If you like the idea of being hair-free but hate the shaving and waxing admin, laser hair removal might just be for you. Previously reserved for those with lots of cash to splash and plenty of time on their hands, the treatment is now more affordable and hair removal sessions are speedier than ever thanks to advanced and readily available laser technology.

So if you’re wondering what the process is, what results you can expect and how many sessions you’ll need to see a reduction in hair, read on because we’ve been chatting to Chloe Layton, Laser Clinics UK’s expert, to answer some of the most-searched laser hair removal questions.

First of all, what exactly is laser hair removal?

“It’s a permanent hair reduction method using single wavelength energy to target the hair directly and destroy the hair follicle to reduce hair growth in the area,” explains Chloe.

The bikini line, underarms, legs and face are the most common areas people want a permanent reduction in hair

How does it differ from IPL?

“IPL, or intense pulsed light, uses multiple wavelengths combined with a topical gel on the skin to reduce hair growth,” she adds. “It emits more unfocused energy around the hair and skin area compared to laser hair removal, so it’s less effective at long-term hair reduction.”

What areas are commonly treated with laser hair removal?

A range of areas can be treated but Chloe says that the bikini line, underarms, legs and face are the most common areas people want a permanent reduction in hair.

Can it work on all hair types and skin tones?

Hair removal used to only really be effective for those with dark hair and lighter skin, but advanced technology now means the treatment is for everyone. “We can treat all skin tones by utilising a different wavelength laser,” Chloe says. “Essentially, if your hair has a degree of pigment and density, it will work for you.”

How many sessions will I need? And will I need future top-up sessions?

Most clinics will recommend a course of 8-10 sessions. After that, top-up/maintenance sessions should be scheduled every 3-6 months to maintain the results.

How much of a reduction in hair can I expect, and how quickly will I see results?

“We aim for a 90% reduction in hair growth after the 8-10 sessions have been completed,” Chloe says. “With each treatment, the active hairs will be treated and the results will be more noticeable about a week after every session.”

You can expect up to a 90% reduction in hair growth after the 8-10 sessions have been completed

Is there a “best” hair removal machine for long-term removal?

“At Laser Clinics UK we use Candela Gmax Pro, which is a gold standard medical device to safely and effectively treat all skin types. It’s very effective because it varies wavelengths, meaning stubborn hair is targeted,” says Chloe, who also stresses that when you’re considering an aesthetics clinic, you should make sure they’re able to tailor your treatment to your skin and hair type.

Are treatments painful?

“I tell clients the sensation is similar to a gentle flick on the skin. It’s completely comfortable and tolerable. In fact, clients often comment how pleasantly surprised they are by the lack of pain,” Chloe says.

It’s worth noting that sometimes a bit of extra discomfort is experienced by women who are due on their periods (around 5-11 days before it), so it may be worth considering booking your treatments to avoid that time frame.

Can I have laser hair removal if I've been in the sun? If I'm pregnant?

“We tell clients to avoid sun exposure on the area they want to treat for 2-4 weeks prior to the session,” Chloe advises. “As for pregnancy, having laser sessions when you’re expecting is mostly not recommended due to the fluctuations in hormones. It’s better to be on the safe side and wait until after you’ve given birth.”

How much does laser hair removal cost?

At Laser Clinics UK prices start from just £9 for an underarm treatment. Ten sessions of laser hair removal on the bikini area (Brazilian) and underarms will cost you around £390, while 10 sessions on the legs will cost around £900.

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By Editor