How much is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal averages about $697 per session in the U.S. (2023 ASPS data), commonly $100–$1,200 per session by body area.
Key takeaways
- The U.S. average is about $697 per session (American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 2023).
- Per-session prices commonly range $100–$1,200 depending on the area treated.
- Small areas like the upper lip run about $100–$200; full legs about $400–$700 per session.
- The American Academy of Dermatology notes most patients need 2 to 6 treatments, spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
- Package deals often cut per-session costs by about 20–30%; insurance rarely covers cosmetic removal.
Laser hair removal costs about $697 per session on average in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Real per-session prices commonly range from about $100 for a small area like the upper lip to about $1,200 for large areas, and most people need several sessions for lasting results.
Laser hair removal is priced per session and per body area, so the total you pay depends on how large the area is and how many sessions you complete. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reports a national average of $697 per session (2023 data), a figure that does not include related expenses like consultations or aftercare. Providers and cost trackers put the broader per-session range at roughly $100 to $1,200, driven mostly by area size.
Laser hair removal cost by body area
Smaller zones are cheapest per session; large or combined areas cost the most. The ranges below reflect typical per-session pricing compiled from U.S. providers:
| Area | Typical cost (per session) |
|---|---|
| Upper lip / chin | $100–$200 |
| Full face | $250–$450 |
| Underarms | $150–$350 |
| Bikini line | $150–$300 |
| Brazilian | $250–$450 |
| Full legs | $400–$700 |
| Full back | $300–$600 |
Because several sessions are needed, plan for the per-session price multiplied by your treatment count. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) notes that most patients need 2 to 6 treatments, usually spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart; some providers recommend 6 to 8 sessions plus occasional maintenance for the smoothest result. A full course for a small area may total a few hundred dollars, while large areas can run into the thousands.
To make the math concrete: an upper lip at $100–$200 per session across a typical course lands in the low hundreds, underarms at $150–$350 per session add up to several hundred, and full legs at $400–$700 per session can total a few thousand dollars over a complete course. The AAD points out that hair color and thickness, the area treated, the laser type, and your skin tone all influence how many sessions you’ll actually need — which is why two people treating the same area can end up with different totals.
What moves the price
- Size of the area: The single biggest driver — upper lip is a fraction of the cost of full legs or a full back.
- Number of sessions: Hair color, thickness, skin tone, and the area treated all affect how many sessions you need (AAD).
- Provider and technology: A board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon may charge more than a med spa; the laser type also matters (ASPS).
- Geographic location: Big-city clinics typically charge more than smaller markets (ASPS).
- Packages: Buying a multi-session bundle often lowers the per-session price by about 20–30%.
Does insurance help?
Laser hair removal is considered cosmetic, so most health insurance plans do not cover it, and the quoted price rarely includes consultations or follow-up. When comparing clinics, ask whether the quote is per session or per package, how many sessions are recommended for your area, and what’s included.
A few practical tips can keep the total in check. Many clinics price a multi-session package below the sum of individual visits — often a 20–30% saving — so if you’re committed to a full course, a bundle usually beats paying visit by visit. It’s also worth clarifying whether the average $697-per-session figure quoted by the ASPS reflects a single small area or a larger zone, since “per session” can mean very different things depending on how much skin is treated. Finally, confirm whether touch-up or maintenance sessions after the initial course are billed separately, as those can add to the lifetime cost.
This is general cost information, not medical advice — consult a licensed provider. The figures here are ranges that vary by clinic, body area, and region, and are current as of the verified date; ask for a personalized treatment plan and quote before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
How much does laser hair removal cost per session?
The U.S. average is about $697 per session (ASPS, 2023). Depending on the area, per-session prices commonly range from about $100 for the upper lip to $1,200 for large areas.
How much is laser hair removal for underarms or a Brazilian?
Underarms typically run about $150–$350 per session and a Brazilian about $250–$450 per session, before any package discount.
How many sessions will I need?
The American Academy of Dermatology says most patients need 2 to 6 treatments, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Some providers suggest 6–8 sessions plus maintenance for the best result.
What's the total cost for a full course?
Multiply the per-session price by your session count. Small areas may total a few hundred dollars; large areas like full legs can reach a few thousand over a full course.
Can I save money on laser hair removal?
Many clinics offer multi-session packages that lower the per-session price by roughly 20–30% compared with paying one session at a time.
Does insurance cover laser hair removal?
Usually not. It's considered a cosmetic procedure, so most plans don't cover it, and consultations or aftercare may cost extra.
Sources
