Many people feel exhausted by the constant hassle of shaving and waxing. If you’ve been searching for long-term results, laser hair removal is your go-to solution. But before choosing this treatment, it’s important to understand how it works and what to expect.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from how the procedure works to its benefits, treatment areas, recovery, and side effects. You’ll also learn the difference between at-home and professional treatments, so you can decide what’s best for your needs.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
It is a process that uses a concentrated beam of light (a laser) to reduce unwanted hair. It targets the melanin in your hair follicles and converts the light into heat. This damages the follicle and delays future hair growth.
Different types of lasers are used depending on skin tone, hair type, and treatment area:
- Alexandrite: Most common for lighter skin tones; features a shorter wavelength for effective hair reduction.
- Diode: Suitable for medium to darker skin tones; operates at around 800 nm for long-lasting results.
- Nd:YAG: Has the longest wavelength (1064 nm), ideal for darker skin tones, providing deeper penetration and safety.
How Does It Work?
Laser hair removal isn’t a one-time procedure; it requires 5–8 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for long-lasting results. The process moves through three stages: preparation, laser application, and post-treatment results.
Preparation
Before starting the procedure, the medical provider will adjust the laser settings based on the area you want to be treated. Both you and the practitioner must wear protective eyewear. A gel or protective layer is applied to the skin to ensure comfort and a cooling effect.
Laser Pulses
The provider places the laser device on the skin and activates it. A concentrated beam of light travels into the skin and targets the melanin inside hair follicles. You may feel a warm tingling or a cooling sensation.
Modern systems, like the Lutronic Clarity II, include built-in cooling technology. It keeps the skin comfortable and reduces the risk of irritation during laser treatment.
Final Result
The heat generated by the laser damages hair follicles, slowing or stopping future hair growth. A session may take 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the area being treated.
It’s normal to experience slight redness or swelling afterward, usually fading within a few hours. However, the results will improve gradually with each session, ensuring a reduction that can last months to years.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal provides results that last far longer than shaving or waxing. With consistent sessions, it not only reduces hair growth but also saves you time, effort, and long-term costs. Some of the most notable benefits include:
- Long-Lasting Hair Reduction
- Fewer Sessions & Less Discomfort
- Minimal Side Effects & High Safety
- Improved Skin Texture
- Highly Effective & Time-Saving
Areas For Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal can be done on almost any part of the body. However, the results depend on hair thickness, skin sensitivity, hormonal activity, and your natural growth cycle. Here’s a clear breakdown of the most commonly treated areas and what to expect:
Full coverage
Full-body laser hair removal covers major areas, including the face, arms, legs, underarms, bikini area, chest, and stomach. The exact parts covered depend on the package you choose.
A full-body session typically takes 60–90 minutes, and most people need 6–12 sessions for a 90% reduction, especially those with dense or fast hair growth. It’s ideal if you want uniform results and smoother skin everywhere.
Face
Facial laser hair removal targets areas such as the chin, upper lip, neck, jawline, sideburns, forehead, and, sometimes, the cheeks. It works best on dark, coarse hair. Since facial skin is more delicate and influenced by hormones, some areas may require additional sessions for long-term results.
Body
This includes mostly larger areas such as:
- Arms
- Legs
- Underarms
- Stomach
- Back
- Chest
- Hands and feet
Larger areas, such as the legs and back, may take longer to treat. However, smaller areas, such as the underarms, are quick and highly effective. Typically, men opt for back and chest, while women commonly choose legs and arms.
Sensitive Areas
This category covers regions where the skin is thinner or more delicate:
- Bikini line
- Full bikini/Brazilian
- Underarms
- Inner thighs
- Stomach line
A Brazilian covers complete hair removal from the intimate area. This includes front, back, and everything in between. Sensitive areas often respond very well to lasers but may require gentler settings depending on individual comfort.
Before & After Treatment
Proper pre- and post-treatment care ensures safe and effective results while minimizing side effects. Follow these guidelines to get the best outcome from your sessions.
Pre-treatment
- Shave the targeted area 2–3 days in advance.
- Avoid tanning beds or sun exposure for at least six weeks before the treatment.
- Skip blood-thinning medications if possible, as advised by your provider.
- Avoid exfoliating or harsh skin treatments on the area before your session.
Post-treatment
After your session, follow these tips for faster recovery and optimal results:
- Apply a cold compress, soothing lotion, or gel to the treated area to help calm it.
- Avoid heat exposure, such as hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, or exercise, for at least 72 hours.
- Wear sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure to protect your skin and have lasting results.
- Wait at least 10 days before shaving the treated area.
Laser Hair Removal Cost
The cost varies depending on the area you want to treat, your skin tone, and the package you choose. Other factors include the technology used, the practitioner’s expertise, the number of sessions, and the size of the treatment area.
In Garner, NC, these can create a range of costs for each treatment type, making it important to discuss your personalized plan with a provider.
|
Treatment |
Price |
|
Full Body |
$1500-$12000 |
|
Full Face |
$200-$1200 |
|
Bikini Area |
$100-$600 |
|
Brazilian |
$200-$1200 |
|
Hands |
$100-$600 |
| $200-$1200 | |
|
Full Back |
$300-$1200 |
Professional vs. At-Home Laser Hair Removal
Many people wonder whether to try laser hair removal at home or seek professional treatment. While both can reduce hair, they work very differently. At-home devices are designed for convenience but lack the precision, expertise, and customization that a trained provider offers.
Technology has made at-home treatments easier, but professional knowledge is still essential to avoid side effects, burns, or uneven results. At-home devices may seem like a cost-effective option, but they often require more sessions and excessive time for professional results.
Why Choose MarSha MedSpa for Laser Hair Removal in Garner, NC
If you’re searching for effective laser hair removal, MarSha MedSpa is a trusted choice. The spa uses the FDA-approved Lutronic Clarity II system, featuring dual-wavelength technology and a built-in cooling mechanism for safe, precise, and comfortable treatments.
All procedures are performed by certified, experienced medical providers. They offer personalized consultations and treatment plans for each patient. The focus is on minimal discomfort, maximum safety, and long-lasting results.
MarSha MedSpa primarily serves Garner, NC, but clients from surrounding areas, such as Raleigh, Clayton, and the Triangle, can also access its services.
Professional treatments at MarSha MedSpa save you time and effort. Thus, it requires fewer sessions and yields better results than at-home devices. For smooth, radiant skin with minimal side effects, book a consultation today and get a plan customized specifically to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser hair removal permanent?
No, it’s not 100% permanent, but it can offer long-lasting results, from months to years, after 6-8 sessions.
How much is laser hair removal?
The cost varies depending on the treatment area, the type of laser, the package selected, and the number of sessions required.
How long does laser hair removal last?
Results typically last months to years after completing 6–8 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
You may feel mild discomfort or a cooling sensation, which varies depending on your skin sensitivity and the area being treated.