Your Complete Guide to Laser Hair Removal

An option for people who want a long-lasting solution for facial hair, body hair, and ingrown hair.

Help Me Find a Provider
Teach Me More
Play Video

Video: Types of Laser Hair Removal

Our educational videos are directed by Aesthetics HQ founder and certified physician assistant Melissa Singleton – an experienced injector and top Galderma national trainer.
Watch now

Find a Provider

Ready to take the next step? Browse our directory to find a provider and book a consultation.
Take Me to the Directory

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Hair Color
People with dark hair and dark skin are better candidates for laser hair removal.
Commitment
Because hair grows in cycles, optimal results may require several treatment sessions.
Comfort Features
Many laser systems have built-in cooling mechanisms or use cooling gels to minimize discomfort

Visit Our Provider Directory
to Book an Appointment

Take Me to the Directory

Laser Hair Removal: What You Should Know

Lasers are a popular option for people who want long-lasting facial and body hair removal.

Medically reviewed by
Cayla Nessler | Certified Physician Assistant

During laser hair removal, the device emits bright flashes of light absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. This process destroys hair follicles in the active growing phase and prevents future growth. The surrounding skin is unharmed.

Laser hair removal typically requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. That’s because hair grows in cycles, and the laser can only target actively growing hairs during the treatment.

People with dark hair and light skin are great candidates for laser hair removal because coarser, darker hair tends to respond better to laser treatment. However, advancements have made treating a more comprehensive range of skin tones possible.

Pros

  • Long-lasting results: With multiple sessions, laser hair removal can provide long-lasting hair reduction and, in some cases, permanent hair loss.
  • Precision: Laser technology allows for precise targeting, ensuring that only the hair follicles are affected while the surrounding skin remains undamaged.
  • Speed: Laser pulses can target multiple hair follicles simultaneously, allowing for quicker treatment of larger areas like the legs or back.

Cons

  • Multiple sessions: Optimal results may require several treatment sessions spaced weeks apart. This can be time-consuming and may require commitment.
  • Temporary discomfort: Some individuals experience mild discomfort during the procedure, which can vary depending on personal pain tolerance and the sensitivity of the treated area.
  • Cost: Laser hair removal can be expensive, especially when multiple sessions are required.

What to Expect

  • Preparation: The treatment area will be cleaned, and you should pre-shave before the procedure. Some clinics may ask you to avoid sun exposure or specific hair removal methods before the session.
  • Eye protection: Both the patient and the technician will wear protective eyewear to shield their eyes from the laser light.
  • Laser application: The technician will use a handheld device to deliver short pulses of laser light to the treatment areas. You may feel a slight sensation of heat or a rubber band snapping against your skin.
  • Cooling: Many laser systems have built-in cooling mechanisms or use cooling gels to minimize discomfort and protect the surrounding skin.
  • Post-treatment care: After the procedure, you may experience some redness or mild swelling, which typically subsides within a few hours. The technician may recommend soothing creams or ice packs to alleviate discomfort.

Results

Results from laser hair removal vary depending on factors such as hair type, color, and treatment area. Generally, you can expect to see a gradual reduction in hair growth over multiple sessions.

Initial results may be visible after the first few treatments, but it usually takes several sessions to achieve significant and long-lasting results. Typically, providers like to space treatments four to six weeks apart to target hair follicles in different growth cycles.

Individual results may vary, and some people may require maintenance sessions to sustain the desired level of hair reduction. It’s best to consult with a qualified professional to determine the expected timeline and results based on your specific needs.

Cost

$250-$1,500 per session: Price varies widely by region and number of sessions. This service is frequently sold in packages.

Safety Profile

Suitable laser options for individuals with skin types I-III include ruby lasers, intense pulsed Light (IPL), alexandrite lasers, and newer diode lasers. However, individuals with darker skin types should consider the Nd: YAG laser as a more effective and safer alternative.

Some newer alexandrite lasers and diode lasers may also be suitable for darker skin types, with minimal side effects. In contrast, using a ruby laser or IPL on darker skin types may result in depigmentation and discomfort during treatment.

Additionally, the number of treatment sessions required varies for different skin types. Up to 10 sessions are recommended for skin types IV, V, and VI, while lighter skin types may only require four to six sessions.

Laser Types

Alexandrite Lasers
Known for their effectiveness on lighter skin. One of the fastest options for hair removal.
Learn more

Diode Lasers
This technology provides effective results with minimal discomfort.
Learn more

 

Nd:YAG Lasers
Effective for darker skin tones and able to target coarse hair.
Learn more

Ruby Lasers
Suited for people with fair skin tones seeking treatment over small areas.
Learn more

Visit Our Provider Directory
to Book an Appointment

Take Me to the Directory
List Your Practice