The High-Maintenance Trick I'm Using Now to Keep It Low Maintenance This Summer

      Every July since I was 12, I have been on my way to some skin-revealing summer event, only to discover too late that I had missed a stray strip of stubble. Regardless of how much preparation I undertook, I would spend the entire evening anxious that someone might notice, trying to conceal my shins beneath the table. After more than ten years of attempting (and failing) to dodge this uncomfortable social scenario, I have experimented with nearly every hair removal method available. Waxing resulted in painful ingrown hairs, at-home hair removal creams have a scent reminiscent of perm solution (and once caused me a minor chemical burn), and shaving? That time-consuming process assured that I would be stubbly again after just my second margarita.

      Therefore, in consideration of my future self, I finally decided to pursue laser hair removal at LaserAway this winter. Yes, it’s an investment. Yes, it requires time. And no, it isn't entirely pain-free. However, here’s the catch: a few months of commitment now means I can enjoy a hassle-free, shave-free summer later. If you’ve ever questioned whether laser hair removal is worthwhile, here’s everything you should know—because this high-maintenance choice has significantly simplified my deliberately low-maintenance life.

      Why laser hair removal is the ultimate high-maintenance beauty hack

      Admittedly, laser hair removal isn't the simplest beauty decision. It requires several sessions (typically 6-8, spaced a few weeks apart), a financial commitment upfront, and involves some discomfort. But once you’ve completed it, you’re finished.

      It's quicker and less painful than expected. My initial session lasted less than 30 minutes—which is about the same time I typically spend pondering whether I really need to shave before heading out. Even in more sensitive areas, the discomfort was brief. A few seconds of mild stinging now for a shave-free summer? Totally worth it.

      Results appear quickly. For full transparency: You won’t leave your first session completely hair-free. Laser hair removal is a process, and the real benefits manifest over time. However, by the second or third session, I noticed significantly less regrowth, and by the fourth session, I was shaving perhaps once a week instead of every other day. If you’re someone who seeks instant results, just remember that the reward is worth the wait. If you aim to be smooth by summer, now is the moment to start.

      Preparation and aftercare are remarkably straightforward. There’s no complicated process or downtime required. Just shave the night before, avoid lotions and deodorants on the day of your appointment, and apply a bit of aloe post-treatment. No awkward grow-out phase like with waxing, no accidental razor burn—only smooth skin all season long.

      Is LaserAway good? My honest review

      I had been toying with the idea of laser hair removal for years, but the thought of both the physical and financial commitment involved in multiple sessions kept pushing me to delay. However, after a painful incident with an expired bottle of hair removal cream, I finally had enough and scheduled my first appointment at LaserAway.

      I went all in with a platinum package to receive treatment on my underarms, lower legs, and Brazilian area across eight sessions. During my first appointment, my technician Kandice (who I might add to my emergency contacts) ensured my comfort, guided me through the entire process, and completed the session in 27 minutes (yes, I timed it). Even the more sensitive spots were finished before I had time to feel anxious. But just in case you’re as nervous as I was, here are some FAQs answered:

      Does laser hair removal hurt? It’s significantly less painful than waxing. For me, the most sensitive areas felt like brief, small zaps, but it was over in seconds.

      Does laser hair removal work for all skin tones and hair types? Thanks to advanced laser technology, LaserAway is capable of treating a wide variety of skin tones and hair colors.

      Is laser hair removal permanent? It greatly decreases hair growth, but occasional touch-ups may be necessary as time passes. Nonetheless, it is far superior to the continual shave-wax-repeat cycle.

      For a more detailed review of LaserAway’s process, read more here.

      So, is laser hair removal worth it?

      Ultimately, laser hair removal is an investment—not just financially, but also in terms of the time required to complete the sessions. However, if you are someone who loathes the endless routine of shaving, waxing, or dealing with irritation, it might be one of the best beauty enhancements you can choose.

      In addition to the convenience, there’s a liberating feeling in knowing that no matter where life (or spontaneous plans) leads me, I don’t need to worry about whether I remembered to shave. Traveling? Uncomplicated. Beach days? No need for an emergency razor. Getting dressed in the morning? No second-guessing my outfit selections based on body