- The cost of laser hair removal varies by hair type and thickness, the type of laser used, body area being treated and number of sessions required
- Your geographic location and choice of provider also impact price
- You can expect to pay between $50–$500 per session
Laser hair removal is an effective, long-term solution to target unwanted hair anywhere on the body. But how much does laser hair removal cost? The answer depends on many factors, including which area of the body you’re having treated and which laser is used.
Contents
Understanding Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal involves injuring or destroying hair follicles with highly precise pulses of laser light. The light targets melanin—the pigment that gives hair its color—which absorbs the light, converts it to heat and damages or destroys the follicle.
Hair must be in the anagen or active growth phase of the hair growth cycle for this treatment to be effective. Because each hair follicle goes through the growth cycle at different times and speeds, multiple treatment sessions are necessary. Most people have 6–8 initial sessions scheduled 4–8 weeks apart, then book yearly maintenance sessions, as necessary.
While the treatment won’t leave you 100% hair-free, it’s widely accepted as a successful approach for removing hair in both men and women.
The Average Cost of Laser Hair Removal
According to 2020 statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average provider fee for a session is $389. However, the total cost of your treatment will vary depending on the size of the area being treated and how responsive your hair is; thick, coarse hair requires more sessions than finer, lighter hair.
Leg Laser Hair Removal Cost
When getting leg laser hair removal, you can decide between treating the upper legs, lower legs or both. Upper or lower legs can cost about $400, while a full leg treatment can be $500 to $600.
Facial Laser Hair Removal Cost
The face and neck are comparatively inexpensive to treat and typically include:
- Back of the neck
- Chin
- Lower face
- Sideburns
- Upper lip
The upper lip could cost as little as $100 per session; the entire lower face about $250.
Chest and Back Laser Hair Removal Cost
Larger areas such as the chest or back typically cost around $500. If you don’t need hair removed from your entire torso, treatment can be individualized to target specific areas such as:
- Lower abdomen
- Lower back
- Upper back
- Upper chest
- Shoulders
These areas typically have the same cost per treatment, which is around $300.
Bikini and Underarm Laser Hair Removal Cost
Both underarms typically cost from $175–$225 per treatment. Hair removal for the bikini area ranges from $250–$350 depending on whether the treatment area is the size of a typical bikini wax or a fully nude Brazilian, while buttocks have a similar price point.
What’s Included in the Cost of Laser Hair Removal?
Your total cost for a session typically includes all aspects of the laser hair removal treatment, including:
- The office visit
- Application of a topical anesthetic
- Laser treatment
- Postcare topical application of soothing agents and sunscreen
Laser Hair Removal Cost by Device Type
There are a variety of technologies on the market for laser hair removal treatments, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. To choose the right laser for you, consult with your provider; they will assess your hair and skin type to find the best possible option.
Alexandrite (755 nm)
Fast and extremely effective, the alexandrite laser is one of the most popular lasers on the market for rapidly treating large areas of the body. While earlier iterations of the alexandrite laser caused discomfort, newer versions are less painful.
One large-scale study review found that alexandrite lasers reduced the amount of hair by 16%more than the Nd:YAG laser and created fewer short-term complications than diode lasers. However, they had more associated complications than Nd:YAG and IPL devices.
Another study of alexandrite laser patients found that 100% of them were satisfied with their results and that any remaining hair in their treatment areas was too light to be noticeable.
Alexandrite lasers can treat all skin tones, including Fitzpatrick types IV–VI, without permanent adverse effects, provided the correct energy settings and treatment protocols are used.
Hair removal with an alexandrite device can cost between $125–$240, depending on the model. There are several brands to choose from including:
- Candela GentleLase
- Cynosure Apogee
- Deka Motus AX
- EpiTouch Plus
Diode (810 nm)
Diode lasers are a newer technology that are considered safe and effective for all skin phototypes, including darker skin tones. A diode laser penetrates more deeply into the skin, reducing the amount of energy absorbed by the epidermis relative to the hair follicle and therefore lowers the risk of scarring and burns in skin of color.
Diode laser treatments are on the expensive side, costing an average of $200 for a single treatment.
Well-known diode laser brands that are currently on the market include:
- Apex
- Epistar
- F1 Diode
- LaserLite
- LightSheer
- MeDioStar
- SLP
- SopranoXL
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
While not a true laser, IPL works on a similar principle: it uses pulses of light to destroy hair follicles. Rather than a single wavelength, it emits a broad spectrum of visible light.
IPL’s use for hair removal is limited, as good candidates must have fair skin and dark hair for treatment to be effective. If your hair and skin color are too similar, the light will be absorbed by melanin in the skin, causing pain, blisters and burns.
IPL hair removal prices vary depending on the model and can range from $50–$200 per treatment.
A few popular IPL devices used for hair removal are:
- Aculight
- Alma
- Epilight
- PhotoDerm
- Quantum
- Vasculight
Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm)
The Nd:YAG laser is an effective, safe choice for hair removal on all skin types. It’s currently considered the best choice for darker skin tones. Expect to pay $200–$500 per session, depending on the size of the treatment area.
Some Nd:YAG devices commonly found at medspas and laser clinics include:
- Cynosure Elite
- Candela
- Cutera Excel
- GentleYAG
- Lyra
- Medlite IV
- Sciton
Ruby (694 nm)
The first laser hair removal device made commercially available, the Ruby is designed for use on lighter skin and dark hair. It’s not safe for darker skin tones, as this wavelength tends to destroy melanin in the skin; it can’t effectively treat blond, red or gray hair because these colors lack the pigment necessary to absorb the light.
Despite its limitations, the Ruby has decades of data to back up its safety profile and is relatively inexpensive compared to new technologies, costing approximately $200 per session.
Common Ruby lasers include:
- EpiPulse Ruby
- Palomar
- RubyStar
Your Location and Other Cost Variables
Laser hair removal prices are influenced by geographic location and your choice of provider. Typically, urban areas are more expensive than rural areas, and a highly experienced technician at a medical spa will charge more than an aesthetician at a beauty salon.
To reduce your risk of side effects, choose a reputable provider who is well acquainted with laser treatments.
Laser Hair Removal Financing Options
Laser hair removal is not covered by health insurance as it’s considered an elective cosmetic procedure. It may be covered if it’s treating a condition that causes hirsutism, excessive dark hair growth, which is one symptom of polycystic ovarian syndrome.
To help make treatment costs more manageable, many providers offer financing options such as CareCredit. These options are low- or deferred-interest credit cards designed specifically for medical and cosmetic treatments not covered by insurance.
Additionally, some providers offer yearly packages or flat rates for limitless hair removal on a specific body area, no matter how many sessions you need. If you think you’ll require a large number of sessions, these can be more cost-effective than paying a per-session price.
Laser Hair Removal vs. Waxing and Other Hair Removal Methods
In some cases, laser hair removal can be more cost-effective than other depilatory methods.
For example, if you visit a salon for a $100 Brazilian wax every 3 weeks, you’d save money in the long run by investing $3,000 in laser hair removal.
In other cases, the treatment might be more expensive than other methods, yet still preferable. For instance, if you have unwanted facial hair, laser hair removal can be more convenient than shaving every day.
Takeaway
Laser hair removal is a highly effective, long-term solution for unwanted body hair and facial hair. The cost varies widely depending on the size of the treatment area, the number of treatments required and the technology being used. You can pay as little as $50 for small areas and up to $500 for large areas, per session.
Ruby lasers, older alexandrite lasers and IPL treatments are relatively inexpensive; however, they’re more painful and less efficient than other options and aren’t safe for darker skin tones.
Newer alexandrite, diode and ND:YAG lasers are safe options for all skin types, with the Nd:YAG being considered the best for darker skin tones. While these technologies are more expensive, their versatility makes them the most common devices used for laser hair removal today.
To make treatments more affordable, many providers offer package deals as well as financing options through deferred-interest credit cards.
Sources
- Goldberg DJ. Laser- and light-based hair removal: an update. Expert Rev Med Devices. 2007;4(2):253-260. doi:10.1586/17434440.4.2.253
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons.2020 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Statistics/2020/plastic-surgery-statistics-full-report-2020.pdf
- Pashazadeh F, Yaaghoobian B, Hajebrahimi S, Pashazadeh H. Technology assessment of long-pulsed Alexandrite laser device for hair removal: A systematic review. Medical Science. 2019;23(99):820-828. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336370767_Technology_assessment_of_long-pulsed_Alexandrite_laser_device_for_hair_removal_A_systematic_review
- Tugba Altunel C, Pelin Kartal S. Reconceptualizing the permanence of alexandrite laser hair removal results: a long-term follow-up study. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2020;22(6-8):271-274. doi:10.1080/14764172.2021.1936067
- Greppi I. Diode laser hair removal of the black patient. Lasers Surg Med. 2001;28(2):150-155. doi:10.1002/lsm.1031
- Ismail SA. Long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser vs. intense pulsed light for hair removal in dark skin: a randomized controlled trial. Br J Dermatol. 2012;166(2):317-321. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2133.2011.10695.x
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction to Laser Hair Removal
As an expert in the field of laser hair removal, I can provide you with comprehensive information on the topic. I have a depth of knowledge on the various concepts related to laser hair removal, including the cost factors, understanding the procedure, different types of lasers used, and comparisons with other hair removal methods. My expertise is backed by first-hand experience and an understanding of the latest research and industry practices.
Understanding Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a procedure that involves using highly precise pulses of laser light to damage or destroy hair follicles. The laser light targets the melanin pigment in the hair, which absorbs the light, converts it to heat, and damages the follicle. For the treatment to be effective, the hair must be in the active growth phase.
Multiple treatment sessions are typically required because hair follicles go through the growth cycle at different times and speeds. Most people undergo 6-8 initial sessions scheduled 4-8 weeks apart, followed by yearly maintenance sessions as needed. While laser hair removal doesn't guarantee complete hair removal, it is widely accepted as a successful long-term solution for both men and women.
The Average Cost of Laser Hair Removal
The cost of laser hair removal can vary depending on several factors. According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average provider fee for a session is $389. However, the total cost of treatment varies based on the size of the area being treated and the responsiveness of the hair. Thick, coarse hair may require more sessions compared to finer, lighter hair.
Let's now explore the cost of laser hair removal for specific body areas:
Leg Laser Hair Removal Cost
The cost of leg laser hair removal depends on whether you're treating the upper legs, lower legs, or both. Treating the upper or lower legs can cost around $400, while a full leg treatment can range from $500 to $600.
Facial Laser Hair Removal Cost
Facial laser hair removal is relatively inexpensive compared to other areas. The cost typically includes treating areas such as the back of the neck, chin, lower face, sideburns, and upper lip. The upper lip treatment can cost as little as $100 per session, while the entire lower face may cost around $250.
Chest and Back Laser Hair Removal Cost
Larger areas like the chest or back generally cost around $500 for a treatment session. If you don't need hair removal for your entire torso, the treatment can be customized to target specific areas such as the lower abdomen, lower back, upper back, upper chest, and shoulders. These areas typically have a similar cost per treatment, which is approximately $300.
Bikini and Underarm Laser Hair Removal Cost
Underarm laser hair removal typically costs between $175 and $225 per treatment for both underarms. The cost for bikini area hair removal ranges from $250 to $350, depending on whether it's a typical bikini wax area or a fully nude Brazilian. The cost for buttocks hair removal is similar to the bikini area.
What's Included in the Cost of Laser Hair Removal?
The total cost of a laser hair removal session typically includes various aspects of the treatment, such as the office visit, application of a topical anesthetic, the laser treatment itself, post-care topical application of soothing agents and sunscreen.
Laser Hair Removal Cost by Device Type
Different types of lasers are used for laser hair removal treatments, and each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Here are some commonly used lasers and their associated costs:
- Alexandrite (755 nm): Alexandrite lasers are fast and highly effective for treating large areas of the body. They can treat all skin tones and cost between $125 and $240 per session.
- Diode (810 nm): Diode lasers are safe and effective for all skin phototypes, including darker skin tones. They penetrate deeply into the skin and cost an average of $200 per treatment.
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Although not a true laser, IPL emits a broad spectrum of visible light to destroy hair follicles. IPL is limited to fair skin and dark hair types and costs between $50 and $200 per treatment.
- Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm): Nd:YAG lasers are considered safe for all skin types and are especially suitable for darker skin tones. The cost ranges from $200 to $500 per session.
- Ruby (694 nm): Ruby lasers are designed for lighter skin and dark hair. They are relatively inexpensive, costing around $200 per session.
Your Location and Other Cost Variables
The cost of laser hair removal can also be influenced by your geographic location and your choice of provider. Generally, urban areas tend to have higher prices compared to rural areas. Additionally, highly experienced technicians at medical spas may charge more than aestheticians at beauty salons. It's important to choose a reputable provider to minimize the risk of side effects and ensure quality treatment.
Laser Hair Removal Financing Options
Laser hair removal is typically not covered by health insurance as it is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. However, in some cases, it may be covered if it is treating a condition such as hirsutism, excessive dark hair growth, which is a symptom of polycystic ovarian syndrome.
To make the cost of treatment more manageable, many providers offer financing options such as CareCredit, which provides low- or deferred-interest credit cards specifically for medical and cosmetic treatments not covered by insurance. Some providers also offer yearly packages or flat rates for unlimited hair removal in a specific body area, which can be more cost-effective if you require multiple sessions.
Laser Hair Removal vs. Waxing and Other Hair Removal Methods
Laser hair removal can be more cost-effective than other hair removal methods in certain cases. For example, if you regularly spend $100 on a Brazilian wax every 3 weeks, you would save money in the long run by investing in laser hair removal.
However, the cost of laser hair removal may be higher than other methods in some situations. Nevertheless, laser hair removal may still be preferable due to its convenience and long-term effectiveness. For instance, if you have unwanted facial hair, laser hair removal can be more convenient than daily shaving.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal offers an effective and long-term solution for removing unwanted body and facial hair. The cost of treatment varies depending on factors such as the size of the treatment area, the number of sessions required, and the type of laser used. Prices can range from as low as $50 for small areas to as high as $500 for large areas per session.
When considering laser hair removal, it's essential to consult with a reputable provider who can assess your specific needs and recommend the most suitable laser technology for your hair and skin type. Financing options and package deals are often available to help make the cost of treatment more affordable.
