How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?

If you've ever wanted to get rid of unwanted hair growth, laser hair removal is a relatively simple solution. The treatment is non-invasive, with little to no downtime. And while it may take a few sessions to get the look you want, the final results can last from months to years.¹

There are many good reasons to opt for laser hair removal. Some people get tired of waxing or shaving and simply want to save time in the long run. Others may find that other hair removal techniques irritate their skin, causing razor burns, allergic reactions or ingrown hairs. For them, laser treatment might be easier on their skin overall.²

But if you're considering this type of hair removal, you'll want to do your research first and talk to your doctor. Not everyone is a good candidate, and there are a few potential side effects you'll want to keep in mind.

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal involves using a concentrated beam of light to remove unwanted hair from specific parts of your body. As the pigment in the hair shaft absorbs the light, your hair follicle is damaged, hindering future hair growth.³

It typically takes four to six sessions to achieve the desired results, since your hair grows in cycles.² However, it can sometimes take as few as two sessions.¹

Most Common Body Parts for Laser Hair Removal

The parts of the body that most commonly receive laser treatment include:²

• Face (such as chin, upper lip or another area)

• Legs

• Armpits

• Forearms

• Bikini area

• Brazilian wax region

• Stomach

• Back

If you want the treatment on a different body part, your practitioner may be able to work with you on your request.²

Exploring the Various Types of Lasers

Different types of lasers are used for hair removal. Your practitioner will evaluate and determine which is right for you. The best type for you will depend on your skin and hair color. Some examples include:⁴

• Ruby laser (best for lighter skin with dark hair)

• Alexandrite laser (best for lighter hair)

• Diode laser (safer for darker skin)

• Nd:YAG laser (useful for almost any skin type)

• Intense pulse or broadband light (better for larger areas, but may not be as effective)

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?

The average cost of laser hair removal varies based on a number of factors, such as the area of the body treated, the size of the area, the number of laser treatments needed to gain the desired result and the geographic area where the procedure is performed.⁵

Below, you'll see the average cost* of different types of laser removal in the U.S., based on CareCredit’s 2023 Average Procedural Cost study:⁵

Average cost for laser hair removal in the U.S.

These prices are based on a single treatment.⁵ In most cases, you'll need two to six treatments total.¹ After that, it could be months to years before you want treatment in the same area again.¹

Costs can vary based on your geographic location. For example, the average cost* of bikini hair removal in Nebraska is $376, but in Maine it's $616.⁵

Is Laser Hair Removal Covered by Insurance?

Laser hair removal isn't usually covered by health insurance because it's often considered cosmetic rather than medically necessary.⁶ However, there are some policies that will provide exceptions for a few medically necessary procedures, such as hair removal for gender-affirming surgeries.⁷

If you're interested in laser hair removal and it's not covered, there are several payment options you can consider. If you have the funds readily available, you can tap into your savings. If you're interested in paying over time, many providers accept the CareCredit credit card.

Good Candidates for Laser Hair Removal

Patients with light-colored skin and dark-colored hair will achieve the best results from laser hair removal.¹ Darker-skinned patients may need a laser that's not as strong so their skin is less likely to be damaged.⁸

If you've recently tanned or even used a spray tan, you'll need to wait until your skin is back to its regular color before getting treated or the treatment may not work as well.⁸

If you're pregnant, it's best to wait until after your pregnancy for treatment. Although laser hair removal is safe overall, there simply isn't enough evidence for doctors to label the treatment as safe for pregnant women.⁹

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal is a straightforward procedure with little to no downtime. It's typically not very painful, either. At most, your skin might feel like rubber bands are being snapped against it while you're treated.²

You'll need at least two to six treatments before finishing your laser hair removal. The first treatment typically reduces about 10% to 25% of your hair. Usually, you have to wait at least four to six weeks between treatments.¹

Preparation

Before your laser hair removal treatment, your doctor will typically take a detailed medical history from you and choose the right laser for your skin and hair type. To prepare, you may be asked to do the following:⁴

• Don't pluck or wax for six weeks before your treatment.

• Use a prescription sunscreen four to six weeks beforehand.

• Shave early enough that there's slight stubble on the skin before your treatment.

• Avoid certain skincare products, such as those with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.²

Procedure

The amount of time each session takes depends on the part of your body being treated. Your legs or back will take about an hour or more. Your upper lip may just take a few minutes. You can expect the following:¹

• First, the area of your skin being treated will be cleansed.

• You may be given a numbing gel. If so, you'll wait 30 to 60 minutes for the gel to take effect.

• You and the people treating you will wear eye protection.

• While the laser is used, you might feel warmth or a pinprick sensation.

Recovery and side effects

After your treatment, you'll notice some swelling, redness and discomfort that could last about one to three days. It might feel like you have a sunburn. Despite this, many people return to work quickly and don't need any downtime.¹

You'll still need to take a few precautions as you recover:¹

• Don't use any indoor tanning equipment.

• Don't allow direct sunlight to hit the part of your skin that's been treated.

• Use a cool compress if you feel pain or discomfort.

Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?

Even though it's a relatively safe procedure, laser hair removal isn't without its potential side effects, which may include:¹

• Burns⁴

• Scars

• Permanent changes to your skin's color

• Blistering, crusting or skin texture changes⁸

• Cold sores in the treated area

• Infections

If you're worried about cancer, laser hair removal involves non-ionizing radiation, which doesn't cause the cellular damage related to cancer. In contrast, examples of ionizing radiation include gamma rays and X-rays.¹⁰

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends seeing a board-certified dermatologist to best mitigate laser treatment side effects.¹

Laser hair removal is a relatively pain-free, quick treatment with little to no downtime. If you're tired of shaving or waxing and want longer-lasting results, you'll want to discuss this treatment with your doctor.

Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Laser hair removal isn't typically permanent. Usually, the area treated won't experience hair regrowth for months or even years. Some people may choose not to repeat the treatment once the hair does grow back. This is because the hair may grow back finer and lighter in color, so it's less visible.¹

While there are many types of hair removal treatments overall (such as waxing, plucking, shaving or electrolysis), laser removal tends to be the most effective in the long term.⁴

Financing Laser Hair Removal With the CareCredit Credit Card

When getting laser hair removal or another cosmetic procedure, the CareCredit credit card can help you pay for costs not covered by insurance.** Use our Acceptance Locator to find a doctor or cosmetic specialist near you that accepts CareCredit. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to cosmetic procedures, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, pet care, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Stephanie Dwilson specializes in science journalism, breaking news and animal health. She's a business owner, attorney and writer.