From what I've experienced, most people need between 6 to 8 sessions spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart to see significant results, though this can vary depending on your skin type and hair color. The pain is often described as feeling like a rubber band snapping against your skin, but it's really manageable and most clinics use cooling systems to make it more comfortable. Recovery is pretty straightforward – you might experience some redness for a few hours, kind of like a mild sunburn, but you can usually return to normal activities right away. Just avoid sun exposure and strenuous exercise for a day or two afterward.