All About Armpit Laser Hair Removal

If you’re seeking a longer-lasting alternative to frequent shaving or waxing for underarm hair, you might be considering armpit laser hair removal. This technique works by damaging hair follicles for weeks at a time so they can’t generate new hairs.

Before scheduling a laser hair removal session, it’s important to be aware of both the advantages and the potential drawbacks of this cosmetic treatment.

Keep in mind that, while laser hair removal can produce extended periods of reduced hair growth, it often isn’t permanent and can be uncomfortable for some people.

Advantages of underarm laser hair removal

Unlike shaving or waxing, laser hair removal impairs hair follicles so they’re less likely to produce new growth. That translates to fewer and less noticeable hairs for a longer duration.

Possible perks of this treatment include:

• reduced number of underarm hairs
• regrown hairs that are paler in color
• softer, less coarse hair texture
• overall slower rate of hair regrowth

When will you see results?

You may observe finer or fewer hairs after a laser session. Generally, it can take three to four treatments to reach your preferred underarm outcome because hairs are treated at different stages of growth.

Although laser hair removal is often promoted as “permanent,” maintenance treatments are typically necessary to preserve smooth underarms.

Follow-up sessions may be needed every 6 to 12 months, or when hair begins to return.

What happens during a permanent armpit hair removal session

An armpit laser hair removal procedure usually follows these steps:

1. First, the clinician will cleanse the area and may apply a mild numbing cream if appropriate. You’ll receive protective eyewear for the duration of the session.
2. Next, the clinician will position a handpiece that emits a focused light over the armpit. The light heats the hair follicles, damaging them so they’re less able to produce new hairs. The entire treatment can often be completed in just a few minutes.
3. To reduce discomfort and other side effects, a cooling gel or spray may be applied to the underarm area.

You can go home the same day. Your clinician might suggest using cool compresses or ice packs on the armpits as needed. If significant swelling occurs, a topical steroid cream may be prescribed.

Side effects and precautions

To get the best results from armpit laser hair removal, it’s advisable to see a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. This can lower the risk of potential side effects from laser treatment, such as:

• redness or irritation
• discomfort
• blistering
• swelling
• scarring (uncommon)

Like other cosmetic procedures (for example, chemical peels), laser hair removal can increase sun sensitivity. While underarms are not typically sun-exposed, it’s still wise to use sun protection when appropriate.

Temporary changes in skin pigmentation are another potential issue to discuss with your dermatologist. This can appear as lighter spots on darker skin, or darker spots on lighter skin.

Overall, darker skin tones are more susceptible to pigment alterations.

Is underarm laser hair removal painful?

Because armpit skin is thinner, this area can be more sensitive during laser hair removal than other parts of the body.

Although the sensation is reported to last only a few seconds per pulse, you should consider your pain tolerance before booking.

To reduce discomfort, your clinician may apply a small amount of topical anesthetic before the procedure. However, due to possible long-term risks, these products should be used sparingly and only when necessary.

Your provider may also advise applying cold packs to the armpits after treatment to soothe any lingering pain.

Which laser type is best for underarm hair?

Several laser types can be used for hair removal. The clinician will choose the most suitable option based on:

• safety and effectiveness on the underarm area
• hair thickness
• skin tone
• hair color

It’s crucial to work with someone experienced in using lasers across different skin tones.

Darker skin often requires less intense systems, such as diode lasers, to reduce the risk of pigment changes. Lighter skin may be treated effectively with ruby or alexandrite lasers.

Cost of armpit laser hair removal

In 2019, the typical cost of a single laser hair removal session averaged $287.

Bear in mind that your actual expense will vary by location and clinician. Multiple sessions spaced over weeks are often required to attain the desired results.

Since this is a cosmetic procedure, armpit laser hair removal is generally not covered by health insurance. You might lower your overall cost with payment plans, promotional offers from your provider, or financing.

Talk with your clinician about the full expected fees before committing to treatment.

How to choose a qualified professional

Laser hair removal is commonly performed by board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons.

Many practitioners provide complimentary consultations, so you may want to consult more than one until you find the right match.

During the consultation, ask about the clinician’s experience, credentials, and examples of prior work. This is also an opportunity to discuss worries about side effects and the outcomes you expect.

Your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist, or you can search for qualified providers through these organizations:

• American Academy of Dermatology Association
• American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
• American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Other armpit hair removal options

Laser hair removal for the underarms can offer longer-lasting outcomes, but the potential discomfort, side effects, and cost may not suit everyone.

You might consider alternative underarm hair removal methods, such as:

• Waxing. Waxing pulls hairs and roots out using heated wax and strips. Results last longer than shaving, but you may experience similar short-term effects like pain, swelling, and redness.
• Wet shaving. The simplest method is wet shaving. Using shaving cream reduces the chance of razor burn and nicks. Though cheap, shaving often must be repeated frequently to maintain smooth underarms.
• Electrolysis. Like laser treatment, electrolysis damages hair follicles to limit regrowth but uses radiofrequency currents. It’s typically painless but is often the most costly option and can cause irritation and swelling.
• Depilatory creams.Depilatory creams chemically dissolve hairs at the skin surface after application and rinsing. While convenient, these formulas can burn or blister sensitive underarm skin, so many people avoid them in that area.

If you’re also interested in natural or preparatory care, look into armpit detox to help reduce irritation and support skin health before or after hair removal treatments.

Bottom line

Armpit laser hair removal offers longer-lasting reduction in hair compared with many at-home methods because it temporarily impairs hair follicles. However, achieving your goals usually requires multiple sessions and a higher overall cost than waxing or shaving.

If you’re considering armpit laser hair removal, see a board-certified professional who can address questions about risks and help determine if the treatment is suitable for you.