I currently can't afford laser but for epilation I cut down on coffee a few days before, and take a light pain killer. I know some people use numbing creams though. Another important think to note is that although the more often you do anything the less it hurts, if you do laser too frequently your skin may become sensitive. On a side note my doctor mentioned I may want to do laser before I get more sensitive. but you know the unfortunate reality YMMV