I Tried Laser Hair Removal—Here’s What You Need to Know

Estimated Reading Time: 6-7 mins

What Are Included:

  • Introduction

  • How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

  • Can Laser Help with Skin Concerns?

  • How Many Treatment Sessions Do You Need?

  • Who’s the Best Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

  • Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

  • How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?

  • How to Care for Your Skin After Treatment

  • How to Maintain Your Results

  • Conclusion

  I’ve waxed, shaved, epilated—you name it. The cycle never ends, and frankly, I was tired. So I decided to try laser hair removal. I did a full course, and here’s exactly what I wish someone had told me before I started. If you’re considering it, here’s a full breakdown of what to expect, from prep to aftercare.

  I started shaving my arms and legs in middle school. All I want is to avoid being teased in gym class. Little did I know that this would become a burdensome chore, one that would be synonymous with discomfort, irritation, and a litany of skin concerns. Up til my college time, I was taking care of peach fuzz. As I aged, however, the unwanted hair on my limbs became uber-thick and coarse. Shaving again and again with trepidation and a prayer, I still lose to my enemy: folliculities. It is a variation of ingrown hairs, often called “razor bumps,” that can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. In my limbs, folliculitis manifested as many, many pesky, itching, and reddish pores and acne.

  I’d tried everything under the sun—disposable razors, safety razors, ones with aloe strips, silky shave gels, fluffy foam creams, and even using face wash as a stand-in for shaving cream. I followed each shave with a stinging aftershave or hot steam to open pores. You name it, I gave it a shot. By the time I hit 28, I was one stubborn breakout away from blessing my skin with holy water just to banish my relentless folliculitis. Before going full exorcism, though, I decided to give one last option a try in my quest for baby-smooth, dolphin-level skin: laser hair removal.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal might sound high-tech, but the idea is pretty simple and effective. The laser emits a concentrated beam of light that targets the pigment (melanin) in your hair. That light travels down the hair shaft and heats the hair follicle at the root, which damages it just enough to slow down or stop future hair growth.

The treatment is precise—it targets the hair without harming the surrounding skin. That’s why it’s become such a popular option for people looking to reduce unwanted hair long-term without the irritation that comes with constant shaving or waxing.

Can Laser Hair Removal Help with Skin Concerns?

I learned from aestheticians that laser hair removal won’t hurt as much as shaving. It is commonly used to treat more than just unwanted hair. It can also help manage recurring skin conditions, such as folliculitis and hidradenitis suppurativa. 

There is a deeply emotional connection between hair and self-esteem. People always find out that their self-confidence and self-determination relate to hair, too. My aestheticians told me that advanced laser hair removal technology needs to be done with more empathy, patience, and understanding.

How Many Treatment Sessions Do I Need?

I ended up doing six sessions, four weeks apart. Some people need more, all determined by their hair thickness or the growth cycle.

Each session takes about 20 to 30 minutes for the underarms and bikini line. It’s fast—surprisingly fast. I’d go during lunch breaks and go back before anyone noticed.

Who’s the Best Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

Here’s the deal: Laser hair removal works best on light skin and dark hair, since the laser needs contrast to find its target between skin and hair follicles. That said, advanced machines like Nd: YAG lasers can treat deeper skin tones more safely. My aestheticians used the Sierra Refine laser, which works well for my medium-light skin and dark brown hair.

If you have blonde, red, or gray hair, hair removal may be affected. Always ask your aesthetician about the technology, whether it’s right for your skin tone.

Does Laser Facial Hair Removal Hurt?

I felt a little pain from the treatments. It is like tiny rubber bands snapping against my skin—tolerable. The bikini area was spicier than the legs, but numbing cream helped a lot. The zap is fast, and it’s over before you know it.

After treatments, I only had a bit of redness and mild swelling, like a sunburn. Then, it faded within a day. However, it is essential to avoid hot showers and workouts for at least 24 hours.

How Much Does Laser Facial Hair Removal Cost?

Laser hair removal returns you far more than its costs. My aestheticians found that a laser from Sierra Refine is cost-effective. This treatment is more comfortable than waxing and shaving, and its results remain longer than shaving. In the long run, lasers are more cost-effective than other treatments. 

Pro tips: Ask your aestheticians about seasonal promotions or first-time discounts. That's the secret for my little cost and long return. I received 20% by booking a package deal.

How to Care for Your Skin After the Laser Treatment

After each session, I was advised to keep the area cool and clean—no sun, no heat, no tight clothing. I used a gentle aloe gel to soothe any redness and used SPF on treated areas that were exposed to the sun.

Avoid exfoliating or using harsh products for at least 5 days. And don’t be alarmed if you see hair shedding—it’s a good sign.

How to Maintain Your Laser Facial Hair Removal Results?

The results? Game-changing. After six sessions, about 80–90% of my hair was gone, and my remaining strands were way finer and slower to grow. I did one touch-up session a few months later, and honestly, I haven’t picked up shaving in ages.

Please remember: Laser hair removal isn’t permanent—hormones and life can cause regrowth—but it’s a long-term win. Consistency is the key, once or twice a year, keeping things smooth.

Thanks for browsing here. We all struggle with our coarse and thick hair for a long time. Now, the game will be changed by an advanced laser hair removal machine. Thanks to my aestheticians who discovered this game changer, and thanks to Sierra Refine, who provided this powerful machine. You make me feel confident with my smooth skin now.

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