Understanding Anxiety and Knowledge Gaps Surrounding Laser Hair Removal: A Clinic-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Laser hair removal (LHR) is a widely used cosmetic procedure; however, misconceptions and anxiety regarding its safety and effectiveness remain common and may influence treatment decisions. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess attitudes, misconceptions, and anxiety related to LHR among adult dermatology clinic attendees in Saudi Arabia and to identify factors associated with LHR-related anxiety and knowledge levels. Methods: A cross-sectional clinic-based survey was conducted among adults in Saudi Arabia between August and December 2025 using a structured Arabic/English questionnaire. Data collected included sociodemographic characteristics, LHR-related anxiety measured on a visual analog scale (VAS), and LHR knowledge. Anxiety was analyzed as both a continuous score and a categorical variable, while knowledge was scored using an 11-item questionnaire. Associations were examined using chi-square tests, and independent predictors were assessed using multinomial logistic regression. Results: A total of 400 participants were included (mean age 24.5 ± 7.9 years; 89.5% female). Overall anxiety was low (mean VAS 2.5 ± 2.9), although 32.2% reported moderate-to-severe anxiety. Adequate knowledge was observed in 39.5% of participants. In adjusted analyses, adequate knowledge was independently associated with lower likelihood of severe anxiety. Female sex and Saudi nationality were strong predictors of higher knowledge levels. Conclusions: In this clinic-based sample, LHR-related anxiety was generally low, although misconceptions persisted in a substantial proportion of participants. Improving patient knowledge through targeted, evidence-based education may help reduce anxiety, support realistic expectations, and promote informed decision-making regarding LHR.