If you are tired of shaving or just looking to remove bothersome hair, chances are you have considered getting laser hair removal. When it comes to this treatment, patients tend to have a lot of questions such as how much does laser hair removal cost and how many treatments will they need. However, the most common questions our certified laser technicians get asked are what does treatment feel like and will it be uncomfortable. Since pain is subjective, it can be hard to give a definitive answer. Luckily, at Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center, we have decades of experience treating patients and have some insight about what to expect.
As the name suggests, laser hair removal works to remove unwanted facial and body hair by using a special laser to treat hair follicles. Since the light from the laser is attracted to dark pigments, the energy pulls directly into the hair without disturbing the surrounding skin. Because of this, laser hair removal works best for people who have dark hair.
Even though the lasers use heat, patients may not feel any hot sensations. Laser hair removal treatment has been described as feeling like your skin is being snapped with a rubber band. To help minimize pain, your provider may apply a numbing cream to the area before treatment. After treatment, you may experience temporary, mild discomfort such as redness and slight irritation. During this time, your skin will be sensitive, so you should avoid UV rays and make sure to wear sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher.
The level of discomfort you may experience during treatment depends on what location of the body you choose to get treated. The more sensitive the skin is, the more uncomfortable the treatment session is likely to be. Areas with thick skin such as the back, arms and legs have the lowest levels of discomfort for most people. On the other hand, areas with sensitive skin such as the underarms and the bikini line tend to be more uncomfortable.
Everyone has a different level of pain tolerance and we want to know if you’re worried about any pain or discomfort. Our expert technicians want you to feel as comfortable as possible during your laser hair removal treatment. If you’re interested in learning more about laser hair removal or have any questions about the treatment, contact Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center in Duluth today. Additionally, give our med spa a follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more about our skincare services and cosmetic treatments.
FAQs
To perform the procedure, the skin is held taut and the skin is treated with the laser. Many patients say that the laser pulses feel like warm pinpricks or a rubber band being snapped against the skin. A laser removes hair by vaporizing it. This causes small plumes of smoke that have a sulfur-like smell.
Is laser more painful than waxing? ›
Low pain level: Laser treatment hurts much less than waxing. Plus, technicians usually apply numbing and cooling cream to reduce discomfort in the treatment area. High cost: As the most expensive option, laser hair removal should be considered an investment.
How painful is hair laser removal? ›
Is laser hair removal painful? Temporary discomfort is possible, with some redness and swelling after the procedure. People compare laser hair removal to a warm pinprick and say it's less painful than other hair removal methods like waxing or threading.
How does laser hair removal feel compared to tattoo pain? ›
The laser can cause slightly more discomfort on areas with thinner skin, such as the upper lip and temples. To put it into perspective, in terms of pain laser hair removal is a lot less painful than waxing and less painful than tattooing or the dentists, so there is really nothing to worry about.
What does laser hair removal feel like down there? ›
The closest description of how laser hair removal feels is feeling like you're being snapped by a rubber band. If you're anxious about the pain, we can prescribe a topical anesthetic that you can apply 30-minutes prior to your appointment to ease the pain and discomfort.
Will I regret laser hair removal? ›
But, as with any treatment that ends with more or less permanent results, not everyone is pleased with their decision. While some feel freedom after banishing all the hair on their bodies for good, others express deep regret — especially given how the conversation around body hair has shifted in recent years.
What part of laser hurts the most? ›
Typically, areas with thinner skin such as the upper lip, bikini line, and underarms tend to be more sensitive during laser hair removal.
Is laser hair removal awkward? ›
If you are new to laser hair removal it's normal to be embarrassed. The majority of women feel the exact same way starting off but it will get easier over time.
Are there risks to laser hair removal? ›
Rarely, laser hair removal can cause blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture. Other rare side effects include graying of treated hair or excessive hair growth around treated areas, particularly on darker 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.
Legs Laser Hair Removal
Leg Laser Hair Removal is often considered the most minor for discomfort compared to other treatment areas. The shins, calves and upper thighs have much thicker skin than many of the above treatment areas, making treatment relatively painless.
What hurts more, tattoo or laser removal? ›
Does Tattoo Removal Hurt More Than Getting Tattooed? People have different levels of pain tolerance—and anxiety about pain—but laser tattoo removal feels less painful than getting tattooed. Many people compare the pain of tattoo removal to the discomfort caused by a sunburn.
Which is more painful, electrolysis or a tattoo? ›
Electrolysis is widely considered to be the most painful hair removal method. Many clients say electrolysis feels similar to getting a tattoo. Compared to a tattoo, the pain from electrolysis is often more intense and short-lived – until the slower-paced, sharper discomfort that comes along with getting inked.
Does pubic hair fall out after laser? ›
Immediately after the procedure the treated area might appear red and swollen. This is a normal response and usually subsides within a few hours. 7-14 days after the procedure the hairs will begin to fall out. Now, this doesn't mean the hair won't ever return.
Does laser hair removal hurt on private parts? ›
Does laser hair removal hurt on the bikini line? Like the underarms, laser hair removal tends to be more painful along the bikini line. It's said to feel similar to waxing, but the difference is that laser removal takes longer. However, you might find the discomfort worth the long-term results.
Should I laser all 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.
Does laser hair removal hurt more than Brazilian? ›
Brazilian waxing involves a sudden removal of hair, which many describe as a sharp, intense pain, albeit briefly. On the other hand, laser hair removal can feel like a series of hot snaps on the skin, a sensation considered more tolerable by many.
Does laser hurt more if you don't shave? ›
When hair is left long, it can burn on the surface of the skin. Which can create a more painful experience. The burnt hairs can also lead to a less pleasant smell. And potential for a slight singeing of surrounding skin, not to mention the increased risk of skin irritation.
Is waxing better than laser for Brazilian? ›
While waxing offers a quick fix for unwanted hair, it is temporary and painful. Further, the maintenance it requires highlights the advantages of Laser Hair Removal for a longer-lasting and less painful solution.
Does IPL or waxing hurt more? ›
IPL targets only the hair follicle, avoiding any damage to the skin itself, and is considered the most skin-friendly option of hair reduction. Most people find IPL less painful than laser treatments and without a doubt, less painful than waxing!
If you are tired of shaving or just looking to remove bothersome hair, chances are you have considered getting laser hair removal. When it comes to this treatment, patients tend to have a lot of questions such as how much does laser hair removal cost and how many treatments will they need. However, the most common questions our certified laser technicians get asked are what does treatment feel like and will it be uncomfortable. Since pain is subjective, it can be hard to give a definitive answer. Luckily, at Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center, we have decades of experience treating patients and have some insight about what to expect.