Laser Hair Removal FAQs
Laser Hair Removal FAQs

Laser Hair Removal FAQs

Everything You Need to Know About Laser Hair Removal

Thinking about starting laser hair removal, or already a few sessions into your treatment? Here, I've answered the questions I hear most often at Every Body, covering safety, results, treatment schedules, and skin care before and after your appointments.

I want you to know what to expect at every stage, so you can make informed decisions and feel comfortable throughout your treatment.

Who is diode laser hair removal suitable for?

Diode laser hair removal can be suitable for a wide range of skin tones when the treatment settings are carefully selected. Its effectiveness depends on factors such as hair color and thickness, skin type, and the treatment area.

At Every Body, I assess your skin and hair before starting, so we can determine whether laser hair removal is the right choice for you.

Is laser hair removal safe?

Laser hair removal is a widely used treatment, but like any procedure that delivers energy to the skin, it isn't completely risk-free.

At Every Body, I use a diode laser system with Sapphire Touch cooling technology and customize the settings to your skin and hair characteristics. Before your first session, I carry out an assessment, review the relevant medical history, and follow appropriate safety measures, including protective eyewear.

Is laser hair removal 100% permanent?

Laser hair removal offers long-term hair reduction of up to 70–90% after just 6–8 sessions. However, it does not guarantee the permanent removal of every single hair.

After completing a full course of treatments, most hairs stop growing, while those that do grow back are often finer and less noticeable.

Results vary from person to person and depend on several factors, including the treatment area, age, and hormonal changes. In some cases, maintenance sessions may be needed.

How many laser sessions will I need?

Most people need a series of treatments, often around 6–8 sessions, although there's no single number that works for everyone.

The total depends on the area being treated, hair characteristics, growth cycles, and hormonal factors. During our initial consultation, we'll discuss your expectations and create a treatment plan tailored to you.

How often should I have laser hair removal?

Treatment intervals depend on the area and your hair growth cycle. Sessions are often scheduled approximately 4–8 weeks apart, but the right timing varies.

As your treatment progresses, I'll assess your results and adjust the schedule accordingly. There's no need to book sessions more frequently than your hair growth requires.

When will I start seeing results?

You may begin noticing reduced hair growth after your first few sessions.

Treated hairs don't necessarily shed straight away. This usually happens gradually over approximately 1–3 weeks.

Because hair grows in different stages, multiple sessions are needed to achieve more complete, long-lasting results.

How should I prepare for laser hair removal?

Proper preparation helps keep your treatment safe and effective.

You'll need to avoid tanning and hair removal methods that pull hair out from the root, such as waxing and tweezing. We'll also review your skincare products and medications, and I'll give you specific shaving instructions before your appointment.

You can find more information in my laser hair removal preparation guide.

What should I do after laser hair removal?

Your skin may be temporarily more sensitive after treatment, so it's important to avoid direct sun exposure, excessive heat, and activities that could cause additional irritation.

At the end of every appointment, I'll provide detailed verbal and written aftercare instructions tailored to your treatment area.

You can also refer to my laser hair removal aftercare guide.

Does laser hair removal hurt?

Everyone experiences laser differently. You may feel warmth, a mild snapping sensation, or brief discomfort, particularly in more sensitive areas.

The Sapphire Touch cooling system helps keep your skin comfortable during treatment. You're always welcome to tell me how you're feeling so I can adjust the procedure when needed.

Can I use numbing cream before laser hair removal?

Numbing cream usually isn't necessary, as the cooling system helps make treatment more comfortable.

I don't recommend applying a topical anesthetic without discussing it beforehand. These products have specific instructions and potential risks and should only be used with appropriate medical or pharmaceutical advice. If you're worried about discomfort, let me know before your appointment so we can discuss your options.

How long should I wait after waxing or tweezing before starting laser?

You'll need to allow enough time for hair to regrow after any method that removes it from the root. This is often around 4–6 weeks or longer, depending on the area and your individual growth cycle.

In the meantime, shaving is generally fine, provided your skin isn't irritated.

I'll help you determine the right time to schedule your first session.

Is my skin tone or hair color suitable for laser?

Laser hair removal works best when the hair contains enough melanin to absorb the laser energy.

Very light blonde, white, grey, and some red hair typically respond less effectively.

We can assess your skin and hair together. If laser isn't the best option, electrolysis may be a suitable alternative, as it doesn't rely on hair color.

Will my skin react after laser hair removal?

Mild redness, slight swelling around the follicles, or temporary sensitivity are common and usually settle within hours to a few days.

Can medications or health conditions affect my laser treatment?

Some medications, skin conditions, and health concerns may affect treatment safety or results.

Before we begin, I'll ask you to complete a detailed consultation form and assess your skin. In certain cases, medical clearance or advice from your treating doctor may be necessary.

You can also read my laser contraindications guide for more information.

Can laser hair removal help with hirsutism or PCOS?

Laser hair removal can significantly reduce unwanted hair growth in people with hirsutism or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

However, hormonal factors may affect the response and how long results last. Additional sessions or maintenance treatments may be required.

Laser addresses unwanted hair growth, not the underlying hormonal condition. Medical evaluation may also be important when appropriate.

Is there a minimum age for laser hair removal?

The suitability of laser hair removal at a younger age depends on physical development, hormonal changes, and individual needs. During adolescence, the hormonal profile has not yet stabilized, and the hormonal changes associated with puberty can stimulate new hair growth and the development of additional hair follicles.

For this reason, at Every Body, I do not recommend laser hair removal for anyone under the age of 18. For minors, I require consent from a parent or legal guardian and assess each case individually to determine whether starting treatment is appropriate.

Can I have laser hair removal during pregnancy?

Because the available evidence on the safety of cosmetic laser treatments during pregnancy is limited, I prefer to postpone laser hair removal sessions until after childbirth.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect hair growth and make treatment results less predictable.
And even though there is no established clinical evidence that laser hair removal is harmful during pregnancy, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes during this time. These hormonal fluctuations can trigger irregular hair growth, potentially making laser treatments less effective.

For this reason, I recommend waiting until your hormone levels have stabilized after childbirth before scheduling your laser hair removal sessions.

Can I have laser hair removal while taking isotretinoin (Accutane/Roaccutane)?

I'm sorry, but unfortunately, you cannot undergo laser hair removal while taking isotretinoin (such as Roaccutane). Isotretinoin can significantly increase skin sensitivity, making it more vulnerable to burns and irritation.

I recommend waiting at least 6 months after stopping Roaccutane before starting laser hair removal treatments.

Please make sure to inform me about your medication before booking an appointment. We will not proceed with treatment without a thorough, individualized assessment.

Can I use retinol, AHAs, or BHAs before laser hair removal?

Certain active skincare ingredients can make your skin more prone to irritation.

Before treatment, we'll review the products you're using, their strength, and where you apply them. If necessary, I'll give you individualized instructions on when to stop and restart them.

Can I have laser hair removal over a tattoo?

I don't apply hair removal laser directly over tattoos. The laser energy can interact with tattoo pigment, potentially causing burns or altering the tattoo's appearance.

I'll protect the tattooed area and maintain an appropriate safety margin during treatment.

If you'd like to remove hair from a fully healed tattoo, we can discuss whether electrolysis may be a suitable alternative.

Can laser hair removal be performed over moles?

Being dark, the moles have a higher concentration of melanin than the rest of the skin, so they will heat up more and there will be a greater risk of adverse effects. This is why I protected them before the application of the laser.

Small, lighter freckles, however, can receive the energy emitted by the diode laser and sometimes even tend to disappear after treatment.

Can I have a Brazilian laser treatment while I'm on my period?

Yes, menstruation itself is not a contraindication for laser hair removal.

As long as you feel comfortable and we can maintain appropriate hygiene during the session, by simply using a fresh tampon, there's no reason to postpone your appointment.

Just keep in mind that some people may experience increased skin sensitivity during their period.

I want to get waxed, but I'm embarrassed about my body. What should I do?

Come exactly as you are!

At Every Body, there's no room for judgment, stereotypes or unrealistic expectations about how a body should look.

I'm not concerned about your body's shape, size, hair growth or any other physical characteristic. What matters to me is that you feel safe, respected and comfortable receiving the care you've chosen.

You don't need to change your appearance for me. Your body is already welcome here.

Do I have to undress completely for a Brazilian laser hair removal?

For a Brazilian hair removal, you'll need to remove your clothing and underwear from the waist down so I can properly access the treatment area.

I understand that this may feel a little awkward, especially if it's your first visit. I'll explain the process, respect your privacy and do my best to help you feel comfortable.

I have extensive experience with intimate hair removal and approach every body professionally and without judgment.

What if I become aroused during a Brazilian wax?

Sometimes an involuntary physical response can happen during a treatment. There's no need to feel embarrassed.

As long as your behaviour remains appropriate and respectful, we can continue as normal.

However, sexual harassment, inappropriate comments or behaviour of any kind will not be tolerated. If this happens, the treatment will end immediately and no future bookings will be accepted.

These boundaries apply to everyone, regardless of gender or anatomy.

What if I see you outside the studio?

There's no need to feel awkward!

Your privacy and confidentiality are very important to me. I won't disclose to anyone that you visit Every Body or which services you receive.

If we happen to meet in public, it's entirely up to you whether you'd like to say hello or prefer not to acknowledge me.

Whether we exchange a quick smile or stop for a chat, I'll always respect your choice.

Explore more of my most popular questions and good-to-know answers.

Still have questions?

Contact me.