Waxing, Laser, Threading…What’s the Best For Your Skin?

For those with facial hair, there are many methods for removal. Here are the pros and cons to waxing, laser and threading for hair removal in regards to how they affect your skin.

Since I’m not a hair removal specialist, I’m not going to give my thoughts on which method is best because honestly, they can all be effective. To determine which process is best for you, have a thorough consultation with your hair removal professional.

WAXING

Pros:

–Waxing is a great form of exfoliation. The wax lifts off a few layers of surface, dry skin cells so the skin feels baby-smooth afterward…

Cons:

–If you use Retin-A or retinol products, it can remove skin (especially if the wax is too hot), which can take weeks to heal.  I’ve seen it happen, and it’s not pretty, so you must discontinue use at least one week prior to waxing.

-Breakouts can occur post-waxing because the hair follicle becomes vulnerable and inflamed. Applying a 1% Hydrocortisone cream post-waxing may be effective in preventing breakouts or irritation.

-For those with red, thin, sensitive skin, the skin can stay red for a few hours post-waxing. Applying ice or a frozen bag of peas can help lower the temperature of the skin to calm redness.

THREADING

Pros:

-Minimal post-threading redness as compared with waxing.

-For those who use Retin-A or retinol products, you should have no problems with the risk of skin removal.

Cons:

-Similarly to waxing, breakouts can occur post-threading because the hair follicle becomes vulnerable and inflamed. Applying a 1% Hydrocortisone cream post-waxing may be effective in preventing breakouts or irritation.

LASER HAIR REDUCTION (formerly called laser hair removal until term was deemed misleading since hair can only be reduced)

Pros:

-Minimal post-laser redness.

Cons:

–For medium to dark skins, the laser can stimulate melanin activity resulting in brown discoloration. Be sure to have a thorough consultation before you take the plunge. (Read more about skin discoloration and brown spots.)

-Potential risk of injury (burning) of the epidermis (skin).

Got a rash or irritation from waxing or threading? One way to reduce and calm irritation is to apply a thin coat of the stomach medication Milk of Magnesia to the area and leave on for 15 minutes. Repeat up to three times a day until the rash dissipates. What’s the secret? It contains the ingredient Magnesium Hydroxide, which is an excellent anti-inflammatory.

Renée Rouleau

Celebrity Esthetician & Skincare Expert
As an esthetician trained in cosmetic chemistry, Renée Rouleau has spent 30 years researching skin, educating her audience, and building an award-winning line of products. Her hands-on experience as an esthetician and trusted skin care expert has created a real-world solution — products that are formulated for nine different types of skin so your face will get exactly what it needs to look and feel its best. Trusted by celebrities, editors, bloggers, and skincare obsessives around the globe, her vast real-world knowledge and constant research are why Marie Claire calls her “the most passionate skin practitioner we know.”