LASER ME · ST. LOUIS SINCE 2000
Laser Hair Removal vs. Waxing in St. Louis
Less upkeep starts with the right plan.
If you’re ready to move beyond regular waxing appointments, start with a clear comparison. Learn how the methods differ, what ongoing care looks like, and whether GentleMax Pro laser hair removal fits your skin, hair, and goals.
What is the difference between laser and waxing?
Waxing pulls hair from the root for temporary removal. Laser hair removal targets pigment in the hair to reduce future growth over a series of treatments. The goal at Laser Me is permanent hair reduction, with maintenance as needed.
Explore GentleMax Pro laser hair removal or find out about candidacy.
Compare the two approaches.
| What matters to you | GentleMax Pro laser hair removal | Waxing |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Light targets pigment in the hair to reduce future growth. | Wax pulls hair from the root. It does not remove the follicle. |
| The goal | Permanent hair reduction, with maintenance as needed. | Temporary smoothness; repeat as hair regrows. |
| Your routine | A planned treatment series, progress checks, and touch-ups when recommended. | Recurring appointments, with enough regrowth for the wax to grip. |
| Hair color | Very light blonde, white, and gray hair cannot be treated effectively with our laser. Red hair may respond poorly. | Does not depend on hair pigment; skin suitability still matters. |
| Comfort | Brief warmth or snapping may occur. GentleMax Pro cryogen cooling supports comfort. | A pulling sensation during removal; comfort varies by person and area. |
| Cost over time | Depends on your areas, series, response, and maintenance needs. Pricing is reviewed at consultation. | Recurring costs depend on your areas and how often you wax. |
Why choose laser at Laser Me?
Candela GentleMax Pro
Our system combines Alexandrite and Nd:YAG laser wavelengths. Your provider selects an approach for your skin and hair, with cryogen cooling to support comfort.
An established local practice
Women-owned, Laser Me has served St. Louis since 2000. We received St. Louis Magazine’s 2024 A-List Readers’ Choice recognition for Hair Removal.
People behind your plan
Get to know our owners, nursing and aesthetic team, and medical director, Dr. Jonathan Hodor, D.O. Your provider is selected for the treatment being performed.
Think beyond the next appointment.
Compare the routine you have now with the upkeep you want in the future. Consider the frequency of appointments, time spent managing regrowth, and the maintenance each option may require.
At Laser Me, we build your plan area by area and review personalized pricing during your consultation. Your plan depends on your goals and response; maintenance can remain part of laser care.
Start with facial areas, underarms, Brazilian, legs, or another treatment area. Choose one or combine several.
Ready to switch from waxing?
Tell us about your current routine.
Let us know when you last waxed, the areas you want to treat, and what you want to change. We’ll assess your hair and skin before recommending a starting date.
Prepare for your visit.
Follow our preparation instructions, including avoiding waxing or plucking as directed, shaving the night before or the day of treatment, and avoiding sun exposure and tanning products for 14–21 days beforehand. Tell us about medications or health changes.
Read preparation and aftercare guidance →
Understand your series.
Our standard plan includes eight sessions: six to build reduction and two to refine remaining growth. We review progress throughout the series and discuss maintenance as needed.
Laser vs. waxing questions
Is laser hair removal better than waxing?
It depends on your goals and candidacy. Laser may suit you if you want long-term reduction and less routine upkeep. Waxing provides temporary removal and may suit hair colors our laser cannot effectively treat.
Does laser hair removal cost less than waxing?
It depends on your actual treatment plan and ongoing routine. We do not promise that laser pays for itself. Your consultation gives you personalized pricing so you can make an informed comparison.
Can I wax between laser sessions?
Avoid waxing, plucking, or threading before and between laser treatments as directed. These methods pull out the hair your laser treatment needs to target. Shaving is the usual way to manage hair between appointments.
How long should I wait after waxing to start laser?
Tell us when and where you last waxed before scheduling treatment. We need suitable regrowth beneath the skin and will recommend when to begin. Follow your provider’s preparation instructions.
Does laser hair removal hurt more than waxing?
Comfort is personal. Laser hair removal can be surprisingly comfortable with GentleMax Pro cryogen cooling. You may feel brief warmth or a snap; waxing produces a pulling sensation. Neither experience is the same for everyone.
How many laser sessions will I need?
Laser Me’s standard plan includes eight sessions: six to build reduction and two to refine remaining growth. Appointments are typically five to eight weeks apart, with timing adjusted for your area and response. Yearly touch-ups may be recommended as needed.
Is laser hair removal permanent?
The ultimate goal is permanent hair reduction, with maintenance as needed. Individual response varies; some hair may regrow. Your provider will discuss realistic expectations for your treatment areas.
Is IPL the same as laser hair removal?
No. IPL uses a range of light wavelengths, while a laser delivers a specific wavelength. Laser Me uses Candela GentleMax Pro for laser hair removal. Our Candela Nordlys IPL photofacial service addresses selected skin concerns and has a different purpose.
Make room for less maintenance.
Tell us which areas you have in mind. We’ll help you understand candidacy, your treatment plan, and personalized pricing before you decide on the next step.
Conveniently located just 1.5 miles from I-270 on Manchester Road, in the Town & Country–Des Peres area.
Individual results vary. Laser hair removal aims for permanent hair reduction; additional treatment or maintenance may be needed. Your provider discusses suitability, risks, and aftercare with you.
Learn more about hair removal methods from the American Academy of Dermatology and Cleveland Clinic.