Laser hair removal at a glance
Laser hair removal is a light-based treatment aimed at hair follicles in areas such as the legs, underarms, bikini line, face or back. It is usually given as a series of sessions, and the number varies. The device and its settings depend on your skin tone and hair color, so a consultation comes first. A licensed provider, or trained staff under rules set by New Mexico, looks at your skin and hair and asks about your health and medicines before deciding what is suitable.
Medicines and health history
Some medicines make skin more sensitive to light, which matters for laser hair removal. Examples include some antibiotics, acne medicine taken by mouth, and some herbal supplements such as St John's wort. A provider will also want to know about hormone-related conditions that affect hair growth, a history of keloid scars, cold sores, and pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Bring a full list of medicines and supplements to the consultation. Do not stop any prescribed medicine without talking to the person who prescribed it. The licensed provider weighs it all and decides what is suitable, or whether to wait.
A short list to bring
For a laser hair removal consultation, bring:
- photo ID
- a list of medicines and supplements
- notes on recent sun, tanning or self-tanner
- your hair removal history for each area
- dates of trips or events in the coming months
- your questions
Wear clothing that makes the area easy to show. If you have a tattoo or mole in the area, mention it so the provider can plan around it. A licensed provider decides what is suitable.
Questions about laser hair removal
Does skin tone affect laser hair removal?
Yes. Skin tone and hair color affect which device and settings fit. Some devices are generally used for lighter skin, and others, such as Nd:YAG lasers, are often chosen for deeper skin tones. Ask the provider which device they use and why it suits you.
Can I have laser hair removal while pregnant?
Many providers prefer to wait during pregnancy. Tell the provider at the start of the consultation if you are pregnant, planning to be or breastfeeding, and they will decide what is suitable. Your own doctor or midwife can answer questions about your pregnancy.
What does a session feel like?
People often describe it as a snapping or warm feeling on the skin. Many devices have built-in cooling, and some providers use cooling gel. Ask the provider about comfort options at the consultation, and tell them during a session if something feels wrong.
Ask your questions first. A local provider can contact you by phone, text or email.
Ask a providerMore consultation topics
Ask about your skin
Tell a local provider what you would like to discuss about your skin, and they can talk through treatments with you.
Injectables
Wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers, given by licensed providers where state law allows. Ask a local provider about them.
Body treatments
Each non-surgical body treatment works in its own way. Talk it over with a local provider first.