It generally depends on each individual's pain threshold. What may be excruciating pain for some may be just a tickle for others. The majority of clients say that laser hair removal is simply uncomfortable and is compared to a rubber band snapping on the skin. Because the laser light itself does produce a small amount of heat you will feel a sensation as it works to remove the hair. Follicles are covered in nerve endings which for some people can create a slight discomfort or mild pain.
People with darker thicker hair may need multiple treatments to reach the desired effect they are looking for. Dark, thick hair is able to absorb more of the laser light which could hurt more than people with lighter, thinner hair. Typically, the hair being treated becomes thinner after each laser light treatment so it does get easier and less painful after the initial treatment.
Some clinics are able to use a numbing cream on the area that is being treated to lessen the amount of pain being felt by the customer. Discuss your paint tolerance with your clinician so that they can determine the best course of treatment for you. This will make it much easier for the clinician to make it as comfortable as possible and the pain minimal.
There are many tips and ideas that could also make the laser hair removal process easier and less painful. Make sure to wear loose, cool clothing to your appointment. Many women say after the appointment the skin feels similar to being sun-burnt. Wearing cool clothing will help alleviate this.
Take a pain reliever such as Tylenol or Advil an hour or so before arriving. This should also help ease any pain you might experience. One of the most common hints given to soothe the skin is using an Aloe Vera cream or lotion on the area that was treated after your appointment. This will soothe the skin and moisturize the area as well. Make sure to continue applying the aloe cream for about 24 hours after your treatment to soothe the skin.
