What LaserAway Is and How Their Service Works

LaserAway is a laser hair removal chain with locations across the United States that offers in-person treatments using FDA-cleared laser technology. You book an appointment at one of their clinics, attend a consultation, and then receive laser hair removal sessions on a schedule tailored to your hair type and skin tone. The company operates its own facilities rather than partnering with salons or spas, which means the same staff and equipment are present at each location.

The process begins with a free consultation where a technician assesses your skin and hair to determine which laser system will work best for you. LaserAway uses multiple laser platforms — including Candela, Cynosure, and Lumenis devices — because different wavelengths work better on different skin tones and hair colors. During your first treatment session, the technician will test a small area, explain what to expect during the full session, and answer questions about aftercare.

Each session typically lasts 15 to 60 minutes depending on the area being treated. You will need multiple sessions spaced 4 to 12 weeks apart because hair grows in cycles and the laser only removes hair in the active growth phase. Most people see significant hair reduction after 6 to 8 sessions, though the exact number varies based on your hair density, skin type, and the area being treated.

Key Takeaways

  • LaserAway operates its own clinics and uses FDA-cleared laser systems that are selected based on your individual skin tone and hair type during a free consultation.
  • Treatment sessions range from 15 to 60 minutes and must be spaced weeks apart because hair grows in cycles and the laser targets only actively growing hair.
  • Most people need 6 to 8 sessions to see significant results, though the exact number depends on your hair density, skin type, and the body area being treated.
  • LaserAway offers package pricing where you pay upfront for multiple sessions, and individual session pricing is also available if you prefer to pay as you go.
  • You should avoid sun exposure, certain medications, and plucking between sessions to get the best results and reduce the risk of side effects.

Pricing and Payment Options at LaserAway

LaserAway uses a package model where you purchase a set number of sessions upfront rather than paying per session. The total cost depends on the body area — treating a small area like the upper lip costs less than treating the full legs or back. Prices vary by location and change periodically, so you will need to contact your local LaserAway clinic or visit their website for current rates in your area.

The company also offers financing through third-party lenders like CareCredit and Affirm, which allow you to split the cost into monthly payments. Some locations may offer their own payment plans as well. If you are unsure whether a package or individual sessions make sense for your situation, the consultation is free and the staff can walk you through the pricing structure for your specific treatment area.

What Happens During a LaserAway Treatment Session

On the day of your appointment, you will arrive a few minutes early to check in. The technician will have you change into a gown or position yourself so the treatment area is exposed. They will explore a cooling gel to your skin — this protects the surface and helps the laser energy reach the hair follicle beneath.

The laser handpiece is then moved across the treatment area in a systematic pattern. You will feel heat and may hear a clicking sound as the laser fires. Most people describe the sensation as a rubber band snapping against the skin, though the intensity varies depending on your pain tolerance and the laser settings used. The cooling gel and sometimes a cooling air device help manage discomfort during the session.

After the session ends, the technician will remove the gel, explore a soothing lotion or aloe, and review aftercare instructions with you. Your skin may be slightly red or warm when ready after treatment, but this usually fades within a few hours. You will be given a date for your next appointment before you leave.

Aftercare and What to Avoid Between Sessions

Between LaserAway sessions, you need to protect your skin and avoid activities that can interfere with results or cause irritation. The most important rule is to avoid direct sun exposure on the treated area for at least two weeks after each session. If you must go outside, wear SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and consider covering the area with clothing.

Do not pluck, wax, or use depilatory creams on the treated area between sessions. These methods remove hair above the skin, but the laser needs the hair root to be intact beneath the surface to work effectively. Shaving is fine because it only cuts hair at the surface. You should also avoid hot baths, saunas, and intense exercise for 24 to 48 hours after treatment because heat can irritate your skin.

Certain medications and supplements can increase your sensitivity to the laser or cause complications. Blood thinners, some antibiotics, and high-dose vitamin A products may need to be paused before treatment. Always tell your LaserAway technician about any medications or supplements you take during your consultation so they can advise you on what to adjust.

Skin Types and Hair Colors That Work Best With LaserAway

Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in hair, so it is most effective on dark hair and lighter skin. However, LaserAway's use of multiple laser platforms means they can treat a wider range of skin tones than some other providers. The consultation is where this gets determined — the technician will assess your skin tone and hair color and select the laser that will be safest and most effective for you.

People with very light or gray hair may see slower results because there is less pigment for the laser to target. People with very dark skin tones historically had fewer options, but newer laser systems like the Candela GentleMax Pro and Cynosure Elite+ are designed to work safely on darker skin. If you have been told elsewhere that laser hair removal would not work for you, a LaserAway consultation can clarify whether their equipment and informed make a difference.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

Most people experience only mild temporary side effects. Redness, slight swelling, and a sensation similar to a mild sunburn are common and usually fade within hours to a day. Some people develop small bumps or temporary darkening of the skin, which also typically resolves on its own.

More serious side effects are rare when the treatment is performed correctly on appropriate skin types. Blistering, permanent skin discoloration, and scarring can occur if the laser settings are too high for your skin type or if aftercare instructions are not followed. This is why the consultation and technician informed matter — they assess your skin and set the laser appropriately for you.

Certain conditions make laser hair removal riskier. If you have active skin infections, open wounds, or a history of keloid scarring, mention this during your consultation. Pregnancy is not considered safe for laser treatment, so if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant soon, wait until after pregnancy to start sessions.

How LaserAway Compares to Other Hair Removal Methods

Laser hair removal at LaserAway is more expensive upfront than waxing or shaving, but the results last much longer. After completing a full course of sessions, many people go months or years before needing touch-up treatments. Waxing requires repeat appointments every 4 to 6 weeks indefinitely, and shaving requires daily or weekly maintenance.

Compared to at-home laser devices, LaserAway uses professional-grade equipment that is more powerful and more precisely calibrated than consumer devices. Professional treatments also include a consultation to may support the right laser is chosen for your skin and hair, which reduces the risk of ineffective treatment or side effects. At-home devices are cheaper but often take longer to show results and carry a higher risk of misuse.

Electrolysis is another professional hair removal method that works on all hair colors and skin tones, but it is slower — each hair is treated individually — and can be more uncomfortable. Laser is faster and less painful for most people, which is why it has become the more popular choice for larger treatment areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many LaserAway sessions do I actually need?

Most people need 6 to 8 sessions to see significant hair reduction, but this varies based on your hair density, skin type, and the area being treated. Some people see results in fewer sessions; others need more. Your technician can give you a better estimate after your consultation based on your individual hair and skin characteristics.

Can I get laser hair removal if I have dark skin?

Yes, LaserAway uses multiple laser platforms designed to work on different skin tones, including darker skin. The consultation determines which laser is safest and most effective for you. Newer systems like the Candela GentleMax Pro and Cynosure Elite+ are specifically designed for darker skin tones, so ask which equipment your location uses.

What if I miss an appointment or want to pause my sessions?

Contact your LaserAway location directly to reschedule or discuss pausing your package. Most locations allow you to reschedule appointments, and policies on package expiration or pausing vary by location. It is best to call as soon as you know you need to change your schedule.

Will the hair grow back after LaserAway treatment?

Most people experience permanent hair reduction, meaning the hair that is removed does not grow back. However, some hair regrowth is possible over time, and hormonal changes can trigger new hair growth. Many people return for occasional touch-up sessions every 6 to 12 months to maintain results.

Can I use LaserAway if I am taking medications?

Some medications can increase your sensitivity to the laser or cause complications. Blood thinners, certain antibiotics, and high-dose vitamin A products may need to be paused. Always tell your technician about any medications or supplements you take during your consultation so they can advise you on what to adjust or avoid.