What Does Laser Hair Removal Feel Like?

Laser hair removal is a relatively quick process that’s well-tolerated by most patients.

In fact, technological advancements have significantly decreased treatment time (five-to-60 minutes) and increased comfort, making the procedure an excellent alternative to waxing, plucking, and shaving.

So, what does laser hair removal feel like?

Find out what you may experience during treatment and how this sensation can vary from one body part to another.

Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

Most women and men undergo laser hair removal after struggling with unwanted hair and undesirable side effects from other hair removal options.

A majority of these individuals describe the treatment as feeling similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. This sensation is also more noticeable in some areas more than others.

What Does Laser Hair Removal Feel Like?

Several factors, including hair coarseness and density as well as skin thickness, contribute to how much or how little patients feel during laser hair removal.

Therefore, it’s necessary to break the treatment down by body part in order to answer the question, “What does laser hair removal feel like?”

Face

Because skin tends to be thinner on the face, this area can cause more discomfort than others.

Patients find the upper lip especially sensitive, with a quick, but sharp snapping sensation.

On the other hand, the chin and sideburns are more comfortable – thanks to increased thickness.

Underarms

The underarms are one of the most popular spots for laser hair removal, but can feel quite prickly.

While treatment in this area can resemble a needling effect, a cool tip, Aloe Vera gel, and numbing cream significantly improve patient comfort.

Bikini

A majority of patients seeking laser hair removal have endured a bikini wax.

In comparison, lasering this part of the body is far easier, with more permanent results.

It’s also an excellent way to say goodbye to bothersome ingrowns, that often persist after waxing.

Arms and Legs

Although the arms and legs often require more time than the face, underarms, or bikini, they offer a fairly painless treatment. Since these areas are protected with thicker skin, patients only feel an occasional snapping sensation and some mild discomfort.

The good news is that, as laser hair removal takes effect, hair becomes sparser and thinner. As a result, associated pain declines and is less noticeable with each session.

If you are considering laser hair removal, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with one of our highly skilled and talented providers. 

Dr. Eliot Battle

CEO & Founder at Cultura Dermatology & Plastic Surgery

Dr. Eliot Battle, CEO of Cultura Dermatology, is a global leader in cosmetic dermatology and laser innovation. His Harvard research pioneered “color-blind” lasers, making treatments safe for all skin tones. A sought-after expert featured in TIME, Oprah, and The New York Times, he continues to advance inclusive, cutting-edge dermatological care.