What you actually feel
Each laser pulse heats the hair root. You feel heat and a short sting where the hair is dense and dark, and very little where it is fine. The feeling gets milder over the course of treatment because there is less hair to absorb the energy.
How the machines keep it comfortable
The Candela GentleLase Pro sprays a cold burst onto the skin a split second before each pulse. The Deka Motus AY cools through the handpiece and uses Moveo, a gliding technique that warms the area gradually instead of with single strong pulses, which most people find very comfortable.
Areas that feel more
Thin skin and dense hair feel more: upper lip, bikini line, underarms and men's beard line. Legs, arms and back are usually easy.
Tips for a more comfortable session
Shave the day before so the laser does not heat hair above the skin. Avoid caffeine right before if you are sensitive. Tell the team if it feels too strong; they can adjust settings during the session.
Written by the Jothen Clinics team. Updated 25 October 2026. This guide is general information. Your branch confirms what suits your skin and hair at your first visit.