Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt? Real Pain Levels & What to Expect

The short answer? Not really—if you come to Vitality Laser Clinic in Victoria, BC, where we have the most advanced cooling system available.

Most people describe our laser treatment as a quick snapping sensation, similar to an elastic band lightly flicking against the skin—but thanks to our superior cooling technology, it’s far more comfortable than treatments with standard lasers.

Not All Lasers Are Created Equal

Many laser systems lack effective cooling, making treatments hot, harsh, or even painful. Some clinics use:

• Sapphire cooling plates, which cool the skin only after the laser pulse, not before.

• Cold air cooling, which provides inconsistent relief.

• Ultrasound gel cooling, which can feel sticky, cold, and messy.

At Vitality Laser Clinic in Greater Victoria (Saanich), BC, we use advanced cryogen cooling technology, which sprays a cold, fine mist onto the skin milliseconds before each laser pulse, making it so that you don’t even really feel the heat from the laser, which comes a split second after the cryogen spray. This makes treatments significantly more comfortable than with other laser types.

Here’s how laser hair removal compares to other common hair removal methods:

To ensure the best experience:

• Shave the Treatment Area: Shave one day prior to your appointment. This allows the laser to effectively target hair follicles while minimizing skin sensitivity.
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Skin can only tolerate so much UV light before it burns. Sun exposure can increase sensitivity and make treatments less comfortable.
• Stay Hydrated: Well-hydrated skin responds better to laser treatments and aids in the healing process.