Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt? Your Most Common Laser Hair Removal Questions, Answered

When it comes to beauty treatments, I like to think of myself as a human guinea pig—I’m pretty much willing to try anything once.

Over the years, I’ve dabbled with all different forms of hair removal methods—from waxing to threading, shaving to Nair-ing, and everything in between. (Anyone else remember that Nair smell?! It is fully burned into my memory. Pun intended.)

If you follow me on Instagram, you might remember that I also recently tested out an at-home IPL device. I used it on my legs, and based on my experience, I definitely think it has been effective!

But—because I’m me—I couldn’t just stop there. In an effort to fully explore the world of hairlessness (and be able to compare different methods) I decided I also had to give laser hair removal a whirl.

I was partially motivated by curiosity—and also by the fact that I wanted to laser my bikini line but was too scared to do it myself.

I chose to go with Milan Laser, which is a company that a friend of mine had used and enthusiastically recommended. (Thank you Caralyn!) I’ll be doing a separate review post once my series of treatments have been fully completed, so stay tuned for that.

In the meantime, I wanted to share some of the questions I asked Milan Laser about the laser hair removal process, since I know they’re probably the same questions a lot of other people might have.

Below, Milan Laser’s Alissa Salomon breaks down everything you’d ever want to know, including: Does laser hair removal hurt? How much does laser hair removal cost? Is laser hair removal permanent? Read on for her responses!

What are some common side effects of laser hair removal? 

Unlike waxing treatments, laser hair removal has no downtime and is a low-risk procedure. Side effects are rare, but some of the most common ones are redness and minor swelling, although they’ll go away within a few hours or a few days.

You might experience some itching in the treatment area, but aloe vera can help alleviate that. Be sure to exfoliate the treatment area to help with shedding from the follicles. 

[Editor’s Note: after my first treatment, my bikini area was a little red and irritated, but it went away within a day.]

How do you prepare for laser hair removal?

Make sure to leave the treatment area free of lotion, makeup, and deodorant.

Shave the area you’re treating, either the day before or the day of your appointment. It’s unsafe to treat tanned skin, so stay out of the sun and avoid sunless tanner so your skin is at its natural tone. 

How long does laser hair removal last? Is laser hair removal permanent? 

Results from laser hair removal are permanent when done properly!

Multiple treatments are necessary to get the results you want because your hair is at different growth stages. The number of treatments needed can also depend on your hair, the treatment areas, and the frequency of treatments. 

The average Milan Laser client is 95%+ hair-free in seven to 10 treatments.

How much does laser hair removal cost?

Laser hair removal is more cost-effective than people think. About $3,800 is spent over a lifetime on shaving essentials. For waxing appointments at salons, you’re looking at $24,000 over a lifetime.

The money spent on waxing appointments, replacing razors, or buying shaving cream becomes cyclical and costs more in the end. Laser hair removal is an investment rather than an expense. 

[Editor’s note: the cost really depends on your desired treatment area. You can use the code LindsaySilb60 to get 60% off any area* at any of Milan’s 220+ locations. The nice thing about Milan is that all of their packages (excluding full body) include unlimited treatments. This was probably the thing that appealed to me most about them. No matter how many sessions (or touch ups) you need, the price is the same.]

*excluding full-body

Is laser hair removal safe?

Yes! When performed correctly, laser hair removal treatments are safe and effective for all skin tones. Choosing a provider or company with highly trained, experienced staff will make the treatments safer as well!

They’ll know how to work with your needs and answer all of your questions.

Does laser hair removal hurt? 

Not compared to waxing! Many clients say that laser hair removal feels like a quick rubber band snap against the skin but only for half a second.

Milan utilizes one of the most comfortable lasers on the market—the Candela GentleMaxPro, which has a cooling cryogen mist that comes out immediately after each laser pulse to cut down on any pain.

[Editor’s Note: After my first treatment, I can personally vouch for this. The professional who treated me described the feeling as “a little spicy” and I think that’s the perfect word to use. Some areas were more sensitive than others, but in general it wasn’t too bad. Also, knowing that it would literally take less than 15 minutes made the “spiciness” much more manageable.]

What makes Milan Laser different? 

Laser hair removal is Milan’s speciality—it’s literally all they do. And, since medical professionals are the ones performing the treatments, you’re in the best hands.

Another differentiating factor is that Milan guarantees your results for life. The Unlimited Package provides all the treatments necessary until you reach your hair-free goals for one price—with no touch-up fees down the road.

Curious about learning more? Head to Milan’s website to schedule a consult. Friendly reminder: you can use LindsaySilb60 to get 60% off of your package at any Milan Laser location.

The post was created in partnership with Milan Laser. As with all content on my site, all opinions are my own!