Laser hair removal

Why it's done

By Mayo Clinic staff Laser hair removal is used to remove unwanted hair. Common treatment locations include legs, armpits, upper lip, chin and bikini line. However, it's possible to treat unwanted hair in nearly any area.

Hair color and skin type influence the success of laser hair removal. For example, laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair because the laser beam targets the pigment (melanin) in the hair. People who have darker skin can also attempt laser hair removal, but the laser beam may also affect the melanin in the skin. Laser hair removal isn't generally effective for white, blond or gray hair — although treatment options for lighter hair continue to be investigated.