For many people, unsightly body hair is a nuisance they want gone. Shaving, waxing, plucking – we go through great lengths to remove unwanted hair. But what are the best longer-lasting options? In this post we’ll do a hair removal creams vs. laser comparison—two popular choices that offer more permanent solutions.
What Are Hair Removal Creams?
Hair removal creams, also called depilatories, are topical products that work by breaking down the structure of hair strands. They contain powerful chemicals that are able to dissolve hair below the surface of the skin, effectively getting rid of hair temporarily.
Hair removal creams come in easy-to-apply formulations like gels, lotions and powders. To use them, you simply apply the product evenly across the desired area, wait 5-10 minutes, then wipe or rinse away. The hair also wipes away with the product. It’s fast, convenient and you can do it in the comfort of your own home.
However, hair removal creams do have some downsides:
- Results only last 1-3 days before hair starts to regrow. You need to reapply frequently.
- Can cause skin irritation, rashes or chemical burns if left on too long. Must be tested on a small patch of skin first.
- Not effective on coarse or very thick hair. Works better on fine, thin hair.
- Can have a strong, unpleasant chemical odor.
Overall hair removal creams offer a quick, inexpensive and non-permanent way to remove hair. The effects are short-lived though and may not suit thicker hair.
Understanding Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses concentrated beams of laser light to remove hair follicles. It works by targeting the pigment inside hair follicles to damage them enough to slow and prevent future growth, while avoiding damage to the surrounding skin.
It’s a long-term solution that achieves permanent hair reduction over several treatments. Most people see a significant, lasting reduction after an average of 3-7 sessions.
Some major advantages of laser hair removal include:
- Long-lasting – up to 90% permanent hair reduction is achievable if enough treatments are done
- Precise – lasers selectively target dark, coarse hairs while avoiding the skin around it
- Fast treatments – each session takes just 10-20 minutes depending on the area
- Fewer ingrown hairs – prevents regrowth from below the skin
Laser hair removal does have some limitations as well:
- Results take time – requires multiple treatments over several weeks or months
- Doesn’t work for white, gray, blonde or red hair
- Possible side effects like redness, swelling, blistering if settings are too high
- Expensive – costs range from $200 to $1000 per treatment
For long term hair removal, though, medical laser treatments deliver better and longer lasting results compared to creams. The key is completing the recommended number of sessions for each area.
Hair Removal Creams vs. Laser Hair Removal: Key Differences
Now that we’ve covered the basics of depilatory creams and laser hair removal, let’s recap the main differences:
Speed
- Hair removal creams offer instant results in as little as 5 minutes. Just apply, wait, and wipe off.
- Laser hair removal takes much longer – you need multiple treatments spaced 3-6 weeks apart. It takes months to complete.
Convenience
- Creams can be used in the comfort and privacy of home. Minimal effort required.
- Lasers must be administered at a clinic by a technician. You need to book appointments.
Cost
- Depilatory creams range from $5 to $50 for a kit. Very budget friendly!
- A full course of laser hair removal costs hundreds to thousands of dollars. It’s an investment.
Longevity
- Creams only remove hair for 1-3 days before regrowth starts.
- Laser hair removal provides up to 90% permanent hair reduction. The results can last for years.
Side Effects
- Chemical creams can irritate skin and cause rashes or burns if left on too long
- Laser has minimal risks although blistering and scarring are possible side effects
Ideal For
- Creams work best for small areas of fine, thin hair
- Lasers work better for large areas with thick, coarse hair like the legs, arms, and bikini area
As you can see, creams provide a fast, inexpensive short-term solution while medical laser hair removal is better for long-lasting results on thicker, darker hair across larger body areas.
Which is Better – Hair Removal Creams or Laser?
So which method reigns supreme – depilatory creams or laser removal? As with many things in beauty and cosmetics, the answer depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a quick recap of key factors to help choose the best option:
Creams Are Better If:
- You have thin, fine hair
- Want to remove hair from small areas (upper lip, chin etc)
- Are on a tight budget
- Prefer quick, convenient at-home treatments
- Have sensitive skin
Try: Sally Hansen Creme Hair Remover Kit
Laser Is Better If:
- You have thick, coarse dark hair
- Want to remove hair from larger areas (underarms, bikini line, legs, chest)
- Want longer-lasting, more permanent results
- Don’t mind spending more money
- Want fewer ingrown hairs
- Have chronic razor burn or waxing irritation
Try: Silk’n Infinity 400,000 Galvanic System
The Bottom Line
When it comes to removing unwanted hair, creams offer an accessible and budget-friendly solution that works well for finer hair on small areas. The results only last a few days though.
For coarser hair over larger regions where longer-lasting results are desired, medical laser hair removal delivers better permanent reduction. Although pricier, lasers significantly cut back on thickness and density of hair growth over time. I sincerely hope you find this “Hair Removal Creams vs. Laser comparison” article helpful.