Curious to learn more about how laser hair reduction works? Hair reduction is achieved through the use of a low-energy laser beam that is absorbed by any hair follicles that are in an active growth phase. The energy then disables the hair follicle. Depending on how large the treatment area is, the process can take several minutes or several hours. Pain is minimal—most patients compare it to the snapping of a rubber band—so anesthesia is not typically used. Not all hair follicles are in an active phase at the same time, so this process will need to be repeated several times to reach the remaining hair follicles. The best candidates have good contrast between their skin color and darker hair color.