5. Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

The level of pain from laser hair removal technique depends on the person's skin and hair type as well as the pain threshold. Typically, the treatment tends to hurt less for people with lighter skin tones and finer hair. Most people however, tolerate it very well.

Because some areas of the body are more sensitive, you may want to use a topical anesthetic to numb the skin before treatments.

During the laser hair removal treatment, you may feel a slight snapping sensation like a rubber band with an awareness of heat (some people have described the sensation as discomfort rather than pain) but the laser does not produce an open wound or cause any bleeding.

Applying this anesthetic prior to treatment will lessen any discomfort. Tylenol may also be taken a few hours prior to treatment, though most people feel it is unnecessary.

Depending on the type of laser being used, a cool laser tip, gel, or spray is always used to increase comfort. The laser's cooling system provides an additional anesthetic effect.

Many people find that shaving the treatment area a day or two before the session minimizes discomfort. Those who have had sugaring, waxing, or electrolysis in the past usually report less or no discomfort during treatment.

The laser hair removal procedure is generally well tolerated with a mild sensation of heat tingling or stinging.

Go to FAQ 6 ("How long is the treatment?)