or permanent hair reduction.

Considered safe if performed properly.

Useful for large areas such as backs or legs.

Regrowth can come back lighter in colour or finer in texture.

Light-skinned people with dark hair have the best results.

Disadvantages of Laser Hair Removal

Long-term data on safety and effectiveness have not been accurately established.

Response rates have not been established.

Regrowth rates have not been accurately established and cannot be predicted due to numerous variables.

Generally not as effective on unpigmented (gray) hairs and red or blond hair.

Must be used very cautiously (if at all) on darker skin tones or on consumers who tan themselves.

Improper treatment can cause burns, lesions, skin discoloration lasting several months, or patchy/patterned regrowth.

Recent data suggest other skin structures are often affected by laser irradiation, and long-term effects of this constitute an unknown risk.

Requires eye protection.

Can be expensive.

Some find treatment painful.

Regulation varies by state, so inadequate controls exist to ensure competent practitioners.

Some consumers, even ideal candidates, do not respond to treatment.