Noninvasive laser hair removal treatment uses gentle beams of light to get rid of hair. The hair’s melanin (the part that gives hair its color) absorbs the light, which turns into heat. The heat damages the follicle (but not the surrounding skin or tissue) and prevents it from producing more hair.

Laser hair removal can treat hair anywhere on the face or body. Women often treat the bikini area, chin, upper lip, and legs. Men can safely eliminate unwanted hair from places such as their chests, shoulders and backs.

How many sessions are needed?

For each treatment area, it is typically recommended 3 to 7 sessions per body area. Each session is about 4 to 5 weeks apart.

Can anyone with dark, light or white hair be treated?

Each person responds differently to laser hair removal. Some may require more treatments than others. And sometimes laser hair removal can’t eliminate hair completely. If some hair does grow back, it’s usually thinner and finer than before the treatment. Also, people with dark hair are considered the best candidates. Blonde, gray, and strawberry-blonde hair may not absorb the laser light as much as someone with darker hair because the light beams are absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft and follicle.