Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt? What to Expect During Treatment

If you’re considering laser hair removal, one of your first questions is probably: Does it hurt? It’s a fair concern—especially if you’ve had painful experiences with waxing or other hair removal methods. At New You Laser NYC, we believe in transparency, so let’s break down exactly what laser hair removal feels like, how it compares to shaving and waxing, and what we can do to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.

What Does Laser Hair Removal Feel Like?

During laser hair removal, a handheld device emits a concentrated beam of light that targets the pigment in your hair. That light converts to heat, which damages the follicle and prevents future growth. While this sounds intense, the sensation is usually very manageable.

Most clients describe the feeling as:

• A quick snap, similar to the flick of a rubber band against the skin
  
  
• A warm prickling or tingling
  
  
• A slight stinging or zapping sensation, especially in sensitive areas
  
  

The good news? The discomfort is extremely brief. Each laser pulse lasts only a fraction of a second, and the device often includes a cooling mechanism that immediately soothes the skin after each pulse.

At New You Laser NYC, we use advanced laser systems designed with your comfort in mind. Our devices incorporate cooling technology that protects your skin and reduces any heat-related irritation.

Comparing Laser Hair Removal to Waxing and Shaving

If you’re used to waxing or shaving, you’ll be happy to know that laser hair removal is often much easier on the skin in the long run.

Shaving

Shaving is generally painless unless you nick yourself, but the results are short-lived. It also increases the risk of ingrown hairs, razor burn, and irritation—especially on sensitive skin.

Waxing

Waxing involves tearing hair out at the root, which can be quite painful, especially in sensitive areas like the bikini line or underarms. The sting is sharp, and the skin often stays red and tender afterward.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal offers a unique balance: while you may feel a quick snap with each pulse, it’s usually far less painful than waxing—and the results last significantly longer. Plus, no pulling, tearing, or scraping involved.

Areas That Might Feel More Sensitive

Pain tolerance varies from person to person, but certain areas of the body tend to be more sensitive during laser treatments:

• Bikini line / Brazilian area
  
  
• Underarms
  
  
• Upper lip and chin
  
  
• Around the ankles
  
  
• Chest (for men)
  
  

Conversely, areas like the legs, arms, and back tend to be easier for most people, with minimal discomfort.

Our technicians at New You Laser NYC are trained to adjust laser settings for different areas of the body to balance effectiveness with comfort.

Factors That Influence How Laser Hair Removal Feels

Several factors affect how you’ll experience the sensation of laser hair removal:

• Hair thickness: Coarser, darker hair absorbs more laser energy, which may create a stronger snapping sensation.
  
  
• Skin tone: Advanced lasers at New You Laser NYC are designed for all skin types. We adjust settings to keep treatments safe and comfortable regardless of your skin tone.
  
  
• Treatment area: As noted, areas with thinner skin or more nerve endings are naturally more sensitive.
  
  
• Your personal pain tolerance: Everyone’s threshold is different—and that’s okay!
  
  

Numbing and Comfort Options

Your comfort is our priority. There are several ways we can help reduce any discomfort during your session:

Built-in Cooling Technology

Our medical-grade lasers include cooling devices that chill the skin’s surface as the laser pulses. This cooling counteracts heat buildup and significantly reduces pain

Topical numbing creams are not necessary at New You Laser. Our treatments are highly tolerable thanks to the advanced built-in cooling spray in our Candela GMax Pro device. This dynamic cooling system delivers a burst of cold air just before each pulse, ensuring maximum comfort—no numbing cream required.

‍

Smaller Test Areas

If you’re nervous, we can start with a small test patch so you can gauge how the laser feels and build confidence before moving on.

Open Communication

We encourage clients to speak up during treatment. Our team can adjust settings, pace the session, or take short breaks as needed.

What About After the Session?

Immediately after treatment, you might feel a mild sunburn-like sensation. The skin may be slightly red or swollen around the follicles, but this usually resolves within a few hours. Cooling gels like aloe vera can soothe the skin, and we’ll provide clear aftercare instructions to keep you comfortable.

How to Prepare for a More Comfortable Session

Here are some tips to minimize discomfort:

• Shave the area 24 hours before treatment. This helps the laser focus on the follicle rather than surface hair, reducing the chance of heat buildup on the skin.
  
  
• Avoid tanning or sun exposure. Tanned skin can be more sensitive to laser treatments.
  
  
• Stay hydrated and well-rested. It can help with overall skin health and tolerance.
  
  
• Skip caffeine before your session. Caffeine can make you more sensitive to pain.
  
  

Laser Hair Removal: A Small Price for Big Results

While laser hair removal may cause some mild, momentary discomfort, most clients find that the results—long-term smooth skin and freedom from razors and waxing—are well worth it. In fact, many say the sensation becomes easier to tolerate with each session as hair becomes finer and sparser.

Looking for the best laser hair removal in New York City? At New You Laser, we use the industry-leading Candela Gentle Max Pro - Alexindrite and ND Yag with built-in cooling technology, making treatments comfortable and effective—no numbing cream needed. Experience smoother skin at NYC’s top-rated laser destination.

‍

At New You Laser NYC, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to make your experience as pleasant as possible. Our goal is to help you achieve silky, hair-free skin with minimal fuss.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Say goodbye to waxing strips and daily shaving. Book your consultation with New You Laser NYC today, and we’ll create a custom laser hair removal plan that fits your body, your goals, and your comfort level.

‍