And that is totally normal. Some body areas are more sensitive than others. For instance, the bikini line or upper lip might feel more intense than the forearm or calf. The simple reason behind this is that on these areas the skin is much thinner and more prone to sensitivity.
The bikini line, underarms, and facial areas are often reported as the most painful, while legs and arms are usually more comfortable. With proper preparation and aftercare, the procedure is manageable and well worth the long-lasting results.
Most patients don't find laser treatment to be excessively painful, although it may feel a bit uncomfortable. You may experience a sensation during your procedure that's similar to being lightly snapped with a rubber band. Many patients report a feeling of heat during treatment, as well.
Hydration helps minimize discomfort during the treatment and can contribute to a more comfortable experience. Drink water before your session and avoid caffeine and alcohol. Relax in a calm environment and discuss any fears with your technician to reduce pain perception.
Legs – Legs are one of the most commonly treated areas, as many people want to cut down on shaving efforts with laser hair removal. Compared to other parts of the body, the legs are one of the least painful areas for laser hair removal. This is because the skin is thicker and less sensitive than elsewhere.
Using a numbing cream like Emla before undergoing laser hair removal can help reduce the pain. With skin numbing creams like Emla, laser hair removal doesn't have to hurt. The topical treatment numbs the surface of the skin helping you get through painful laser hair removal treatments more comfortably.
While it's common to experience mild discomfort during laser hair removal, taking painkillers before your session is perfectly fine. However, it's best to opt for paracetamol instead of ibuprofen or aspirin, as these can react to the laser light and potentially cause adverse effects.
Relative contraindications include laser hypersensitivity and photosensitizing medications or skin creams, although there are many that react with the UV spectrum, very few react with infrared. Some autoimmune disorders and severe Lupus may cause a hypersensitivity to laser therapy.
The treatment is relatively painless compared to other hair removal methods and is often described as a feeling similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. The sensation can vary depending on the individual's pain threshold and the area being treated.
The most common cause of laser-induced tissue damage is thermal in nature, where the tissue proteins are denatured due to the temperature rise following absorption of laser energy.
All healing begins with a slight amount of mild inflammation. This type of pain is particularly likely to arise when the health problems are chronic in nature and the nerves are highly sensitized. It usually subsides after a few days but can, in rare cases, may last longer.
Avoid NSAIDs for Optimal Results
NSAIDs impact the blood in a way that increases your risk of bleeding, bruising, and increased sensitivity. If you struggle with sensitivity during procedures like Brazillian laser hair removal, opt for a medication such as Tylenol.
Most clients will require 6-8 sessions to achieve optimal results from laser hair removal, though the exact number can vary depending on factors like hair type, skin tone, and the treatment area.
Other factors that may impact your pain levels during laser:
Those with conditions like dermatitis or eczema might find their skin is more reactive to treatments. Some medications can increase sensitivity to light, making the laser treatment feel more intense.
BLT is known for being the most powerful numbing cream used for laser treatments. While numbing creams can be effective at reducing discomfort, it's important to note that they don't just block pain—they block all sensations, including the ability to feel heat.
To make laser hair removal more comfortable, use numbing creams, practice breath control, consider pain management options, and post-session, wear loose clothing, use ice packs, and avoid intense exercise.
Skin and Hair Type: Darker, coarser hair absorbs more laser energy, which can intensify the sensation. Equipment Used: Modern laser systems often include cooling technology or numbing features to reduce discomfort.
The YAG laser operates at a lower intensity level than diode lasers, making it less harmful to the skin. Each treatment, though, can result in less hair being removed. As a result, YAG laser treatments normally take ten sessions, but diode laser treatments often only need six sessions to provide the required outcomes.
During the first few treatments, you'll likely experience a slight stinging sensation with each laser pulse. You may also find it to be slightly more intense in sensitive areas such as the underarms or bikini line. But even then, the sensation is minimal! Our patients often compare it to the feeling of tiny pinpricks.
Numbing creams offer safe topical pain relief when chosen and used carefully for laser hair removal. Numbing creams can significantly improve comfort during laser hair removal treatments. Look for proven topical anesthetics like lidocaine and properly apply to treatment areas around 30 minutes before your session.
A common method patients use is numbing creams before their laser tattoo removal appointment to help cool the skin. Creams that include benzocaine or lidocaine as active ingredients can help numb the skin and create a less painful treatment, but there are mixed reviews on its effectiveness.
Lidocaine is used as a local anesthetic to help keep you from feeling pain caused by many procedures. This medication is also used to help treat pain from scrapes, insect bites, and minor burns. Here at CVS Pharmacy®, you can find a wide range of lidocaine products, from skin cream to spray to patches.