Many women - and even men - struggle each month with unsightly, unwanted hair. Waxing, plucking, shaving and more. But the hair always grows back. Don't you wish that you could take care of it once and for all? Maybe you've heard about laser hair removal and wondered whether it could be the answer.

Laser hair removal treatments can offer a permanent, effective solution for those bothered by dark, coarse hair growth. You'll also save money over the long term when you consider the added cost of monthly waxing treatments over a lifetime. Whether you wish to get rid of facial hair, underarm hair, treat bikini areas, chest or back hair, or even hair on your arms or legs, soft, smooth skin can be yours.

Just watch this video to witness the quick and painless hair removal process accomplished through laser treatments.

While laser hair removal treatments do employ "lasers," the process is not painful as it might sound. Put away your images of "Star Wars" light sabers. Patients that undergo laser treatments experience a mild sensation from the emissions of light from a handheld device. Before the laser device is used, a cooling agent is applied to the skin, usually either gel or cryogen spray.

Technicians use the laser device to treat top layers of skin with wavelengths of light that target material darker than the surrounding tissue. In effect, the light zeros in on pigmented hair. The hair follicle is damaged by the laser treatment, impeding hair regrowth, but the surrounding skin is not harmed. The beams of lasers are about 4 times as wide as the target is deep - an area about the size of your fingertip will be targeted each time. Two or three pulses will be released and then the technician will move to an adjacent area to continue the treatment until complete.

Laser hair removal treatment works best when hair is actively growing. Because not all hair grows at the same time, about 4-6 treatments are typically required for best results.

1. Is laser hair removal permanent?

Depending on the area treated, laser hair removal is between 90-95% effective. Occasionally, you may need a touch-up session after the initial 4-6 hair removal sessions. Overall, however, the results are nothing short of amazing! Even if there is hair regrowth, it is finer and lighter than before.

2. Does laser hair removal hurt?

Actually, no. And it is safe for any area of the body, except for those adjacent to the eyes. Not only that, but compared to electrolysis or waxing it is so much faster. An entire back can be treated within one hour, versus 125 hours with electrolysis. No, that is not a typo!

Also, if you have concerns, rest assured that lasers have been approved by the FDA for permanent hair reduction. Side effects include possible flare up of acne.

3. How much does laser hair removal cost?

The cost depends in part on how much hair you are looking to remove. Also, some areas are more receptive to laser hair removal than others. Fortunately, for women, the bikini area and legs are among the best places to use laser hair removal. The effective rate is 95%!

A single treatment costs between $400-$450. Consider that it usually takes at least 4 sessions to see the best results, and most people have 6-8 sessions. Sessions are usually spaced 3-6 weeks apart.

Overall, you should expect to spend between $1500-3000.

4. Can laser hair removal be used by anyone?

Yes and no. Women and men alike can use laser hair removal. However, the overall effectiveness will vary, depending on the hue of your skin and contrast between skin and hair. Because the lasers are keyed to detect darker melanin, it will work best on people with light skin and dark hair. Grey or blonde hair will be difficult to detect. Also, darker skinned individuals may have less contrast between skin and hair. Still, do not be discouraged if you have darker skin, or lighter hair. New lasers have been developed that are more effective on a broader range of individuals.

While you may see advertisements for at home laser hair removal treatments - beware! The devices may not be safe for at home use. In addition, you may be disappointed with the results. For a professional result, see a laser hair removal professional. Clinics can be found all over the country and abroad.

Consider the cost to be an investment in your beautiful future. Within several months, you can be free of the hassles of shaving, waxing and plucking forever!