Laser hair reduction is the process of removing unwanted hairs by means of exposure to pulses of laser light that destroy the hair follicles.

It has become popular because of its speed and efficacy, although some of the efficacy is dependent upon the skill and the choice of different laser technologies used for the procedure. Hair grows in several phases (anagen, telogen, catagen) and a laser can only affect the currently active growing hair follicles (early anagen). Hence, several sessions are needed to kill hair in all phases of growth.

The number of sessions depends on various parameters, including the area of the body being treated, skin color, coarseness of hair, reason for hirsutism, and sex. Usually 6 -10 treatments are required for maximum result.

Treatment is conducted every 3-6 weeks until a satisfactory result is obtained.

Certain areas (notably men's faces) may require considerably more treatments to achieve desired results. Coarse dark hair on light skin is easiest to treat. Laser does not work well on light-colored hair, red hair, grey hair, white hair, as well as fine hair of any color, such as vellus.

Laser treatment should be combined with medical management in patients with endocrine abnormality for best results.