This article is the third in a series of 7 articles discussing some of the primary actions that should be taken before considering a laser hair removal procedure. This material has come about through countless questions from friends and colleagues of mine as well as days, weeks and even months of research I've personally performed into the matter.

Is laser hair removal painful? Laser hair removal is far less painful than waxing. Different patients report different levels of discomfort during the procedure. For the most part though, the procedure is painless. Some stinging may be involved and some people do experience serious pain. Your skin may turn pink, there can be serious irritation the day of the procedure and it may feel sunburned for a few days after the procedure. Discomfort levels will vary depending on the type of skin, the type and coarseness of hair being removed, as well as the general tolerance for irritation of the patient. However, the procedure is relatively quick, so any pain experienced during the procedure is short-lived. Some describe any pain experienced during the procedure as felling like a rubberband lightly snapping on the skin.

How many laser treatments will I need and how far apart are they scheduled? The human body is a dynamic and complex organism (thank goodness). Body hair is no different. Like many plants and animals, hairs become active and lay dormant for different periods of time throughout the year. So while one hair might be growing today, a hair next to it may be dormant and may not decide to grow for a few more months. For this reason, anywhere from 4-7 sessions may be required to optimize hair removal from a specific area. Sessions may be anywhere from 1 week to 1 month apart. After the initial 4-8 procedures, annual visits are suggested in order to remove any other hairs that lay dormant during this time period.

How long will the procedure take? Relative to many other advanced hair removal techniques, laser hair removal is quick. In many instances, 1 session for an area as large as the back can be performed in 1 hour. Other areas like the upper lip, neck, and feet may be done in far less time. Ultimately it depends on the type of procedure performed, the skill of the doctor, and of course the size of the area the work is being performed. Just ask your doctor during the initial consultation and he should be able to tell you quite confidently. In most cases, laser hair removal procedures can be done during your lunch hour.

Please note that I am not a doctor or a laser hair removal practitioner and this information should not be used as medical advice. If you need medical advice, see a doctor or laser hair removal practitioner.

I hope this has helped you in your quest to take yourself to the next level. Remember, like anything else, if done correctly, laser hair removal can be wonderful. If you don't do your research, it can be a big disappointment.