By
Your Beauty Plug
Laser hair removal on the face is a noninvasive medical procedure that uses a beam of light (a laser) to remove hair from the face. It’s a very common procedure, with data from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery showing that in 2016, laser hair removal was one of the top 5 nonsurgical procedures in the United States.
Laser hair removal works by sending a light into the hair follicle via laser, which is absorbed by the pigment, or melanin, in the hair. When the light is absorbed by the pigment, it’s converted to heat, which is what actually damages the follicle. After the laser damages the hair follicle, the hair vaporizes, and a full round of treatments later the hair will stop growing back.
Laser hair removal on the face is used primarily around the mouth, chin, or cheeks. It can be done on other parts of the body too, like the armpits, legs, or bikini area.
One session of laser hair removal will typically cost anywhere between $200 and $400, and you’ll likely need at least 4 to 6 sessions, spaced about a month apart. Because laser hair removal is an elective cosmetic procedure, it will not be covered by insurance.
Laser hair removal is generally considered to be a safe procedure. Side effects may include redness or swelling, and in rare cases burning, blistering, or infection. The laser equipment is FDA-approved.
Laser hair removal requires no downtime, and the procedure itself is quick and takes less than 30 minutes for the face. It should only be performed by a medical professional or a highly trained aesthetician.
Q: Is laser hair removal permanent? A: If done correctly, laser hair removal on the face will permanently get rid of hair.
Q: How many sessions are typically needed? A: You will typically need 4 to 6 sessions, plus a yearly maintenance appointment.
Q: How long does each session take? A: The procedure itself is quick and takes less than 30 minutes for the face.
Q: Can anyone get laser hair removal? A: Thanks to advancements in laser technology, it’s a suitable procedure for anyone who has unwanted hair they’d like to remove.
Q: Is laser hair removal painful? A: Most patients describe the sensation as a slight pinch or a rubber band snap. However, everyone’s pain tolerance is different, and some areas of the body may be more sensitive than others.
Q: Can I shave between laser hair removal treatments? A: Yes, you can. In fact, it’s recommended that you shave the day before your appointment. This allows the laser to better target the hair follicle.
Q: Can I wax or pluck between laser hair removal treatments? A: No, you should avoid waxing, plucking, or any hair removal method that removes the hair from the root. These methods can disrupt the hair growth cycle and affect the effectiveness of the laser treatment.
Q: Can I get laser hair removal if I have a tattoo? A: No, you can’t get laser done on your eyelids or the surrounding areas or anywhere that has been tattooed.
Q: Can I go in the sun after laser hair removal? A: You should avoid sun exposure for 6 weeks before and after treatment. Sun exposure makes laser hair removal less effective and makes complications after treatment more likely.
Q: Can I wear makeup after laser hair removal? A: It’s best to avoid makeup for at least 24 hours after the procedure to allow your skin to heal.
Laser hair removal on the face is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair. It’s a quick procedure that requires no downtime, making it a convenient option for many people. However, it’s important to remember that it’s a medical procedure that should only be performed by a trained professional. Always do your research and consult with a professional to determine if laser hair removal is the right choice for you.
