How Does Laser Hair Removal Work [Process & Technology Used]

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work? Key Takeaways

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• Laser hair removal works by targeting pigment in the hair follicle
• Results are long-lasting, but not permanent
• Shaving before your appointment, avoiding sun exposure, and skipping harsh products help your skin respond better to laser hair removal

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If you’re tired of razors and waxing strips, chances are you’ve already heard about laser hair removal.

Still, there’s a lot of confusion around how it actually works.

In fact, a 2025 study found that about one in four people mistakenly believe laser hair removal gives off harmful radiation, a common myth.

So how does laser hair removal actually work? This guide breaks it down.

You’ll also walk away knowing:

• How laser hair removal targets and treats hair

• The advanced laser technology we use at Laser by Aleya

• Common myths (and the truth behind them)

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work Exactly?

Laser hair removal works by using light to target the melanin in your hair, heating and damaging the follicle to slow future growth.

1. The laser sends heat into each hair follicle, where your hair grows from.

2. The pigment in the hair absorbs the light, which safely damages the follicle.

3. Over time, this damage slows down or completely stops new hair from growing.

Important to remember: it works best on darker hair, since the laser needs pigment to lock onto.

That’s why very light blonde, gray, or red hair doesn’t always respond as well.

Because hair grows in cycles, you’ll need about six to eight sessions to catch each follicle at the right time.

What Does Laser Hair Removal Do to Your Hair Follicles?

Laser hair removal heats and damages the hair follicle, slowing or stopping it from growing new hair.

After a few sessions, many follicles stop working altogether, leading to smoother skin and less hair regrowth.

The goal isn’t to yank the hair out (like waxing does); it’s to shut down the growth process from the inside out.

How Well Does Laser Hair Removal Work on Different Skin and Hair Types?

Laser hair removal works best on light skin with dark hair, since the laser targets melanin.

The more melanin, the easier it is for the laser to find and disable the follicle.

But that doesn’t mean it won’t work for other combinations.

• Darker skin tones: More advanced lasers like Nd:YAG are safer and more effective because they go deeper into the skin without targeting surface pigment. This reduces the risk of burns or discoloration.

• Lighter hair (including blonde, gray, and red): These can be tougher to treat since they lack melanin. Some people still see results, but it might take more sessions, or electrolysis might be a better fit.

• Medium skin tones or coarse hair: Medium skin tones with strong hair texture usually respond well, especially with the right laser, like a diode or Alexandrite.

Does Laser Hair Removal Actually Work Long-Term?

Laser hair removal offers long-lasting results, but it’s not considered truly permanent like electrolysis.

Most people enjoy smooth skin for months or even years, and if hair does come back, it’s usually finer and lighter.

Results can vary depending on your hair growth cycle, skin tone, hair color, and how precise the treatment is.

What To Expect Before, During, and After Treatment

If you’ve never had laser hair removal before, it can be super helpful to know what the process is actually like to get rid of any nerves, set realistic expectations, and feel fully prepared.

Let’s go over what to expect at each stage:

Before Your Appointment

A little prep can go a long way, as it helps you get better results and makes the whole experience more comfortable.

• Shave the area 24 hours before your session. Don’t wax or pluck because the laser needs the root of the hair to do its job.

• Try to stay out of the sun for about two weeks. Your skin responds better when it isn’t tanned and it helps prevent irritation.

• Skip harsh skincare products (like retinoids or acids) a few days before, especially on your face, as they can make the skin more sensitive and prone to irritation.

• Stay hydrated and try skipping your morning coffee; caffeine can make you feel a little more jittery or sensitive during treatment.

During Your Session

Once you’re all set, this is where the magic starts:

• You’ll wear protective goggles, and depending on the laser, the laser specialist might apply cooling gel. 

• The laser pulses feel like a quick snap, similar to the flick of a rubber band, and most people find the sensation easy to tolerate. 

• Tiny spots like the underarms or upper lip take only a few minutes. Bigger areas, such as the legs or back, need more time, but it’s still faster and easier than waxing.

After Your Appointment

A little TLC post-treatment helps your skin recover quickly:

• Use a gentle moisturizer or apply some aloe vera to soothe the area.

• It’s totally normal to have some redness or slight swelling, like a mild sunburn, which usually fades within a day or two.

• Avoid hot showers, saunas, and sweaty workouts for one to two days to give your skin a chance to calm down.

• Keep the treated area out of the sun and don’t skip the SPF, especially if you’re treating spots like your face or arms.

What Kind of Laser Does Aleya Use?

At Laser by Aleya, we use the Lumenis Diode LightSheer, a trusted, clinically proven diode laser that’s all about precision and comfort.

It combines high energy with adjustable settings, built-in cooling, and gentle compression, making treatments both efficient and manageable.

One of its biggest advantages is the large 22 x 35 mm spot size, which allows for deeper penetration and faster treatment times.

This is perfect for larger areas like the legs, back, or anywhere you want smooth skin.

Laser Hair Removal Prices at Laser by Aleya

Wondering what it’ll cost? Here’s the breakdown for each laser session at Laser by Aleya:

Treatment Area	Price per Session
Upper Lip	$30
Half Face	$60
Full Face	$120
Underarms	$55
Full Arms	$175
Half Arms	$90
Full Legs	$175
Half Legs	$100
Full Back	$100
Half Back	$60
Full Chest	$100
Happy Trail	$45
Backside (for women)	$100
Brazilian (for women)	$75
Bikini (for women)	$55
Full Body	$500

Find Expert Laser Hair Removal in Great Neck, NY

At Laser by Aleya, you’re not just getting laser hair removal, you’re getting expert care tailored to your goals.

Aleya utilizes advanced laser technology that’s safe, effective, and works on most skin tones and hair types.

Each session is customized to give you better results with less discomfort and fewer appointments.

Clients trust our expertise, appreciate our meticulous attention to detail, and leave every visit feeling more confident.

So, if you’re in the Great Neck area, Aleya’s the one locals trust.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work: FAQs

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a popular way to get rid of unwanted hair, without the hassle of shaving or waxing.

It uses targeted light energy to heat and disable hair follicles, which helps stop the hair from growing back over time.

Because it’s noninvasive, there are no cuts or needles involved. Most people choose it for areas like:

• The face (especially the upper lip or chin)

• Underarms

• Bikini line

• Back

• Legs

If you’re looking for a long-term solution to smooth, hair-free skin, laser hair removal is one of the safest and most effective options out there.

Should you shave before laser hair removal?

Yes, it’s ideal to shave the treatment area one to two days before your appointment.

Are laser burns possible?

Yes, laser burns can happen, but only if the settings are too high, the skin is tanned, there’s product left on the area, the hair wasn’t shaved, or the wrong type of laser is used for your skin tone.

Does laser hair removal cause cancer?

No, laser hair removal uses low-energy light that doesn’t reach or affect your DNA, so there’s no cancer risk.

What are the common (and rare) side effects of laser hair removal?

Most people just notice a bit of redness or slight changes in skin tone, which is totally normal and usually gone within a day or two!

Rarely, you might see some scabbing, crusting, or subtle texture changes.

Can you get laser hair removal while you’re pregnant?

If you’re trying to conceive or are already pregnant, it’s best to skip laser treatments until after your pregnancy.

What about laser hair removal for breastfeeding moms?

Yes, it’s generally safe for breastfeeding moms.

The laser only targets hair follicles at the surface.

That means it doesn’t reach deep tissue, enter your bloodstream, or affect your milk supply.

Are there laser hair removal prices for students?

At Laser by Aleya, we offer special pricing just for students because smooth skin shouldn’t break the bank.

• Brazilian: $55 (regularly $75)

• Bikini line: $40 (regularly $55)

• Full legs: $125 (regularly $175)

• Lower legs: $75 (regularly $100)

• Underarms: $35 (regularly $55)

• Lower arms: $60 (regularly $90)