Laser Hair Removal Cost and Concerns

The newest innovation in keeping your body smooth and hair free is laser hair removal, but like any new development, the costs can be high. Here's a look at how laser hair removal works and what it's going to cost you.

Laser hair removal works by targeting the hair's roots with a pulse of light. This light is targeted at melanin, which is why those with dark hair and light skin are the best candidates for this type of hair removal. Those with dark skin should not undergo laser hair removal, as the pulse will target the melanin in your skin rather than in the hair follicle and may cause burns. Shortly after treatment the affected hairs will begin to fall out. Since different hairs will be in different parts of their growth cycle at a time, you will need several treatments before you achieve the results you want. The FDA has approved laser hair removal as a “permanent hair reduction” technique, but not permanent hair removal, so it is possible that you will see some regrowth in time. Ask your specific clinic what their policies are on touch ups. Some clinics will offer free touch ups for a year or more after purchasing one of their packages.

The cost of laser hair removal varies by region and by what area is being treated. The average national cost for one treatment is $366. The range for bikini line is $350-$500, for back hair $600-$900, for lower or upper legs $600-$850, for arms $300-500, for chest $350-$600, for underarms $250-$350, and for face and neck $600-$900. On average, most people will need 5-8 treatments to achieve their desired results. Most centers will offer some sort of package for your treatment. Some will even offer as many treatments as necessary for one specific area at a base price. Talk to the treatment centers in your area to find out about these packages or possible seasonal discounts.

If you are looking for an alternative to in office treatment, the TRIA is a pulsed light device for hair removal that is FDA approved for home use. It costs $795, but is not approved for use on the face or neck. Many people have had good results with this device, but the surface area of the pulsed light is small, thus treating an area may take a long time. In addition, the device must be charged. It does not work while plugged in and a single charge lasts around half an hour. This is a more tedious, but cost effective method of laser hair removal.

There are some concerns about laser hair removal. Some people have suffered burns, scarring, or hyper-pigmentation. This occurs most frequently on patients with darker skin. In addition, some patients will see a complete regrowth of the hair over time, most often patients with the lightest hair. It is important to discuss all possible risks and costs with your provider before beginning any program. Be careful of any laser hair removal centers that offer deeply discounted prices, as these may not have the certifications or the skills necessary to treat you safely and effectively.