Talk to a provider about laser hair removal

Who does laser hair removal

Rules on who may operate a hair removal laser differ by state. In some states only physicians, nurses or physician assistants may use them. In others, trained technicians may work under a supervising physician. California sets its own rules.

Whoever does it, the work follows the same outline: a consultation, a check of skin tone and hair color to choose a device, a test patch in some cases, and then a series of sessions spaced weeks apart. Ask who will run your sessions, what training they have and who supervises them. A licensed provider decides what is suitable for you.

How a provider plans the series

Laser hair removal is usually planned as a series of sessions, and the number varies. When a provider builds a plan, they think about the area, the thickness and color of the hair, your skin tone, hormone-related factors, and how your skin handles the first session.

They also consider timing. Sessions are spaced weeks apart, and some people plan around summer to keep sun exposure low. Ask the provider how they decide on spacing, what happens if you miss a session, and whether touch-up visits are common later. A licensed provider sets the plan with you.

Planning sessions around your calendar

Laser hair removal is usually a series of sessions spaced weeks apart, and the number varies. Before the consultation, look ahead at your calendar. Note beach trips, sunny vacations and events where you would rather not have a fresh session.

Many providers ask you to keep sun exposure low during a series, so the time of year can matter. Bring your dates, and ask the provider how they would space sessions around them. They can then decide what is suitable and when to start.

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