Laser Hair Removal: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Laser Hair Removal?
A dermatologist, a doctor who treats the skin, hair, and nails, performs laser hair removal. The AAD says to choose a board-certified dermatologist for laser treatments. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Laser hair removal uses lasers to remove unwanted hair. A laser removes hair by vaporizing it. It works best for people with light-colored skin and dark-colored hair. Lasers made for hair removal can be used on most parts of the body. These include the armpits, back, bikini area, chest, face, legs, neck, and shoulders.
Why a doctor might recommend it
People who are tired of shaving, plucking, or waxing may want to think about laser hair removal. It may also help people who get razor bumps or acne-like breakouts when they remove hair.
How to prepare
A dermatologist always offers a consultation before laser hair removal.
Tell your dermatologist if you tend to scar, have a recent tan, or have ever had a keloid, which is a type of raised scar. Also tell your dermatologist if you tend to get cold sores or genital herpes outbreaks. Tell your dermatologist if you have taken isotretinoin, a medicine used to treat severe acne. Also tell them about any other medicine you take, even one you buy without a prescription, such as aspirin. Start following your dermatologist's instructions right away, since this helps lower the chance of side effects. Do not tan, either outdoors or indoors, and do not use sunless tanners. Use sunscreen every day before you go outdoors. It should be broad-spectrum, SPF 30+, and water-resistant.
What happens during it
The area to be treated is cleansed first, and some patients get a numbing gel. Everyone in the room wears protective eyewear. The skin is held taut while it is treated with the laser. Treating the upper lip takes minutes, while a large area like the back or legs may take more than an hour.
Recovery
Laser hair removal generally does not need any real downtime. Right after treatment, the skin is red and swollen. Even so, most people return to their everyday activities. To avoid side effects, protect your skin from the sun and do not use a tanning bed, sun lamp, or other indoor tanning equipment. Follow your dermatologist's after-care instructions.
Risks and side effects
The most common side effects are minor and last 1 to 3 days. They include discomfort, swelling, and redness. Other side effects are rare when a dermatologist does the treatment or directly supervises it. They include blistering, cold sore outbreaks, infections, scarring, and skin lightening or darkening. Skin color tends to return to normal in time, but some changes to skin color are permanent. In inexperienced hands, it can cause burns, permanent changes to skin color, and scars.
Who performs it
A dermatologist performs laser hair removal, or supervises the person who does it. Choose a medical doctor who is extremely skilled with lasers and knows the skin well.
Common questions
Does laser hair removal hurt?
Many patients say the laser pulses feel like warm pinpricks or a rubber band being snapped against the skin. Numbing gel can help when a small area is treated and the skin is very sensitive.
How many laser hair removal treatments will I need?
Removing hair often requires a series of laser treatments. Most patients can have it once every 4 to 6 weeks. Your dermatologist will tell you when it is safe to have another treatment.
Will the hair grow back after laser hair removal?
Most patients see some hair regrowth. Most patients stay hair free for months or even years. Hair that grows back is likely to be less noticeable. A patient may need maintenance laser treatments to keep the area free of hair.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology - Laser hair removal: FAQs
- American Academy of Dermatology - Laser hair removal: Preparation
- American Academy of Dermatology - Laser hair removal: Overview
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
