Current:Home > MyDoes laser hair removal hurt? Not when done properly. Here's what you need to know. -Wealth Nexus Pro
Does laser hair removal hurt? Not when done properly. Here's what you need to know.
View
Date:2025-04-16 16:38:14
It’s jeans and sweater weather right now, but spring and summer are just around the corner – which means it’s back to exposed legs and underarms and shaving unwanted hair, for many people.
If that thought filled you with dread, you may have, at one point, considered an alternative – laser hair removal. Laser hair removal, when done by a professional, can be a safe, effective and permanent solution for getting rid of unwanted hair. You may be hesitant because of cost, potential side effects or fear of a painful procedure. We aim to answer all of the questions you may have about laser hair removal so you can make an informed decision.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
It’s not pleasant, but most dermatologists say it’s tolerable, especially if a topical anesthetic is given beforehand. A common description of how it feels is a rubber band being snapped against the skin.
However, this is when it is done properly. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends that laser hair removal should be performed by a medical doctor who is trained and skilled in using lasers. When the lasers are not operated properly, blisters, burns and infections may occur – and these can be painful.
Unwanted facial hair?Here's what you need to know.
Is laser hair removal more painful than waxing?
No. Most people would say that waxing and tweezing are more painful. You could be at risk for pain in more sensitive areas, or if you have sensitive skin in general. A topical anesthetic can help.
What are the negatives of laser hair removal?
In addition to some of the side effects listed above, skin pigmentation changes could also occur. The Mayo Clinic explains that laser hair removal might darken or lighten the targeted area and that the changes could be temporary or permanent. They explain that those who don't avoid sun exposure before or after treatment and those who have darker skin are at a greater risk for this complication.
Laser hair removal also doesn’t work very well for people with lighter hair. In an interview with The American Academy of Dermatology Association, Dr. Carolyn I. Jacob, MD, FAAD, an associate clinical instructor of dermatology at Northwestern’s Feinberg School of Medicine, explains that lasers that targeting blond, red, gray or white hair have not been developed yet.
It is also expensive. It depends on how vast of an area you want to have done, but the cost typically falls between a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Multiple sessions may be needed for long-lasting results.
Overall, the procedure is very safe when performed by a dermatologist, and the risk of pain or other complications is quite low. If you decide to try laser hair removal, the switch from jeans and sweats to shorts and swimsuits may be a breeze!
Is stress making my hair turn gray?A study shines new light on a 'gray' area.
veryGood! (2)
Related
- Senate begins final push to expand Social Security benefits for millions of people
- An Alaska veteran is finally getting his benefits — 78 years after the 103-year-old was discharged
- Padres catcher Kyle Higashioka receives replica medal for grandfather’s World War II service
- Blake Lively Shares Proof Ryan Reynolds Is Most Romantic Person on the Planet
- Arkansas State Police probe death of woman found after officer
- Darren Walker’s Ford Foundation legacy reached far beyond its walls
- The best electric SUVs of 2024: Top picks to go EV
- China says longtime rival Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah sign pact to end rift, propose unity government
- What do we know about the mysterious drones reported flying over New Jersey?
- Is it common to get a job promotion without a raise? Ask HR
Ranking
- Scoot flight from Singapore to Wuhan turns back after 'technical issue' detected
- Donald Trump and Bryson DeChambeau aim to break 50 on YouTube: Five takeaways
- See “F--king Basket Case” Kim Zolciak Break Down Over Kroy Biermann Divorce in Surreal Life Tease
- Chinese swimmers saga and other big doping questions entering 2024 Paris Olympics
- How to watch new prequel series 'Dexter: Original Sin': Premiere date, cast, streaming
- Fires threaten towns, close interstate in Pacific Northwest as heat wave continues
- Tarek El Moussa Slams Rumor He Shared a Message About Ex Christina Hall’s Divorce
- Swiss manufacturer Liebherr to bring jobs to north Mississippi
Recommendation
Can Bill Belichick turn North Carolina into a winner? At 72, he's chasing one last high
Kamala IS brat: These are some of the celebrities throwing their support behind Kamala Harris' campaign for president
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigns after Trump shooting security lapses
Ethiopia mudslides death toll nears 230 as desperate search continues in southern Gofa region
IRS recovers $4.7 billion in back taxes and braces for cuts with Trump and GOP in power
Hugh Jackman Weighs in on a Greatest Showman Sequel
Who plays Lady Deadpool? Fan theories include Blake Lively and (of course) Taylor Swift
Steve Bannon’s trial in border wall fundraising case set for December, after his ongoing prison term