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. Iowa 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.

Matching the device to your skin and hair

Device choice is one of the biggest decisions in laser hair removal. Lasers work at different wavelengths, and each suits some combinations of skin tone and hair color more than others. Using the wrong one for deeper skin tones can raise the risk of burns or changes in skin color.

Ask the provider which device they use and why it suits you. Ask whether they have more than one type, and how they choose settings. Some providers do a test patch first. If you have very light hair, ask plainly whether laser is an option at all, since many devices have trouble with it. A licensed provider decides what is suitable.

Questions to have ready

Write these down before a laser consultation so you do not forget them in the room:

• Which device would you use for my skin and hair?
• Who will run the sessions?
• How many sessions do people usually have for this area?
• How far apart are sessions spaced?
• How is the cost of a series worked out?
• What should I do ahead of each session, and afterward?

Cost is set by each provider, so ask at the consultation. More ideas are on the questions to ask page.

Questions about laser hair removal

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