---
title: "Laser Hair Removal"
---
## Smooth skin, without the daily routine
Shaving lasts a day. Waxing lasts a few weeks. Laser hair removal works on the follicle itself, and most people see no hair on the treated skin for several months or even years. [1] When a little grows back, it's usually finer and lighter.
It's a quick, practical way to take [unwanted hair](/concerns/unwanted-hair/) off your to-do list, with almost no downtime. [1]
### Popular areas
- Upper lip, chin and face
- Underarms
- Bikini area
- Legs
- Back, chest and shoulders
- Neck
- 10 to 25% The reduction in hair you can expect after your very first treatment. [1]
## Your laser hair removal plan
1. Your consultation We look at your skin tone and hair color, talk through the areas you want treated, and set your plan.
2. Treatment The laser's light is drawn to the pigment in the hair and travels down to the follicle. Each pulse covers a small area, and a cooling burst of air or spray keeps your skin comfortable.
3. A series of visits Hair grows in cycles, and the laser works best on hair in its active growth stage. That's why it takes a series of visits, spaced weeks apart, to catch every follicle.
4. Upkeep Once you've finished your series, an occasional maintenance visit keeps the area smooth. [1]
- 2 to 6 The number of treatments most people need. [1]
## Two wavelengths, one laser
We use the GentleMax Pro, which combines two laser wavelengths in one device: a 755 nm Alexandrite laser and a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser. Having both lets your provider match the settings to your skin tone and hair, so more people can be treated safely and effectively.
What it means for youTwo wavelengthsSettings matched to your skin tone and hairBuilt-in coolingMore comfortable pulsesLarge treatment area per pulseQuicker visits for legs and backs
Your consultation confirms which setting suits you. If laser isn't the best choice for your hair color, you'll hear that up front.
## Where laser hair removal works best
AreaWhat changesFaceSmoother upper lip and chin. On a woman's face, hormones mean upkeep visits are often needed. [2]UnderarmsNo more daily shaving or stubbleBikini areaFewer ingrown hairs and less irritationLegsSmooth legs through every seasonBack, chest and shouldersLess hair across larger areasNeckA cleaner neckline
## Real results from patients
- No downtime Most people go straight back to their day after treatment. [1]
The Paz difference
## A laser practice inside a dermatology practice
Great laser results start with understanding your skin. Here, your plan starts with a careful look at your skin tone, your hair and any medicines you take, so the settings fit you and your skin stays comfortable from the first pulse to the last.
And if something else would serve you better, you'll hear about it at your [free consultation](/cosmetic/consultation/).
## Is laser hair removal right for you?
### You're likely a good fit if you:
- Have dark hair; laser works best on dark hair and lighter skin [1]
- Are tired of shaving, waxing or ingrown hairs
- Can keep the area out of the sun during your series
- Are happy to come back for a series of visits
### Tell us before your appointment if you:
- Have taken isotretinoin for acne, or take any other medicine, including aspirin [3]
- Get cold sores, if you're treating near the mouth
- Have a tan, or have recently used a self-tanner
- Are pregnant
Blond, red, gray and white hair has little pigment for the laser to find, so it usually responds poorly. Your consultation will tell you where you stand.
## Before and after your visits
### Before
- Don't tan, outdoors or indoors [3]
- Skip self-tanners [3]
- Wear broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, every day [3]
- Shave the area as instructed, but don't pluck or wax, so the root is there for the laser
### After
- Keep the treated skin out of direct sun [1]
- No tanning beds or sun lamps [1]
- Use a cool compress if the area feels warm
Discomfort, swelling and redness are the common side effects, and they usually last 1 to 3 days. [1] Rarely, blistering, cold sore outbreaks, infection, scarring, or lightening or darkening of the skin can occur. [1] Call us if you notice any of these.
## Concerns treated
This is the most common concern laser hair removal treats here. Pick it to see how we can help.
## What treatment costs
Cost depends on the size of the area and how many visits you need. Your consultation is free, and you'll know your plan and its cost before anything happens. You'll find our [current offers](/promotions/) on their own page.
Our laserGentleMax Pro (755 nm and 1064 nm)TreatmentsUsually 2 to 6 [1]First visit10 to 25% less hair [1]DowntimeGenerally none [1]WhereOur Fresno and Visalia offices
## Laser hair removal questions, answered
**Q: Is laser hair removal permanent?**
On most areas of the body, yes. On a woman's face, hormones mean hair can return, so upkeep visits help. [2]
**Q: How many treatments will I need?**
Most people need 2 to 6, [1] spaced weeks apart. Your plan depends on the area and your hair.
**Q: Does it hurt?**
Most people compare it to a quick snap of a rubber band. Built-in cooling keeps each pulse comfortable.
**Q: Can I shave between visits?**
Yes. Shaving is fine. Skip plucking and waxing, which remove the root the laser needs.
**Q: Does it work on darker skin?**
Laser works best on light skin and dark hair. [1] With two wavelengths, our laser can be set for a wider range of skin tones. Your consultation confirms what's safe for you.
**Q: Is there downtime?**
Generally no. [1] Some redness and swelling can last a day or so.
## References
[Laser hair removal: FAQs](https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/hair-removal/laser-hair-removal-faqs)
[Laser hair removal: Overview](https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/hair-removal/laser-hair-removal-overview)
[Laser hair removal: Preparation](https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/hair-removal/laser-hair-removal-preparation)
Content on this page is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Whether laser hair removal suits you depends on your skin, your hair and your consultation. Results vary from person to person, and maintenance treatments may be needed. Common side effects include discomfort, swelling and redness. Rare risks include blistering, cold sore outbreaks, infection, scarring and changes in skin color. Individual results may vary.
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