Why Waxing Doesn't Remove All Hairs And What To Do About It
- Lana Skyn

- Sep 17
- 4 min read
Waxing has been a well-liked hair removal method for many years. It's favored by numerous people because of the smooth result it leaves. However, there is a problem: waxing doesn't remove all hairs. Fine, subtle, or light-colored hairs have a tendency to remain behind. That’s why many people turn to laser hair removal.
In this blog, you'll discover why waxing does not remove all hairs, how to reduce them, and what to do if waxing fails. We'll also cover more innovative alternatives and when a laser is the better choice.

How Waxing Works: The Basics
When waxing misses hairs, it's frustrating and completely normal. In Amsterdam, you're not alone, and there's clarity ahead.
Waxing removes unwanted hair growth in women from the root during the active growth phase. Only hairs in this stage come out easily. Hairs in the telogen or catagen phase may not come out. Hair length is very important. The best length is about 0.5 to 1 cm. If the hair is too short, the wax cannot grip it. If the hair is too long, it may break instead of coming out.
The type of wax also matters. Hard wax works well on coarse hairs and is gentle on the skin. Soft wax is better for fine or dense hairs. Technique and temperature are essential too. If the wax is not hot enough or is removed too quickly, hairs may break or remain.
Common Reasons Waxing Doesn't Remove All Hairs
Some hairs always seem to stay behind after waxing. It can be hard to deal with. Here are the main reasons this happens.
Growth cycles mismatch
Not all hairs grow at the same speed. Some are in the active growth phase, and others are resting. Only hairs in the active phase come out cleanly. Hairs in resting phases may stay behind.
Hair too short or too long
Hairs need the correct length for wax to grip. Too short, and the wax cannot catch them. If it's too long, the hair may snap instead of coming out. Proper trimming before waxing helps avoid this.
Broken hairs, not root extraction
Waxing sometimes breaks hairs instead of pulling them from the root. This often happens if the wax is removed too quickly or with poor technique. Broken hairs may grow back faster. Correct technique reduces this issue.
Wax temperature or wrong type
Wax must be the right temperature. It's too cold, and it doesn't stick well. Using the wrong type of wax can also cause hair to remain. Choosing the right wax improves results.
Hair thickness and skin type
Fine hairs are harder for wax to pull out. Sensitive skin can make waxing more difficult. Thick or coarse hairs usually come out more easily. Knowing your hair and skin type helps prevent missed hairs.
Laser Hair Removal: The Modern Alternative

Waxing has limits, but technology offers something better. Laser hair removal is fast, precise, and long-lasting, giving you smooth skin with less effort.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
It uses strong light focused on hair follicles. The energy of the laser is attracted to the pigment within the hair. This kills the follicle, which prevents or slows growth in the future.
As opposed to waxing, the laser is capable of targeting even very fine or concealed hairs. It is used to target large and small surface areas, including the face, underarms, arms, legs, and bikini line. The majority of the treatments take a few minutes up to an hour, depending on the surface area size.
Lasers are specific. Specialists can target individual follicles without damaging the skin around them. That is why it is safe for sensitive skin.
What the Laser Can Do That Waxing Cannot
It also eliminates those hairs that get left behind by waxing. Light, fine, or stubborn hairs are ideal for laser treatment. Lasers gradually slow down hair growth. Some people achieve permanent reduction in hair after a few sessions.
Laser also offers longer times between sessions. You won't need to constantly replay the process every few weeks, unlike waxing. It reduces repeat salon visits.
Treatment is cleaner and more accurate than waxing. There is less likelihood of ingrown hairs or skin irritation. Sensitive, painful regions that are sensitive to wax are easily treated.
Comparing Waxing and Laser Hair Removal

Waxing has been the go-to for years, but it comes with clear limits. Laser hair removal takes the process further with precision, comfort, and lasting results.
Feature | Waxing | Laser Hair Removal |
Hair Removal Precision | Moderate, often misses fine hairs | High, removes fine and stubborn hairs effectively |
Pain Level | Moderate to high | Low to moderate with cooling technology |
Duration of Results | 2–6 weeks | Months to years with multiple sessions |
Skin Safety | Risk of irritation and ingrown hairs | Minimal risk with professional treatment |
Cost Over Time | Low per session but adds up with repetition | Higher upfront but cost-effective long-term |
Laser clearly solves the biggest problem: waxing does not remove all hairs. Ready to make the switch? Book your laser hair removal consultation today and enjoy the results that waxing can’t deliver.
In Summary
Waxing does not remove all hairs because of hair cycles, length, wax type, and technique. This is normal and not your fault. Prep your skin, exfoliate, and time your sessions for better results.
If you are in Amsterdam and want to avoid missing hairs altogether, LanaSkyn's laser hair removal is the best option. It gives fast, gentle, and lasting results. Contact for a free laser consult and enjoy smooth, hair-free skin for good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some hairs stay after waxing?
Some hairs stay because they are not long enough or not in the right growth phase. They will be removed in the next waxing session when they reach the active phase.
Is stubble right after waxing normal?
Yes, stubble is usual and shows that the hairs are still in resistant growth phases. It does not mean the waxing failed.
Should I shave my missed hairs?
You can shave missed hairs if needed, but it is better to tweeze them or wait until the next session. This avoids irritation and broken hairs.
How long until the next waxing session?
Scheduling the next session in 4 to 6 weeks is ideal. This timing targets hairs in the active growth phase for more effective removal.
Does waxing remove all hairs permanently?
No, waxing does not remove hair permanently. It slows down regrowth, but new hairs continue to grow in cycles.



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