Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
For many people, smooth, hair-free skin has long been more than just an aesthetic ideal – it stands for a well-groomed appearance, self-confidence and well-being. The interest in effective hair removal methods is correspondingly high. But with so many options available, the question quickly arises: Which method really suits me? How long do the results last, how high are the costs and how much pain is involved?
In this first part of our big hair removal comparison, we introduce you to the classic methods that have been in use for decades – from quick shaving to thorough waxing and trimming. We highlight all the important criteria so that you can better decide which method suits your personal needs.
📌 The second part deals with modern technologies such as IPL and laser – including our professional assessment from Laser ONE Institute.
1. SHAVING
✅ Advantages of the method
Shaving is one of the quickest and easiest methods of hair removal. It can be carried out at any time and is particularly practical for short-term results. Ideal for beginners and people with little time.
❌ Disadvantages of the method
One disadvantage of shaving is the short shelf life – stubble is often visible again after just one or two days. It can also cause skin irritation such as razor burn, redness or minor cuts, especially on sensitive skin. Ingrown hairs also occur frequently, especially with improper technique or inadequate preparation.
💰 Costs
Shaving is one of the cheapest methods of hair removal. Disposable razors are available in supermarkets or drugstores for just a few euros. Shaving foam or shaving gel also cost very little. Nevertheless, the expenditure can add up over time, as the products have to be purchased regularly.
⏳ Durability of the method
The effect is very short-lived – the hair is usually noticeable again after just one or two days. The first stubble quickly becomes noticeable, making the skin look rough. If you want smooth skin, you have to shave almost every day.
🩹 Pain
Shaving is considered a painless method. Nevertheless, sensitive skin may experience minor irritation, burning or cuts – especially if blunt blades are used or if no shaving foam is used. With the right care, however, such side effects can be easily avoided.
2. WAXING / WAXING
✅ Advantages of the method
Waxing removes the hair at the root, leaving the skin smooth for longer – usually for two to four weeks. Over time, the hair growth can become finer and less noticeable, which makes the method particularly interesting for recurring applications.
❌ Disadvantages of the method
The main disadvantage is the pain, especially when first applied or in sensitive areas. There is also a risk of ingrown hairs and skin irritation, especially if the wax is not applied correctly. The hair must also have a certain length so that the wax can take hold.
💰 Costs
Professional waxing in the studio costs between €25 and €60, depending on the area of the body. Prices can be higher for larger areas such as legs or backs. Home sets are cheaper, but often deliver less reliable results.
⏳ Durability of the method
Waxing ensures smoothness for several weeks – about 3 to 4 weeks. The hair grows back finer, but no permanent reduction is to be expected.
🩹 Pain
The pain is caused by the abrupt pulling out of the hair with the root. The intensity varies considerably depending on the area of the body and personal sensitivity to pain. The treatment can be particularly unpleasant in sensitive areas such as the bikini line or armpits. Many people get used to it over time, as the hair grows back finer and the irritation decreases.
3. SUGARING
✅ Advantages of the method
Sugaring is considered a gentler alternative to waxing, as the sugar paste is gentler on the skin and is removed in the direction of growth. As a result, the treatment is usually less painful and reduces the risk of skin irritation and ingrown hairs. Sugaring is also based on natural ingredients and is suitable for sensitive skin types.
❌ Disadvantages of the method
Despite all the advantages, sugaring is not painless. Removing hair can be noticeably uncomfortable, especially when using for the first time or with thicker hair. The procedure takes longer than classic waxing as it is carried out more precisely and requires more attention – especially for larger areas.
💰 Costs
Sugaring costs a similar amount to waxing in the studio – around €30 to €60 per treatment. Some practice is required for home kits or homemade sugar pastes.
⏳ Durability of the method
Sugaring also leaves the skin hair-free for around 3 to 4 weeks. Regular use can lead to weaker hair growth in the long term, but not to complete removal.
🩹 Pain
Sugaring is often perceived as less painful than waxing, as the sugar paste is removed in the direction of hair growth. Nevertheless, the treatment is not completely painless – removing hair can be particularly unpleasant the first time it is applied. Compared to other methods, however, sugaring is much gentler on the skin and better tolerated.
4. EPILIZE
✅ Advantages of the method
Similar to waxing and sugaring, epilating removes the hair along with the root. The results last for several weeks and the devices can be used conveniently at home. With increasing use, the hair often grows back finer and slower.
❌ Disadvantages of the method
The application is not only time-consuming, but also very painful, especially the first time. Many also report ingrown hairs and irritation, especially if used incorrectly or with insufficient care.
💰 Costs
A high-quality epilator costs between €50 and €150. In the long term, however, this method is cheaper than regular studio treatments.
⏳ Durability of the method
After epilation, the skin usually remains smooth for up to four weeks. However, the duration of action depends on skin type and hair growth.
🩹 Pain
The treatment is considered to be very painful, especially in sensitive areas such as the armpits or bikini line. However, the pain usually subsides over time.
5. TRIMMING
✅ Advantages of the method
Trimming is quick, painless and gentle on the skin. Ideal for anyone who only wants to trim their body hair but not remove it completely – for example in the genital area, on the arms or for a well-groomed beard contour on the face.
❌ Disadvantages of the method
As the hair is only shortened but not removed during trimming, the skin structure remains visible and does not feel smooth. The method is therefore unsuitable for a hair-free complexion, especially as the appearance does not change with regular trimming.
💰 Costs
Electric trimmers are available from as little as €20 and last for several years with good care. There are hardly any follow-up costs.
⏳ Durability of the method
As the hair is only shortened, the stubble is often visible again after 1-2 days. If you want smooth skin in the long term, you should use other methods.
🩹 Pain
Trimming is completely painless and is particularly suitable for sensitive skin areas. As the hair is not torn out or cut, there is no skin irritation or minor injuries.
6. NEEDLE EPILATION / ELECTROEPILATION
✅ Advantages of the method
Needle epilation is currently the only hair removal method recognized as permanent by medical associations. In this process, each hair is selectively cauterized at the root using a fine probe. This method is particularly suitable for small areas and individual, stubborn hairs, e.g. on the face or moles, where other methods are unsuitable.
❌ Disadvantages of the method
As each hair is treated individually, electroepilation is very time-consuming. It is therefore unsuitable for large areas. In addition, several sessions are necessary as not all hairs are in the right growth phase at the same time. The treatment may only be carried out by trained specialists, otherwise there is a risk of skin damage.
💰 Costs
The costs are usually charged by the minute and average around €2 to €4 per minute in the studio. Smaller areas such as the chin or upper lip usually require sessions of 15-30 minutes. The total cost depends heavily on the number of hairs and the extent of the treatment.
⏳ Durability of the method
Needle epilation can achieve truly permanent hair removal if carried out correctly. In contrast to IPL or laser, it can also successfully remove light, gray or red hair, as it works independently of the melanin in the hair.
🩹 Pain
The treatment can be slightly to significantly painful, depending on the sensitivity and body part. There is a brief burning or stinging sensation when the electrical impulses are applied. In professional studios, the finest needles and soothing care are usually used to minimize the sensation of pain.
Conclusion & outlook
Whether shaving, waxing or epilation – classic hair removal offers a wide range of options. But they all have one thing in common: the hair comes back. For a truly permanent solution, it’s worth taking a look at modern technologies such as IPL and, above all, laser treatment. In the second part of our comparison, we show you which method really works permanently – and why more and more people are relying on professional laser treatment at Laser ONE.
➡️ Read on now: Hair removal in comparison (part 2): Modern methods such as IPL & laser – what works permanently
