Factors That Influence Armpit Laser Hair Removal Costs
At Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness, laser hair removal is one of our most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.
Under the expert guidance of Dr. Soni, we have helped countless patients achieve smooth, stubble-free underarms through our precise Alexandrite or ND:YAG lasers. But before you book your first treatment, you probably want to know – how much is laser hair removal for armpits?
In this detailed guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about laser hair removal costs for your underarms. We’ll cover factors like the number of treatments needed, your hair/skin type, the laser technology used, and even whether insurance covers any of the costs.
Laser Hair Removal Costs
Laser hair removal is most affordable when treating small areas like the armpits. National averages from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons put the typical cost of underarm laser hair removal between $200 and $400 per session.
Most patients require 4-6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal long-term results. This means you can expect to invest anywhere from $800 to $2,400 if treating both underarms.
What impacts the costs per session? Key factors include:
- Your hair and skin color – lasers work best on coarse, dark hair with fair skin. Treating dark skin or fine hair takes more expertise and time.
- Size of the treatment area – small spots like armpits cost less than large areas.
- Number of sessions needed – typically 4-6 for armpits.
- The clinic/doctor you choose – prices vary based on their experience and technologies.
- Your city/state – you’ll pay less for procedures in less expensive areas.
How Much Does Laser Hair Removal for Armpits Cost?
The average cost of laser hair removal for the armpits in 2023 ranges from $150 to $225 per treatment according to multiple sources.
Up to $2,000 total for a full course of laser hair removal treatments for the underarms. The total number of treatments needed can vary per individual.
Now let’s explore these variables in more detail to help estimate your personal laser armpit hair removal costs.
Hair and Skin Type Considerations
Our advanced lasers target the pigment in hair follicles to damage them and inhibit regrowth. They are attracted to dark colors and work best on coarser hair. Light, fine hair has low pigment levels for lasers to interact with.
Patients with fair skin and thick, dark underarm hair will see the fastest results with the fewest sessions required. Those with dark skin or white/blonde/gray hair may require alternative laser wavelengths and more treatments to achieve hair reduction.
Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness offers both Alexandrite and ND:YAG lasers to customize treatments for every skin and hair color.
During your consultation, we will evaluate your individual hair growth patterns, skin tone, and goals to recommend a specialized laser hair removal plan. With his expertise in treating all skin types, you can trust you’ll receive safe, comfortable treatments for smooth underarms.
Treatment Area Size
A major factor in laser hair removal pricing is the size of the treatment area. Underarms are relatively small, contained areas compared to legs, backs, and other common sites. Their petite size makes them one of the more affordable sites for laser hair removal.
Larger body zones require more time, energy output, and sessions to cover the entire area effectively. Full legs or backs can cost thousands for a complete treatment series. For just your armpits, you’ll pay a fraction of these amounts.
Our hair removal lasers at Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness use concentrated beams for customized coverage of even small spots like the underarms. Dr. Soni will tailor the treatments based on your unique hair growth patterns to ensure every follicle is addressed.
Number of Sessions Required
Most patients need 4-6 laser sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart to reach up to 90% long-term hair reduction in their underarms. More sessions give the disrupted follicles time to shed and prevent new hairs from forming. Too few treatments won’t provide the lasting results you want.
Your technician will schedule follow-ups based on your hair’s regrowth between appointments. Maintenance sessions every 6-12 months are often needed in the years following your initial treatment series to catch stray regrowth.
When calculating overall costs, be sure to account for the entire multi-session process, not just a single appointment. Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness offers discounted bundled pricing to provide savings for your complete underarm laser hair removal needs.
Choice of Clinic/Doctor
Like any cosmetic treatment, laser hair removal costs can vary dramatically depending on where you have it done. Luxury medi-spas and plastic surgery centers typically charge higher prices than community clinics. However, they also tend to invest in the latest technologies and extensive staff training that supports superior results.
It’s essential to choose an experienced doctor like Dr. Soni for your laser hair removal over a non-physician technician. As a board-certified expert in minimally invasive procedures, he understands how to safely operate the laser to avoid complications like burns or scarring. He strives to make treatments as comfortable as possible using integrated cooling systems.
At Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness, our dedication to clinical excellence and patient satisfaction means our laser offerings are priced fairly. Yet we never cut corners on care standards or technology investments. When you choose us for your armpit hair removal, you get an optimal balance of reasonable pricing and premier results.
Geographic Location
Like all cosmetic treatments, laser hair removal costs more in major metro areas and less in suburban or rural locations. For example, the same procedure may be 25-50% higher in Los Angeles or New York City compared to smaller nearby cities.
When researching providers in your area, look for those that offer specials or bundles to maximize value. Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness provides free consultations to give transparency into expected costs. We also offer package pricing for multi-session treatments to optimize the investment required for your smooth armpits goal.
Does Insurance Cover Laser Hair Removal Costs?
Because it is an elective cosmetic treatment, most insurance plans do not cover laser hair removal. There are a few rare exceptions:
- Hormone-related excess hair growth like PCOS may qualify if your doctor deems it medically necessary. Always check with your insurer if hair growth impacts your physical or emotional health.
- Certain transgender-related procedures may be covered depending on your insurer and plan.
- If repeated shaving causes painful bumps and rashes, laser may be covered to prevent skin infections and problems.
Many providers like Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness offer financing options to offset out-of-pocket costs. Be wary of practices advertising “free” laser hair removal, as this often means you’ll pay extra costs for “fees” and tips per session.
We will help you determine if your unique situation may warrant pursuing insurance coverage. If not, we have accessible payment programs and discounted packages available to those who pay in full upfront.
What to Expect During Laser Hair Removal for Armpits
Now that you know what to budget, let’s discuss the procedure itself. Here’s an overview of how we safely perform laser underarm hair removal at Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness:
Before the Treatment
- No shaving for 4-6 weeks beforehand allows hairs to grow into an active growth phase for the laser to target.
- Avoid sun exposure which can increase skin sensitivity. Use SPF 30+ if needed.
- Discontinue exfoliating products like retinoids that thin the skin a few days before.
- Avoid caffeinated drinks near the appointment time, as they can amplify discomfort.
- Arrive with cleanly washed armpits – no lotions, deodorant, powder or oils.
During the Procedure
- You’ll wear safety eye shields to protect your vision from the laser light bursts.
- The technician will first trim any long hairs in the treatment area.
- They apply a transparent gel to glide the laser wand smoothly across your underarm skin.
- As the laser pulses to destroy hair follicles, you may feel mild pinching, stinging or warmth.
- The technician adjusts settings and utilizes a cooling attachment for your comfort.
- Most armpit sessions take 15-20 minutes to carefully treat all areas of hair growth.
After Your Treatment
- Use a soothing aloe gel and avoid hot showers for 24 hours which can irritate skin.
- Avoid rigorous exercise for 1-2 days that causes excessive sweating.
- Any redness should fade within a few hours. Apply a cold compress if swelling occurs.
- Schedule your next session in 4-6 weeks for the next phase of follicular disruption.
- Between visits, shed hairs will push their way out. Do not tweeze or wax them.
- You may shave carefully in between sessions if desired once any irritation resolves.
You’ll meet with Dr. Soni after your initial couple laser sessions to evaluate your progress and make any needed adjustments to your treatment plan. Most patients enjoy 90% or better long-term reduction in armpit hair growth after a complete series.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal for Underarms
Beyond the convenience of stubble-free armpits, laser hair removal offers numerous advantages over temporary methods like shaving and waxing.
Permanent Hair Reduction
With repeated treatments, laser hair removal provides up to 90% permanent reduction in underarm hair growth. Each session damages and shrinks follicles to prevent re-growth. While not every hair follicle is fully destroyed, most will remain dormant for long periods after a complete treatment regime.
Temporary removal methods like shaving, waxing and depilatories only eliminate already visible hair above the skin. The follicle remains intact below the surface ready to sprout again within days or weeks as the hair cycle reactivates.
Laser technology combined with Dr. Soni’s expertise provides far more lasting disruption of the actual root structures that produce hair. For most patients, armpit hair regrowth eventually slows to just an occasional stray that’s easy to treat.
Fewer Ingrown Hairs and Bumps
When you shave your underarms, the blunt cut hair tips can curl back under the skin and become trapped. This triggers inflammation and bumps known as razor burn.
The microscopic wounds caused by shaving also raise your risk of folliculitis – infection of the hair follicles. Repeated friction from shaving irritates these vulnerable structures.
Laser precisely targets the follicle below the skin without creating an entryway for bacteria. Ingrown hairs occur less frequently. For patients prone to severe shaving bumps and rashes, laser hair removal provides a much gentler option.
Soft, Smooth Skin
Shaving and waxing routinely strip away protective oils and cells from the surface of your skin. This can leave underarms feeling dry and raw. Bikini waxes especially tend to cause irritation, redness and sensitivity.
Laser radiation only interacts with pigment in the hair follicles, not the surrounding skin. When performed properly, it leaves the armpit tissue undamaged and intact without thinning or abrasion. Your skin retains its supple texture.
Time and Money Savings
Shaving your armpits every couple days or getting them waxed monthly demands constant upkeep – not to mention expense on razors and waxing trips over a lifetime. Laser permanently reduces growth to eliminate this maintenance.
Although laser has higher upfront costs, it pays off in the long run by freeing up your time and saving money. At Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness, our bundled pricing lowers the per-session costs to provide serious value from your investment.
Boosts Confidence
Silky smooth armpits can make you feel confident in sleeveless tops and dresses without worrying about stubble. Laser hair removal is also a popular choice before major events like weddings or vacations to look and feel your best.
Free yourself from constant shaving or waxing with our lasting laser treatments. We strive to help every patient look their best while feeling comfortable and confident.
Who is a Good Candidate for Laser Underarm Hair Removal?
To set realistic expectations, here are factors that make you an ideal candidate for safe, successful laser armpit hair removal:
- Fair to olive skin tones – Lasers work optimally on darker coarser hairs with less melanin in the surrounding skin. Those with dark brown/black hair and medium to lighter skin achieve the best results. We can still customize treatments for darker complexions using advanced laser wavelengths.
- Coarse, thick hair – Fine, light colored hair has low melanin levels for lasers to target which reduces effectiveness. Medium to thick dark armpit hair is easiest to permanently disable.
- Realistic expectations – Laser hair removal reduces but usually doesn’t fully eliminate hair growth. Being prepared for the possibility of occasional touch-ups leads to greater satisfaction.
- Time and budget – The multi-session process spans months to achieve desired results. Having the time and budget for 4-6 treatments is ideal. Bundled pricing makes this more affordable.
- No underlying conditions – Skin disorders like eczema or infections may require clearance before laser treatments. Any cases would be evaluated during your consultation.
- No isotretinoin use – Medications like Accutane can thin the skin and impair healing. A 6 month waiting period is recommended after stopping usage.
With Dr. Soni’s discerning eye for candidacy, you can feel confident in achieving your goals for silky smooth underarms. Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness welcomes all skin tones and hair types. Schedule a free consultation today to determine if laser is right for you!
Preparing for Your Laser Underarm Hair Removal Treatments
To ensure you heal quickly and get the best results from your investment, be sure to:
- Avoid sun – Tanning can increase sensitivity risks. Use SPF 30+ sunscreen on the underarms when outdoors prior to treatments.
- Stop waxing/plucking/tweezing – Let hairs grow out 4-6 weeks before your first session and in between appointments. No plucking or waxing!
- Avoid irritants – Stop using deodorants, exfoliants, or hair removal creams on underarms a few days before laser sessions to avoid stinging.
- Shave carefully – If shaving in between treatments for convenience, use a clean, fresh razor and gentle motions to avoid bumps.
- Limit caffeine – Caffeine intake can amplify any discomfort during treatments. Avoid coffee, tea, and sodas near your appointment time.
- Clean underarms – Come to your session with freshly washed armpits – no deodorant, lotions or residue on the skin.
- Use numbing cream – For high pain tolerance patients, we may recommend using a topical anesthetic 30 minutes prior to treatment. This helps maximize your comfort.
- Avoid exercise – Sweating and friction can irritate skin after treatments. Take it easy for 24 hours with no vigorous activity.
By carefully following our guidance, you can expect the fastest results and mildest side effects from your laser armpit hair removal. We want you to enjoy the process!
Laser Hair Removal at Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness – FAQs
If you still have questions about laser underarm hair removal, check out these common patient concerns:
Does laser hair removal completely eliminate armpit hair?
Most patients enjoy up to 90% permanent reduction, but not complete removal. A few stray hairs may regrow over time and require occasional touch ups. Complete elimination is rare.
Is laser hair removal for armpits painful?
There is mild discomfort – light pinching or rubber band snaps as the laser pulses. Our advanced cooling systems and numbing cream keep you comfortable.
How many sessions of laser hair removal for armpits are needed?
Typically 4-6 sessions every 4-6 weeks are required for long-term reduction. Maintenance may be needed in the years following for stray regrowth.
When can I resume shaving in between laser sessions?
Once any redness resolves within 24 hours, gentle shaving is OK if desired. Use a fresh razor and light touch to avoid irritation.
How long do I have to grow my armpit hair before laser treatments?
Allow 4-6 weeks of growth prior to your first session for the laser to target active follicles. No trimming or removal during this time.
Can I get laser armpit hair removal if I have dark skin?
Yes, with the proper laser wavelength and Dr. Soni’s experience in treating all skin tones, dark complexions can achieve great results.
What should I look for in a laser hair removal provider?
Choose an experienced specialist. Look for an established office with modern devices and extensive training. Beware of deals that seem “too good to be true.”
Is there financing available for laser armpit hair removal?
Yes, Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness offers financing options through trusted partners. We also offer discounts when you purchase bundled packages upfront.
Do I need to take time off work/school after laser armpit treatments?
There is no significant downtime, but you’ll want to avoid vigorous activity for 24 hours that could rub underarms. Most patients resume normal routines immediately.
When will I see results from laser armpit hair removal?
After 2-3 sessions spaced a month apart, you’ll notice less regrowth between shaves/waxes. Maximal results take 4-6 treatments plus occasional maintenance.
Don’t see your question here? Call Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness today to schedule a free consultation.
Contact Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness for Premier Laser Hair Removal
We hope this guide gave you all the details on “how much is laser hair removal for armpits” as well as what to expect from treatment. Dr. Soni’s expertise, our advanced lasers, and a welcoming environment provide safe, comfortable care for the underarms you’ve always wanted.
To schedule your free consultation and personalized quote, contact Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness today. We look forward to earning your trust and confidence for all your laser
