by Jeff Birchall, MD

After so many years or decades of shaving, waxing, and tweezing away unwanted hair, the speed and convenience of laser hair removal start to look more and more appealing. Compared to other hair-removal methods, laser-based techniques offer the cleanest results as well as less hair to contend with over time. Unfortunately, the upfront cost of these procedures can sometimes turn more than a few people away.

The good news is treatment centers like Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics offer a range of financing options to make laser hair removal affordable for most budgets. You can also expect staff to explain pricing to you before your treatment once they understand your aesthetic goals. Knowing what you might expect regarding treatment costs and financing options can go a long way toward helping you simplify your life with laser hair removal treatments.

Laser Hair Removal: Benefits Versus Cost

Compared to shaving and waxing, laser hair removal may seem like the most expensive option in the short term. However, depending on the extent of hair growth you experience, staying on top of the situation can quickly turn into a never-ending task with a constant cost factor to consider when it comes to shaving and waxing. Even cheap disposable razors can add up over a lifetime, what more the amount of time that’s spent removing every last hair.

While laser hair removal may entail a significant cost at the beginning, the results last considerably longer than what you see with waxing and shaving methods, saving you both time and money. The duration of the outcome can also increase the value of laser hair removal substantially over the years.

Laser technology in any form can carry a high price tag. Laser hair removal systems cost tens of thousands of dollars, even in used condition. Add to this the costs of training medical professionals to operate the equipment, and it’s easy to understand why laser removal techniques are so pricey.

Despite the expense, the benefits of laser hair removal far outweigh the costs. Benefits to expect include:

  • Precision – lasers can target hair follicles without damaging the surrounding skin
  • Versatility – lasers can remove unwanted hair from nearly any area of the body, including the arms, legs, face, bikini line, and underarms
  • Long-term effects – permanent hair reduction can be expected after six to eight sessions in most cases
  • Quickness – laser pulses eliminate several hairs at a time within a fraction of a second

Estimated Cost Breakdowns for Laser Hair Removal Procedures

As a general rule, the larger the area being treated, the higher the cost. Body areas that require more precision in technique, such as the face, also tend to cost more. On average, the cost of a procedure can run anywhere from $150 to $900, depending on the size of the area of the body being treated.

Here is an estimated cost breakdown per type of procedure:

  • Underarms – $250 to $350
  • Bikini area – $350 to $500
  • Chest – $350 to $600
  • Legs – $600 to $850
  • Back – $600 to $900
  • Face and neck – $600 to $900

Treatment Planning and Financing Options at Dermacare  

While laser treatments can be costlier than other methods of hair removal, you don’t have to let financial concerns be the deciding factor. Several financing options are available to make the costs of laser hair removal affordable for everyone. Our staff will develop a personalized treatment plan that not only addresses your particular desires and goals but also fits within your budget.

Clinics typically offer the following types of financing options:

  • Care Credit
  • Prosper Healthcare Lending
  • Cash
  • All major credit cards

Applying for financing is quick and easy, and in most cases can be done in our office. Immediate application approval makes it possible for you to begin hair removal treatment on the same day. Overall, laser hair removal procedures may be expensive, but in the short run, you’ll need far fewer treatments than with any other hair removal method.

Jeff Birchall, MD, is a member of the American Society of Cosmetic Surgeons and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. He has also achieved Black Diamond status for his administration of Botox injections. He practices at Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics, with two locations in Carlsbad and San Diego.