While laser procedures can cause discomfort, it's not universally described as "hurting bad." The sensation varies from person to person and depends on the type of laser treatment. Here's a breakdown:
How Laser Procedures Might Feel
Laser treatments often involve a sensation that's been likened to:
- A rubber band snapping against the skin: This is a common description of the immediate feeling during laser application.
- Mild discomfort: Some people experience a degree of pain, which can vary in intensity.
- Mild sunburn: Post-treatment, you may feel redness, irritation, and tenderness, similar to a mild sunburn.
Factors Affecting Pain Levels
The intensity of discomfort can be influenced by:
- Type of Laser Treatment: Different lasers target different issues and have varying intensities.
- Individual Pain Tolerance: Each person's pain threshold is unique, impacting how they perceive the procedure.
- Treatment Area: Some areas of the body are more sensitive than others.
- Settings and Technique: The practitioner's experience and the specific settings used can also affect the comfort level.
Coping with Discomfort
Here are a few strategies that may help with managing any discomfort:
- Topical anesthetic creams: These can be applied before the procedure to numb the area.
- Cooling methods: Using a cold compress or gel packs post-treatment can alleviate redness and irritation.
- Open communication: Discuss any concerns with your practitioner before the procedure.
Summary of Experience
As noted in the reference material, you "may feel like your skin is being snapped with a rubber band. You may also experience mild discomfort after the procedure, such as redness and irritation similar to a mild sunburn. The procedure may also feel painful to some degree." (17-Jan-2020).
So, while some might not find it very painful, others may find it quite uncomfortable. It is not universally a severely painful procedure.
