SPRINGFIELD — Thanks to an initiative led by State Senator Graciela Guzmán, people requiring laser hair removal due to a medical condition may soon be able to get this procedure covered by their insurance plans.

“For thousands of Illinoisans, not having access to an essential procedure addressing a serious health condition can be detrimental for their quality of life—not only because of the impact to their physical health, but also their mental health, knowing that their health condition is not seen as important enough to merit health care coverage for its treatment,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “I am grateful this measure has become law so folks can access the care they need and feel more seen and valued by the health care industry.”

Since laser hair removal was previously considered a cosmetic procedure, it was not covered by many health insurance plans. However, there are cases in which laser hair removal is considered medically necessary, including for people with Hidradenitis Suppurativa, a chronic inflammatory skin condition caused by blocked hair follicles, severe hormonal disorders that may lead to excess hair growth, and gender dysphoria. For people with these conditions, going through life without laser hair removal causes immense physical and mental discomfort, but unfortunately cannot be addressed by all insurance plans currently available. 

To give more people the ability to seek medically necessary care, House Bill 3248, championed by State Representative Lilian Jiménez, requires all state employee health plans and private insurance plans to cover medically necessary laser hair removal if the procedure is a prescribed medical treatment in accordance with generally accepted standards of medical care. People diagnosed with these conditions will now be able to pursue this treatment plan at a lower personal cost and improve their quality of life. 

“Living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa has been an emotional journey. It's painful knowing that necessary procedures exist but remain out of reach without paying thousands or turning to unsafe options,” said Estrella Vazquez, an advocate who testified in committee in support of this legislation. “This care isn’t cosmetic, it’s essential. Conditions like mine have been overlooked for too long. I’m proud to be part of this advocacy and hope to inspire others to get involved.”

“Health care should be defined by what patients need, not outdated assumptions about what’s considered ‘cosmetic,’” said Rep. Jiménez. “I’m proud to sponsor the Medically Necessary Hair Removal Coverage Act because laser hair removal is vital, evidence-based care for people living with conditions like PCOS, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, and those seeking gender-affirming treatment. This is essential care, not cosmetic, and it’s time our policies reflect that.”

House Bill 3248 was signed into law on Friday.