Laser hair removal (LHR) is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair.
In LHR, a laser emits light absorbed by hair pigment. The energy turns to heat, damaging hair follicles and inhibiting future growth.
People use LHR to reduce unwanted hair.
People commonly treat areas like the legs, armpits, upper lip, chin, and the bikini line.
However, you can treat unwanted hair in nearly any area, except for the eyelid or surrounding area.
Also, avoid treating skin with tattoos.
Wondering about insurance coverage? We’ve got you covered with info on this popular procedure.
Insurance Coverage for LHR: What You Need to Know
Insurance rarely covers LHR as it’s not usually considered medically necessary.
Coverage is more likely for cases like excessive hair growth due to medical conditions like PCOS.
How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?
Its cost varies based on treatment area, sessions needed, and location.
A session can be $200-$500.
People often require multiple sessions, totaling hundreds to thousands, which often lead them to self-pay instead of using insurance.
Survey Results and Data Analysis
American Society of Plastic Surgeons survey:
4% had insurance cover for laser hair removal.
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56% paid out of pocket, 40% didn’t do it.
29% cited cost as why they didn’t proceed.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Karen Horton, plastic surgeon, states laser hair removal is cosmetic, usually not covered by insurance.
Exceptions for medical necessity.
Choose skilled practitioners, proper equipment to reduce risks.
Personal Experiences
I had laser hair removal years ago – cost high but worth it.
No more shaving or waxing. Had minor redness and irritation, gone in a day or two.
Curiosities and Interesting Facts
- It was first approved by the FDA in 1997.
- You can use LHR on almost any part of the body, including the face, legs, arms, underarms, and bikini area.
- The procedure uses a concentrated beam of light to target and destroy hair follicles, resulting in long-lasting hair reduction.
- Most patients require several treatments to achieve the desired results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser hair removal covered by insurance?
Insurance usually excludes it due to cosmetic nature. Some exceptions if medically needed.
Is laser hair removal safe?
It is safe with skilled practitioners. Risks include redness, swelling, and irritation, as with any medical procedure.
How many treatments are required for laser hair removal?
Typically, 6-8 sessions needed for desired results. Number varies based on area size, hair thickness, and color.
What are the potential side effects of laser hair removal?
Common effects include: redness, swelling, irritation. Rarely: blisters, scarring, pigmentation changes. Prior to procedure, discuss risks with practitioner.
Can laser hair removal be used on all skin types?
Laser hair suits light skin, dark hair best. More sessions needed for darker skin or lighter hair.
How much does laser hair removal cost?
Its cost varies based on area size, sessions needed, and location. Sessions range from $200 to $500 on average.
T Bag is an insurance expert with a degree in actuarial science from the University of Hartford. He has over 10 years of experience in risk management, product development, and pricing. He is a certified actuary and a member of the American Academy of Actuaries. He is passionate about helping clients find the best insurance solutions for their needs and goals. He is looking for new opportunities in the insurance field.