Is laser hair removal really worth it?
Shaving every day can be a pain, literally and figuratively. It’s time consuming, and often leaves a bumpy, itchy, and red patch of skin behind. Maybe you’ve tried waxing, which can be successful but painful and inconvenient (letting your hair grow out in between sessions is no fun). If you’re at the point where laser hair removal seems like a viable option, it’s important to understand the risks and benefits. We are here to answer some common questions.
How laser hair removal works
Does laser hair removal really work? It depends on what you’re looking to achieve. It’s important to note up front that contrary to popular belief, laser hair removal is not permanent. Laser hair removal treatments keep hair growth at bay longer than shaving and waxing, however over time, the hair will eventually grow back. The good news is, the hair that grows back won’t be as thick or dark as it was previously; it comes in somewhat lighter and thinner.About the laser hair removal procedure
You should always use a verified laser hair removal clinic with professionals that specialize in the procedure. To begin, the technician will clean the area and apply a numbing agent. Then, the skin is held secure and the laser treatment begins. There may be some smoke and sulfur odor. Some patients have described it as feeling like a rubber band is being smacked on their skin. There are different types of equipment that can be used, some are less painful than others.How much does laser hair cost?
Laser hair removal cost can range from $100-$1000 per session. The cost of laser underarm hair removal ranges from $150-$250 per session. So, at the high end, if you get six treatments you’ll run up a $2,250 tab; much more expensive than shaving or waxing.Pros of laser hair removal
- Laser hair removal is a very precise hair removal method
- Each session is short - especially for laser hair removal in the underarms
- Patients see results right away
- It significantly reduces hair growth
- Treatments can be utilized on any part of the body, including the armpits
- It’s less painful than waxing (ouch!)
Cons of laser hair removal
- It gets expensive when considering follow-up appointments
- It isn’t a permanent solution to hair removal
- Can cause redness and irritation
- Infection can occur
- Can result in a change in skin color
- Treatments can leave burns if administered by an untrained technician