An option for people who want a long-lasting solution for facial hair, body hair, and ingrown hair.
People with dark hair and dark skin are better candidates for laser hair removal.
Because hair grows in cycles, optimal results may require several treatment sessions.
Many laser systems have built-in cooling mechanisms or use cooling gels to minimize discomfort.
Lasers target multiple hair follicles simultaneously, allowing for quicker treatment of large areas like the legs or back.
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.
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.
$250-$1,500 per session: Price varies widely by region and number of sessions. This service is frequently sold in packages.
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.
Alexandrite Lasers
Known for their effectiveness on lighter skin. One of the fastest options for hair removal.
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Diode Lasers
This technology provides effective results with minimal discomfort.
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Nd:YAG Lasers
Effective for darker skin tones and able to target coarse hair.
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Ruby Lasers
Suited for people with fair skin tones seeking treatment over small areas.
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