Laser Hair Removal (2024)

Table of Contents
Preparation Procedure Recovery FAQs

Laser hair removal can be used on patients of just about all skin types, although it is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair. White, blond or gray hair usually cannot be removed with laser hair removal since there is no pigment in the hair for the laser to target.

Although laser hair removal effectively slows hair growth, it does not guarantee permanent hair removal. Several treatments are usually required to remove hair. For best results, you may need at least six treatments spaced a number of weeks apart. Periodic maintenance treatments may also be needed.

Laser hair removal has become so popular that it is often performed in non-medical settings, such as salons and spas. It is important to choose a board certified doctor who is trained in laser hair removal to oversee the treatment.

Preparation

Before treatment, you will have an initial consultation at the dermatologic surgery clinic. During this consultation, the doctor or nurse will discuss your medical history and examine your skin. We will also examine the places you want the hair removed, the texture and color of the hair, and where it is in its growth cycle. A laser hair treatment plan and its related costs will also be discussed, as well as any associated risks.

  • Protect your skin from the sun with a broad-spectrum (protects against both UVA and UVB rays) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day. Do not use a tanning bed. If you have a natural or artificial tan from self-tanning products, your tan must fade completely before your laser hair treatment.
  • Do not pluck, wax, use dissolving creams or have electrolysis for at least one month before treatment. Shaving is okay as it leaves the hair root in place for the laser to target. Shaving may be recommended before treatment.

Procedure

Before treatment begins, the targeted area will be cleaned. A topical anesthetic may then be applied to the area to keep you more comfortable, although many patients do not need it.

You will wear protective eye goggles during the procedure. The laser operator will hold your skin taut while the laser is fired. The laser beam will pass through your skin to the tiny follicles where hair growth originates. The intense heat from the laser beam damages the hair follicles, which stops hair growth. You may feel a stinging sensation or warm pinpricks.

The time of treatment will depend on the size of the area treated.

Recovery

You may experience redness or swelling for the first few hours after laser hair removal. You may also have a stinging sensation for a day or two. The area may also become slightly crusty.

Do not pick or rub the area and be sure to clean gently with soap and water. Avoid sun exposure, both natural and artificial, for at least one week after treatment. It is also important to use broad-spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB rays) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day.

Laser Hair Removal (2024)

FAQs

Can hair be permanently removed by laser? ›

Most people experience hair removal that lasts several months, and it might last for years. But laser hair removal doesn't guarantee permanent hair removal. When hair regrows, it's usually finer and lighter in color. You might need maintenance laser treatments for long-term hair reduction.

Is laser hair removal a good idea? ›

Laser hair removal has become a popular alternative to shaving, waxing, plucking, threading and chemical hair removal in the last decade for good reason. It's more convenient than waxing, safer than chemicals that can burn skin, and less time-consuming than shaving every few days.

Is laser hair removal painful? ›

Though there is some pain, it's often less than people imagine. Laser hair removal targets your hair follicles with a very hot laser, but you won't feel this heat or any burning. Instead, you might feel a sensation similar to having an elastic band snapped against your skin.

Do you shave before laser hair removal? ›

Shave Before Treatment

You should shave within 24 hours of your scheduled laser appointment. Your laser technician cannot treat areas that have hair above the skin. You cannot even receive treatment if there is rough stubble because this may create too much heat for the pigment of your skin.

Should I laser my pubic hair? ›

' Yes, it is safe to laser the pubic area for most patients. It should be noted that this is one of the more sensitive areas when it comes to laser hair removal, but it is quick and effective. Many patients also believe it is overall less painful than waxing.

What happens if I stop laser hair removal after 4 sessions? ›

If treatment is stopped before all of the hair follicles have been destroyed, some may continue to grow. It is important to complete the recommended treatment plan to achieve the best results. Sometimes, the patient sees hairs are thicker and darker after the treatment when they have original light and fair hair.

What are the negatives of laser hair removal? ›

Possible laser hair removal side effects include:
  • Mild swelling around the hair follicles.
  • Pigment changes may occur, especially in those with darker skin – these changes are usually temporary.
  • Slight redness of the skin.
  • Temporary irritation resulting in blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture.

What is the success rate of laser hair removal? ›

You can expect a 10% to 25% reduction in hair after the first treatment. To remove the hair, most patients need 2 to 6 laser treatments. After finishing the treatments, most patients do not see any hair on the treated skin for several months or even years.

What is the risk of laser? ›

Improperly used laser devices are potentially dangerous. Effects can range from mild skin burns to irreversible injury to the skin and eye. The biological damage caused by lasers is produced through thermal, acoustical and photochemical processes.

Will I regret laser hair removal? ›

Regret usually stems from choosing the wrong provider. While laser hair removal itself is rarely regrettable, what can lead to regret is choosing the wrong provider. A cheap, inexperienced clinic may use outdated equipment or incorrect techniques, leading to less effective treatment or even unwanted side-effects.

Can you use at home laser hair removal on pubic hair? ›

Downsides of At-Home Laser Hair Removal Treatment

The risk is especially high if you use a machine that's incompatible with your hair color and skin tone. You may also be prone to redness and irritation if you treat sensitive skin and delicate areas such as pubic hair.

What is the most painful part of the body for laser hair removal? ›

Where is the most painful place to get laser hair removal?
  • Bikini area and pubic region. Often cited as the most sensitive area, the bikini area and pubic region have a high concentration of nerve endings. ...
  • Back. Another area with heightened sensitivity is the back.

What I wish I knew before laser hair removal? ›

5 Things You Need To Know Before Getting Laser Hair Removal
  • Patience Is Key. It will take two or three weeks to see results from your first treatment, and 8-12 weeks to get the full results. ...
  • Shave But Do Not Wax Before your Appointment. ...
  • Treatments Are Quick. ...
  • Avoid The Sun. ...
  • You Might Need Touch-Up Treatments In The Future.
Jul 8, 2021

How short should hair be before laser? ›

My recommendation is to have a close shave a day or two before your treatment. However, it's crucial to avoid shaving too closely immediately prior to the session. Shaving too closely right before your appointment can increase the sensitivity of your skin, making the treatment more uncomfortable.

Is it possible to remove 100% of hair with laser? ›

While laser hair removal cannot guarantee 100% removal of all hair follicles, it offers substantial hair reduction. Most individuals experience a significant reduction in hair growth, with many reporting long-lasting results.

Will hair grow back if I stop laser? ›

While most patients enjoy the benefits of laser treatments for many years, this procedure is technically semi-permanent. This is because some hair follicles can remain unaffected by the laser. That said, patients generally find that most hair follicles no longer grow back.

How many laser treatments does it take to remove hair permanently? ›

You can expect a 10% to 25% reduction in hair after the first treatment. To remove the hair, most patients need 2 to 6 laser treatments. After finishing the treatments, most patients do not see any hair on the treated skin for several months or even years. When the hair regrows, there tends to be less of it.

How much does it cost to remove all body hair permanently? ›

Laser Hair Removal Prices
Number Of Treatments1Package of 8
Ladies Full Body£240 (was £500)£1920 (was £2000)
Ladies Full Body & Face£260 (was £550)£2080 (was £2200)
Men's Full Body£260 (was £550)£2080 was £2200)
Men's Full Body & Face£280 (was £600)£2240 (was £2400)
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