How Does Laser Hair Removal Feel On the Skin?

When it comes to many of today's modern aesthetic treatments and procedures, the days of living by a "pain is beauty" mantra are long gone. Not only have improvements in technology made many cosmetic treatments virtually painless, but those that may cause discomfort are often accompanied by topical anesthetics and built-in numbing agents to make a patient's experience as enjoyable and convenient as possible. Still, one of the first questions patients often ask when considering aesthetic treatments — in this case, laser hair removal — is whether or not the treatment will be painful. At The DeRosa Center in Boston, MA, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jaimie DeRosa and our dedicated team of aesthetic specialists are committed to utilizing the most current techniques and technologies available today to ensure patients endure the least amount of discomfort possible. With laser hair removal specifically, our GentleMax® Pro has advanced cooling technology to minimize discomfort during treatment. Learn more about how laser hair removal may feel here.

Where can laser hair removal be used?

One of the most exciting benefits of laser hair removal is that it can be used almost anywhere on the face or body where patients have unwanted hair growth. Among the most common laser hair removal treatment areas are:

• Face
• Cheeks
• Chin
• Upper lip
• Neck
• Underarms
• Arms
• Legs
• Chest
• Back
• Abdomen
• Buttocks
• Intimate areas

Will laser hair removal hurt?

Most patients find laser hair removal very tolerable, especially when performed with a cutting-edge treatment system like the GentleMax Pro laser, which includes a built-in cooling element to help minimize discomfort. Generally speaking, patients often describe the feeling of laser hair removal as similar to that of a mild sting or a rubber band snapping against the skin, though the feeling almost immediately subsides after treatment. Following laser hair removal, patients can expect some mild redness, irritation, and other symptoms that may be likened to the symptoms of a sunburn. Our team will discuss laser hair removal aftercare instructions with you — like the use of a topical soothing agent or cold compress and avoidance of sun exposure — that can help these laser hair removal side effects resolve quickly.

Will my skin be numbed for laser hair removal?

In most cases, patients do not require numbing cream for laser hair removal. However, our caring team understands that everyone's needs are unique. For patients who are having laser hair removal performed on more sensitive areas, or for those patients who may have elevated anxiety about pain with laser hair removal, a topical anesthetic may be used to numb the skin prior to treatment. If you have concerns about discomfort during laser hair removal, don't hesitate to let our providers know so that we can discuss your available options and ensure your experience is a positive one.

Say goodbye to shaving with long-lasting laser hair removal in Boston, MA

Whether you are embarrassed about unwanted body and facial hair growth, you experience recurrent ingrown hairs and razor burn, or you're simply tired of constantly shaving and waxing, laser hair removal can be a life-changing treatment that saves you countless hours, stress, and more. Take the first step toward smoother, silkier skin and improved self-esteem today by calling The DeRosa Center, under the direction of double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Jaimie DeRosa, to schedule your Boston, MA laser hair removal treatment or consultation with one of our experienced providers.