What is it?

Laser hair removal is a procedure to remove unwanted body hair. People may want the treatment on their underarms, back or bikini area. It’s not permanent, but the results last longer than shaving or waxing. Most people need about six treatments. It’s usually safe, but side effects can include burns, scars or permanent skin discoloration.

How does it work?

Laser hair removal uses a process called selective photothermolysis. Heat from a laser destroys cells that have a lot of pigment (color). Since dark hair has a lot of pigment, it absorbs the most heat. Hair transfers heat to the hair follicles and destroys them, so hair can’t grow.
A hair follicle has to be in its anagen, or growth, stage for the procedure to work. Follicles are in different stages at different times, so most people need multiple laser treatments.