Season 3, Episode 14 of Sex and the City sees our stars on the opposite coast in sunny Los Angeles, and the popular presence of bathing suits leads Carrie to immediately begin her narration with an introduction to the removal of a familiar friend: pubic hair.
Following a Brazillian wax session, Carrie actually winds up feeling awkward when, to her surprise, all her hair is removed. This season aired smack dab in the middle of Y2k; flash forward 23 years, and now, pubic hair removal offers another route with lasers. With the FDA approving the first laser hair removal device in the mid-90s, it makes sense that our characters would have more to say about tried and true waxing, but since then, laser hair removal has become more and more common.
There are several reasons to consider laser pubic hair removal — discomfort, maintenance, or general aesthetic —, but it’s important to do the research before making the leap to try something new. So, if you’re a college student looking to see if the price tag is worth it, here’s your guide to the process, pros and cons, to ultimately help you decide what you want to do.
- It’s Not a One-and-Done Kind Of Thing.
-
While your instinct may be to laser because you’re tired of frequently shaving or making waxing appointments, laser hair removal would also require some commitment with multiple sessions. The number of sessions needed depends on the person, but the minimum is typically six sessions, and the maximum could be around twelve. It’s also worth noting that spas typically wait four to six weeks between appointments, meaning you’ll have to be patient while waiting to see results. If you’re planning to do the removal in time for summer or any certain event, you’ll need to plan ahead.
- It’s Not Fully Permanent, but the Hair Changes.
-
Lasering is highly effective, and it’s typical for months or years to pass before the hair grows back, with recommended maintenance being at least once every couple of years. This is convenient for those eager to do the temporary work and effort, and once it’s done, relax and forget about it. And for those like Carrie who may not want an entirely bare vag, even if some hairs sprout here and there, they will not be as coarse or consistent.
- You Might Need to Save Up.
-
It’s probably no surprise that these sessions don’t run cheap. Brazilian treatments, which are the removal of hair from the labia to around your anus, may run a bit higher than the standard V-shape, but prices can range from $250-$350 per treatment. Some quick math, that’s anywhere from $1,500-$3,000 (six-twelve sessions at 250 a pop.) While this could save you money in the long run if you already wax frequently, those who shave at home should expect to shed some cash. It’s important to not just latch onto the cheapest spa, as you want to ensure they are using quality lasers, so do some digging, check reviews, and find a place that works for you.
- It’s Become More POC- Friendly in recent years.
-
Initially, laser hair removal was not recommended for those with darker skin or even very light hair since the laser targets follicles based on the contrast of pigmentation between the hair and skin. However, there are board-certified dermatologists who specialize in treating darker skin tones, and this should be prioritized to ensure you’re receiving safe and effective treatment. But, having a darker complexion could mean more sessions, most likely closer to the eight-to-ten range.
- It’s a decision only you can make.
-
Everyone’s relationship with their body is different, but opting to change your appearance can be an intimate and empowering decision, as long as you are doing it to make yourself feel good. While not permanent, the effects last a while, so take the time to do a consultation, and if you decide to move forward with the treatment, check in with yourself to make sure this is what you want. You deserve to feel comfortable or sexy (or both), and prioritizing yourself is always the way to go when it comes to beauty.
Whether you like to embrace the bush like me or welcome the bare, laser hair removal is an option you can feel free to explore. Talk to others who have had the treatment done to get their firsthand opinions and recommendations in order to ultimately find what works best for you.