The most booked laser treatment in India is definitely underarms. Many people consider underarm laser hair removal India as the stepping stone to the realm of aesthetic treatment, as it provides quick results with amazing effectiveness and solves a number of skin problem issues at once. The underarms are also a great “return on investment” since it saves a lot of grooming time that can be life-changing. This method treats hair follicles directly, so that you will no longer need to shave or wax, which is a daily bother and can be painful.
Why Laser for Underarms Is the Most Popular Starting Point
In the case of a novice to the realm of beauty therapies, it makes sense to begin with your armpits. Dermatologists say it is the #1 requested area by first timers in India as the sessions are very short, usually 15 minutes. This makes it an ideal "Lunchtime Procedure" for the busy professional in a city such as Bangalore, Mumbai or Delhi.
The visual impact is there and high - the underarm hair is thicker and darker than body hair and therefore is much more readily able to absorb the laser than the finer body hair. It doesn't only reduce hair, it corrects the "strawberry skin" texture (folliculitis) that comes with shaving and the stubble that spoils sleeveless looks. This process has an instant influence on one's lifestyle, and they can wear what they want without having to bother with a grooming regimen or worry about any hair growth that would be visible.
Does Laser Help with Dark Underarms (Hyperpigmentation)?
Under arm laser treatments are among the most frequently asked about with regards to the possibility of lightening the skin. The short answer is Yes but it is important to understand the biological mechanism behind this change. Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is the main cause of most dark underarms laser issues in Indians.
This darkening is caused by the repetitive action of the shaving blade which causes micro tears, or from the heat and "tug" of hot wax which strips away the sensitive skin. Laser eliminates this cycle of irritation when you switch over. In time, the skin takes over the job of repairing itself and the melanocytes, which produce pigment, are no longer being over stimulated by the friction of the day.
“By removing the necessity of abrasive hair removal techniques, the skin gets a chance to heal itself. Also, the laser focuses on the dark pigment in the hair follicles, which often causes a ‘shadow' effect that appears as skin darkening, but is actually just hair below the surface,” says an esteemed dermatologist based in Mumbai.
Additionally, many contemporary laser devices have a gentle skin rejuvenating effect. The patients notice a lot of brightening in the area as the hair that has deep roots vanish into the "shadow". Underarm laser results do not involve bleaching, but they can help you get an even skin tone as well as hair removal. Most Indian patients can notice reduction in the discolouration of skin after three sessions.
How Many Sessions for Underarm Laser Removal?
The underarm area is especially sensitive to the latest technology because its hair follicles are generally deep and rich with pigment. Most clinics in India are using the Diode laser or Triple Wavelength (Alexandrite, Diode, YAG) laser that is specifically designed for Indian skin tones and their melanin content.
With 4 to 6 treatments, the patient should be able to see a 80-90% reduction in hair growth. The results are more consistent because underarm hair is more likely to be in the "anagen" (active growth) stage. It is important to follow the schedule (typically 1 session per 4-6 weeks), however.
This timeframe can be affected by some biological factors:
- Hormonal Imbalances- Individuals with PCOS, for example, might need 8 to 10 sessions to control the new follicle stimulating.
- Hair Densit- Coarser hair often responds faster to the initial pulses.
- Maintenance- After the first cycle most people will require just a single maintenance session once or twice a year to maintain smooth, healthy skin.
This is much better than waxing which requires monthly or half monthly visits to a salon.
Pain Level and What to Expect During Underarm Laser
Some people are reluctant because of the laser underarm hair removal pain that is associated with the procedure. The underarm has lots of nerve endings but the pain is far less intense than the skin-tearing pain that comes from being waxed. Patients report that the sensation is a "mild rubber band snap" or multiple small, cold pricks.
The modern machines used in high-end Indian clinics have Sapphire cooling tips or there is a built in "cryo" technology which cools the skin to sub-zero levels upon contact. This will pre-cool the area millisecond prior to the laser pulse striking, which will create a really pleasant experience. A typical session lasts 15-20 minutes so even if it causes a little discomfort it will be for a very short period.
A topical numbing cream can be used 30 minutes prior to the procedure if you have an extremely low pain tolerance. But most patients in India are not at all bothered by the ‘in-motion' technology of new lasers and hence do not have to use numbing agents. It feels a little warm after the session, but this will subside in an hour or so.
Pre and Post Care Specifically for Underarms
Sticking to a protocol is key for best results and irritation free operation.
- Shave: It is important to shave the area 24 hours prior to the appointment.
- No Waxing: Do not pluck or wax within 4 weeks of the time of the laser, because the laser requires the roots to be there for it to function.
- No Deodorant: Please refrain from using deodorant, perfumes or powders on your underarms the day of your session. Such chemicals can act as a barrier or may absorb the heat from the laser and produce a burn on the skin.
- Clothing: Refrain from using antiperspirants and wearing tight, non-breathable clothing for 24-48 hours after the session.
- Heat: Keep the area cool for 24 hours by avoiding hot showers, going to the gym or sauna.
To learn more about general rules, refer to our guide on Pre & Post Care for Laser Hair Removal. With the proper care, you will not experience any temporary redness or "sunburn" sensation which can happen after treatment.
Cost of Underarm Laser Hair Removal in India
Laser hair removal underarms cost is surprisingly low and is the easiest and cheapest area to treat. In India the price of a single session is anywhere between ₹1,500 to ₹3,500 depending on the city and the complexity of the technology. Elitist clinics in metropolitan areas can charge for the up to date painless machines.
A good clinic will provide packages of 6-8 sessions for a discounted rate. The cost of these packages can be quite substantial as well, and sometimes they can fall as low as ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 for an entire year. The cost of laser is not only an enhancement for the aesthetic look, it is a long-term money saver compared to the disposable razors and anti-pigmentation creams used for monthly waxing.
It's also a good way to "test the waters" before you go for larger, more expensive areas such as the legs or even a Laser Hair Removal for Upper Lip & Chin treatment. Some clinics even provide the first underarm session at a cheap rate as a trial.
