In recent years, laser hair removal has gained popularity as an effective solution for unwanted hair. However, questions often arise about whether the treatment is covered by insurance. In this article, we’ll unpack the factors that influence insurance coverage for laser hair removal to help you determine whether the treatment fits into your budget.
In most cases, laser hair removal is not covered by insurance because providers consider it an elective cosmetic procedure. However, exceptions may exist for patients with medical conditions that cause excessive hair growth, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances. In those cases, you may need to provide documentation proving you need laser treatment.
If you’re considering laser hair removal, be sure to check with your provider to understand your policy’s coverage details and potential out-of-pocket costs.
If you can provide documentation proving that laser treatment is medically necessary to treat your PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), you may be able to obtain some level of insurance coverage. But if you can’t, coverage is unlikely because most providers don’t cover cosmetic laser treatment.
If laser treatment is deemed medically necessary to address persistent folliculitis or associated complications, some insurers may provide full or partial coverage. You may need to provide documentation attesting to its necessity.
If the treatment isn’t determined to be medically necessary, coverage is unlikely.
If laser treatment is deemed medically necessary to manage the symptoms of or prevent further complications associated with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), you may be able to receive insurance coverage. But if it’s not determined to be medically necessary, coverage is unlikely.
Laser hair removal is generally not covered by Health Savings Accounts (HSA) because it’s categorized as an elective cosmetic procedure rather than a necessary medical treatment. However, in recent years, many companies have started allowing HSAs to be used at medspas. Check with your HR department to find out whether you can do so.
The cost of laser hair removal without insurance can vary widely depending on several factors, including the area(s) being treated, the number of sessions required, and the geographic location of the clinic.
On average, though, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $800 per session. Smaller areas, like the upper lip or underarms, typically fall at the lower end of this range, while larger areas, such as legs or backs, usually cost more.
Different providers will accept different payment methods, but in general, you can pay for laser hair removal in the following ways:
The number of laser hair removal sessions you’ll need to achieve your cosmetic goals will depend on your hair type, skin type, the area(s) being treated, and the results you wish to attain. That said, most patients require six to twelve sessions spaced six weeks apart.
Patients with finer or lighter hair may require additional sessions, while those with coarser hair might see results in fewer sessions. Ultimately, though, the only way to determine how many you’ll need is to consult an experienced provider like Bella Medspa.
In summary, while laser hair removal offers a convenient and effective solution for unwanted hair, the odds of your insurance provider covering the treatment are low. Generally, the procedure is considered cosmetic, so unless you can demonstrate a medical necessity, you’ll likely have to pay for it out of pocket.
Schedule a free laser hair removal consultation with Bella Medspa today for a personalized cost estimate.
Heather joined the Bella Medspa team in January of 2020. After working several years in dental industry and the fitness industry, she decided it was time to put her business management skills and her love for aesthetics to use. She currently manages our six Bella Medspa locations across Southeastern Pennsylvania and is dedicated to helping us build and grow as the world of aesthetics continues to evolve.
