How to Make Laser Hair Removal Less Painful: A Complete Guide

The thought of having your hair zapped away with laser probably sounds a little painful, but when done correctly, laser hair removal shouldn’t hurt too much. Just like any self-care treatment, it should feel like a bright spot in your day! 

Thanks to modern technology, we’ve found ways to reduce laser hair removal pain. In this guide, we explain how to make laser hair removal more comfortable, with tips for before, during, and after your treatment.

Is Laser Hair Removal Painful?

Laser hair removal isn’t very painful, although the exact sensation can vary from person to person and treatment area to treatment area. 

Most patients describe laser hair removal as feeling like a light sting, like the small snap of a rubber band. The pain rarely lasts beyond each zap, and the treatment time is surprisingly quick. 

After treatment, you may feel warmth, akin to a sunburn, which should fade after several hours. 

Preparing Before Your Appointment

Before your appointment, here are a few things to do that will help you reduce pain levels: 

1. Schedule based on your cycle. Sensitivity to pain may be higher right before your period and lower during ovulation. If possible, try to schedule your appointment for one-two weeks after your period.
2. Ensure your skin is in good condition. Make sure that your skin is healthy and intact before your appointment, and don’t schedule if you’re experiencing any redness, irritation, or open lesions in the treatment area. Avoid using skin-renewing skincare or undergoing peels and similar treatments for one to two weeks before your treatment. Visit our laser hair removal page for complete pre-treatment instructions.
3. Ensure that your skin is at its base color. Avoid any unprotected sun exposure or sunless tanner use for two to four weeks before treatment.
4. Shave the day before. This will give your skin enough time to recover from any post-shaving irritation while ensuring that the laser can still reach the root of your hair follicle.  
5. Nurture your body. Eat well, stay hydrated, and don’t miss out on sleep when you know your laser appointment is coming up. It’s much easier to tolerate discomfort when you’re nourished and well-rested, whereas hunger, dehydration, and lack of sleep are all proven to increase pain perception.  
6. Have a coffee. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to skip your morning coffee before getting laser. Research shows that caffeine can increase pain tolerance levels, especially for women.
7. Nurture your mind. Your mental health also plays a role in pain perception. Research shows that when you’re nervous or afraid of pain, you’ll actually feel it more. In the lead-up to your appointment, meditation can be an excellent mental prep tool. 

Reduce Pain During Laser Hair Removal

Once it’s time for your appointment, these are the best ways to reduce pain during your laser hair removal treatment. 

1. Cold is Your Friend

Nowadays, the best laser hair removal machines have built-in soothing features like cold air or ice tips. Studies show they significantly reduce pain during laser hair removal treatments. All laser hair removal treatments at Sev Skin feature cold air technology so our clients experience minimal to no discomfort.  

2. Communicate With Your Nurse or Laser Tech

During your treatment, you can make laser hair removal less painful by simply speaking up. Your nurse or technician should check in with you throughout the treatment, and adjust intensity settings as needed. 

3. Take an OTC Pain Reliever

If you’re particularly sensitive to pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol). Take your painkiller approximately 45 minutes before your appointment. Make sure to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new medication, and follow dosage instructions carefully. 

4. Bring a Distraction

One of the best ways to limit pain without medication is to distract yourself from it. Chat with your provider, play a phone game, use a stress ball, or anything else that comes to mind. Don’t be shy — your laser specialist will understand if you need a distraction. 

Post-Treatment Care and Possible Side Effects

After laser hair removal, pain and tenderness usually fade within a few hours. A little redness, itchiness, or swelling may remain for a day or two. These aftercare guidelines will help you deal with any pain and prevent unusual or lasting side effects: 

• Use an ice pack to calm the treatment area.  
• Use fragrance-free lotions to soothe the skin, and consider topical cortisone cream if there is itchiness. 
• Laser hair removal makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so protect the treated area by keeping it covered and using sunscreen. 
• Avoid activities that can raise your body temperature, such as using saunas or jacuzzis, intense exercise, or hot yoga. 

Laser Hair Removal With a Soft Touch 

We’ve taken measures to ensure laser hair removal at Sev Skin is as comfortable as possible. All of our machines feature a cryo cooling attachment to help calm the skin, and our expert nurses and providers will make sure your treatment settings are calibrated to your pain tolerance and skin type. 

As a result, thousands of clients report that their experience at Sev Skin is surprisingly comfortable. If you’d like to discover just how tolerable laser hair removal can be, book an appointment at your nearest location — you can try your first session on us.