Is Getting a Leg Wax Worth It? We Break Down Everything From Cost to Results

For most people, the largest area of hair– other than their head– is their legs. So, it’s no wonder why so many opt for waxing. This hair removal method can help keep your legs smoother for much longer when compared to other practices such as shaving. While the length between waxes is favorable, you may be wondering whether waxing is worth the cost. And should you go to the salon or spa for the treatment, or is it best done yourself in the comfort of your own home?

To help you figure out whether leg waxing is for you, we spoke to dermatologists, Marisa Garshick and Blair Murphy-Rose for the expert take on the hair removal method. Plus, we break down everything from the cost and preparation requirements to the results so you can make an informed decision.

The Costs

• At Home: Do it yourself waxing kits cost between $25-$100.
• Salon or Spa: Expect to pay $30-$55 for a half leg (ankle to knee or knee to thighs, not including the bikini zone — both legs) or $45-$100 for a full leg (ankle to thighs, not including the bikini zone — both legs). That’s not counting gratuity (usually 15-20% of base service price) and any tax that might be added by your state.

Preparation

• At Home: Not only do you have to get all of the waxing supplies, but you also have to heat up the wax (we recommend warm wax over cold strips) and have enough space to apply and remove the wax. You don't want to get wax on anything nor do you want to feel cramped as you try to do your treatment.
• Salon or Spa: Most aestheticians and cosmetologists are licensed to perform waxing, but that doesn’t mean they can do waxing well. If you don’t already have a preferred technician, ask friends and family who they go to for waxes, and make an appointment with the trusted person they referred you to.

Time and Effort

• At Home: Leg waxing is not as easy as it looks, especially since the legs are a considerably large area. If you’re waxing your entire legs, you may want to enlist some help for the back of your upper thighs. If you're new to waxing, estimate at least two hours for both full legs, and do some research on proper technique beforehand.
• Salon or Spa: Someone experienced can wax both your legs in about an hour. A speed waxer may be able to get through in 20-30 minutes. The only effort involved for you is making an appointment and showing up while they do the work. Plus, you'll only need to make follow-ups every few weeks. The sweet spot is about 3-5 weeks. "Waxing removes hair at the root, so the hairs will take longer to grow back then shaving," notes Dr. Murphy-Rose.

Results

• At Home: If it's your first time waxing, it's only natural to end up breaking off hairs above or beneath the surface, and will see the hair grow back a lot sooner than if you removed the entire hair follicle (the reason why waxing gives long-term results). The tendency for missed hairs is more likely, too, but practice will help perfect your technique.
• Salon or Spa: An experienced technician, who is well-practiced, should be skilled enough to remove each and every hair from the follicle, which will have your legs staying smooth for weeks.

Overall, it depends on how much money you’re willing or able to spend, and if you don’t mind doing the work at home. Either way, expect your results to last much longer than the typical shave. "Waxing can be painful or uncomfortable, though the effects of waxing last longer," says Dr. Marisa Garshick. "Because shaving can be associated with ingrown hairs and razor burn or irritation, some people with sensitive skin may opt for waxing. "

How to DIY a Wax

If you're planning to do your own leg waxing for a vacation or another event, it's smart to do a practice session, first. This should take place weeks prior in order to see if you're able to do the waxing on your own and whether you run into any issues. If you skip the practice round and wind up making a mistake before a big day, there's always the chance that calling for a last-minute professional appointment won't be able to fix it. Since hair needs to be at least 1/4" long, you may not qualify for a wax after trying your hand at the method. And that's in a good scenario where you're likely still able to wax to make things right if you have to– if you have any other kind of adverse reaction, you'll have a whole other set of problems before traveling or a special event.

If you do decide to go the DIY route, always make sure your skin is clean and moisturized—both before and after—and use an at-home kit that makes the process easy. "Waxing can irritate the skin," notes Dr. Garshick, adding that it's especially important for those with sensitive skin "to use moisturizer before and after to help create a barrier to minimize friction as well as to soften and smooth the skin."

To prevent ingrowns in this area, Dr. Murphy Rose says to "avoid tight clothing, gently exfoliate the area and use a non-comedogenic moisturizer."

What To Expect at a Professional Leg Waxing

A salon or spa will lead you into a private room, and you'll get undressed before hopping on top of the waxing table. While it may be a professional conducting the waxing, it doesn't mean the process can't be a bit uncomfortable at times, after all, you're stripping down in front of a stranger. But, you'll definitely get more comfortable the more you go and as you familiarize yourself with your waxer and the process. Be sure to communicate with your technician about your comfort levels and let them know whether you want a heads-up before they remove the wax strip. If you're pleased with the results and want to return to the same technician, be sure to book in advance.

But remember that even a salon-quality wax can yield side effects. "Both shaving and waxing increase the risk of ingrown hairs because the hairs are removed so close to the skin that they can become trapped as they grow back," notes Dr. Murphy-Rose.