How bad is the laser pain compared to waxing?

How bad is the laser pain compared to waxing? You’ve been thinking about ditching the razor. Maybe the bikini area. Maybe the back. Or maybe you’re just tired of the constant battle with ingrowns and stubble. But then comes that question: “Does laser hurt more than waxing?” Let’s me set the record straight. Laser hair removal? It’s uncomfortable, but not unbearable. Waxing? That’s a short, sharp yank that pulls hair straight from the root. Every. Single. Time. Laser, on the other hand, is more of a heated flick. A sensation that lasts a split second per pulse. Especially when you’re treated with advanced technology like Cynosure medical-grade lasers, it’s fast, targeted and far more tolerable than most patients expect.

How bad is the laser pain compared to waxing?

Pain is subjective, of course. But side by side?

• Waxing: Think of hot wax, ripped off suddenly. You brace yourself for the sting every single strip.
  Sensitive areas (like shoulders, neck, or groin)? Even worse. It’s instant, but intense.
• Laser: With the Cynosure Elite+ system we use at our laser hair removal clinic in London, it’s more like a zap or the snap of a rubber band. Plus, cooling technology is built in, which helps reduce discomfort in real time. Some patients even doze off during treatment.

And unlike waxing, which you need to repeat every few weeks, laser hair removal offers long-term reduction. Meaning less hair, fewer sessions, and ultimately less pain over time.

Why most patients choose laser in the long run?

If you’re after smooth skin without the mess, pain, and constant maintenance, laser just makes sense. You don’t have to wait for hair to grow back (like with waxing). You don’t have to worry about irritation or raw skin. And once your course is complete, you’re looking at a major decrease in regrowth, if not total removal in some areas.

But what really changes is how you feel. You stop thinking about trimming, booking wax appointments, or hiding patches. You reclaim time, confidence, and comfort, without the sting.

So, is laser pain worse than waxing?

No. It’s actually the opposite. It’s faster. More controlled. Less messy. And miles ahead in results.

Want to see if it’s the right fit for your hair type and skin tone? Come in for a free consultation at our Oxford Circus clinic, where we’ll walk you through what to expect, map out a tailored plan, and even test a patch so you know exactly how it feels, before you commit.You’ve got better things to do than worry about body hair. And pain? That doesn’t need to be part of the process.

Or if you are ready to meet my team in person and would like to learn more about laser hair removal – Click here to book an appointment through our online diary.