Introduction
Tired of constantly shaving, waxing, or plucking unwanted hair? Laser hair removal (LHR) offers a long-term solution, but many people ask:
“How many sessions do I actually need for permanent hair reduction?”
The short answer: It varies based on your skin type, hair colour, and the area being treated. Most patients require 6-10 sessions, but factors like hormones and hair growth cycles can affect the number of treatments needed.
At Hampstead Aesthetics, we use advanced laser technology to deliver safe and effective hair removal for clients in West Hampstead, Hampstead, Swiss Cottage, Camden, Primrose Hill, Belsize Park, St John’s Wood, Queen’s Park, and Finchley Road.
et’s break down exactly how many sessions you’ll need for smooth, hair-free skin.
Understanding Laser Hair Removal
What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light to target and remove unwanted hair. The laser emits light absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair, which then heats and damages the hair follicles. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth, making it an effective method for long-term hair reduction. Laser hair removal can effectively reduce hair growth by up to 90%. While laser hair removal is most effective for individuals with light skin and dark hair, advancements in technology have made it suitable for all skin types. However, it’s important to note that while laser hair removal significantly delays hair growth, it doesn’t always result in permanent hair removal. Multiple sessions are typically required to achieve the desired results, and maintenance treatments may be necessary to keep hair regrowth at bay.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Laser hair removal treatment works by targeting the pigment (melanin) in hair follicles with a concentrated light beam. This energy heats and destroys the hair follicle, preventing future growth.
The Hair Growth Cycle & Why Multiple Sessions Are Needed
Hair grows in three cycles:
1️⃣ Anagen (Active Growth Phase) – Hair is connected to the follicle and absorbs laser energy best.
2️⃣ Catagen (Transition Phase) – Hair detaches from the follicle; laser treatment is less effective.
3️⃣ Telogen (Resting Phase) – Hair sheds, and new hair begins growing.
🔬 Scientific Evidence: A 2024 study in the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery found that laser hair removal is 80-90% effective when performed over multiple sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
💡 Why multiple treatments? Laser treatments only work on hair in the anagen phase, meaning several sessions are needed to target all follicles at the right time.
How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Do You Need?
Face (Upper Lip, Chin, Jawline, Sideburns)
✔ 6-12 sessions
✔ Touch-ups every 6-12 months. The results of laser hair removal can last several months to years, but some individuals may require maintenance treatments.
📌 Facial hair is often influenced by hormones, meaning more sessions may be required for hormonal areas like the chin or jawline. Additionally, the number of sessions needed can vary based on hair and skin colour, as individuals with darker hair and lighter skin typically see faster results, while those with darker skin may require more sessions due to the specific laser types used.
Underarms
✔ 6-8 sessions
✔ Touch-ups every 12-18 months
📌 Underarm hair responds well to laser because it is coarse and dark, making it easier to destroy follicles. However, hair colour can affect the number of sessions needed, with darker, coarser hair typically requiring fewer sessions compared to lighter hair.
Bikini Line & Brazilian
✔ 6-10 sessions
✔ Touch-ups every 12-24 months
📌 Coarser hair in the bikini area often requires additional sessions, especially if you opt for a full Brazilian treatment.
Legs (Full or Half)
✔ 6-10 sessions
✔ Touch-ups every 2-3 years
📌 Lower legs respond faster due to denser hair, while thighs may need more sessions due to finer hair.
Arms & Hands
✔ 6-10 sessions
✔ Touch-ups every 2-3 years
📌 Arm hair is often finer than leg or underarm hair, meaning results can take slightly longer.
Back & Chest (For Men)
✔ 8-12 sessions
✔ Touch-ups every 12-24 months
📌 Male chest and back hair is often thicker and denser, requiring more sessions than smaller areas.
🔬 Scientific Evidence: A 2025 study in the British Journal of Dermatology found that men typically need 2-3 more laser hair removal sessions than women due to thicker, coarser hair.
Factors That Affect the Number of Sessions Needed
Not everyone needs the same number of treatments. Your skin type, hair colour, hormones, and genetics all play a role. After completing laser hair removal treatments, hair regrowth is usually finer and lighter in colour.
📌 Hair Colour & Skin Tone – Dark hair on light skin responds best. Light or grey hair is harder to treat. For individuals with recently tanned skin, using a skin bleaching cream can help achieve a lighter complexion, making the treatment more effective.
📌 Hormonal Imbalances – Conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) can cause excess hair growth.
📌 Area Being Treated – Coarse hair needs fewer sessions, while fine hair takes longer.
📌 Laser Technology Used – Alexandrite, Diode, and Nd:YAG lasers all target different skin and hair types.
Laser hair removal works best on dark hair and light skin due to the contrast that allows the laser to target hair follicles effectively.
💡 **Pro Tip:**For stubborn areas like the chin or bikini line, combining laser hair removal with hormonal treatments can improve results.
📍 Not sure how many sessions you’ll need? Book a consultation at Hampstead Aesthetics today!
Hormonal Factors and Excessive Hair Growth
Hormonal imbalances or changes can significantly impact hair growth, leading to excessive hair growth in certain areas of the body. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hirsutism are common culprits that cause excessive hair growth, making laser hair removal a popular treatment option for managing these conditions. Hormonal changes can also influence the number of laser hair removal sessions needed, as individuals with hormonal imbalances may require more sessions to achieve optimal results. By targeting the hair follicles, laser hair removal can help manage excessive hair growth, providing a long-term solution for those affected by hormonal influences. You should avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks before your treatment.
Treatment Area and Preparation
Treatment Area
Laser hair removal is a versatile treatment that can be performed on nearly every part of the body, including the face, legs, armpits, upper lip, chin, and bikini line. The number of sessions required varies depending on the treatment area. For instance, facial hair often requires more frequent sessions due to its finer texture and hormonal influences, while larger areas like the back or legs may need more sessions due to the larger surface area and coarser hair. It’s crucial to choose a board-certified doctor specializing in dermatology or cosmetic surgery with experience in laser hair removal for your specific skin type. Scheduling a consultation with a qualified professional will help determine if laser hair removal is the right treatment for you and allow you to discuss a personalized treatment plan and associated costs. It is recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF30 daily after treatment.
What to Expect After Each Laser Hair Removal Session
Many patients ask: “When will I see results?”
📌 After 1-2 sessions: Hair grows back thinner and slower.
📌 After 4-6 sessions: Significant hair reduction is visible.
📌 After 8-10 sessions: Up to 90% of hair follicles are destroyed, leaving smooth skin. Many people experience prolonged periods of hair reduction after just a few sessions of laser hair removal.
🔬 Scientific Evidence: A 2023 study in the Journal of Clinical Aesthetic Dermatology found that patients who completed a full course of laser hair removal saw an 85% reduction in hair growth within 12 months.
FAQs – How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Do You Need?
| Question | Answer |
| Can I get laser hair removal in fewer than 6 sessions? | Most patients need 6-10 sessions for permanent hair reduction. Fewer sessions may lead to patchy regrowth. |
| Why do some areas need more sessions than others? | Hormonal areas like the face, chest, and bikini require more treatments due to active hair follicles. |
| Does laser hair removal work on all hair colors? | Dark hair responds best. Blonde, grey, and red hair may not absorb laser energy well. |
| How long between each session? | 4-6 weeks for facial areas, 6-8 weeks for body treatments. This allows new hairs to enter the anagen phase. |
| How do I know when I’ve completed my laser hair removal sessions? | When hair regrowth is minimal or patchy, you may need only occasional touch-ups. |
| Is laser hair removal permanent? | It provides permanent hair reduction, but occasional touch-ups may be needed due to hormones. |
| Can I shave between sessions? | Yes! Shaving is allowed, but avoid waxing or plucking, as these remove the follicle before the laser can target it. |
| Does laser hair removal work for PCOS-related hair growth? | Yes! But more sessions are needed, as hormonal hair growth is stronger. |
| How important is preparation for laser hair removal treatment? | Preparation is crucial for effective laser hair removal treatment. Shave the area before the session and avoid sun exposure to enhance the treatment’s effectiveness and achieve better results. |
Final Thoughts – How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Do You Really Need?
Laser hair removal is an effective, long-term solution for smooth, hair-free skin, but the number of sessions varies depending on your hair type, skin type, and treatment area.
📌 Face: 6-12 sessions
📌 Underarms: 6-8 sessions
📌 Bikini/Brazilian: 6-10 sessions
📌 Legs & Arms: 6-10 sessions
📌 Back & Chest: 8-12 sessions
Most patients see major hair reduction by session 6 and achieve permanent results after 8-10 sessions, with occasional touch-ups every 1-2 years.
🔗 Book your laser hair removal consultation today and find out how many sessions you need!
📅 BOOK YOUR LASER HAIR REMOVAL NOW 🚀
Why Choose Hampstead Aesthetics for Laser Hair Removal in London?
At Hampstead Aesthetics, we offer advanced laser hair removal treatments, providing a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution for unwanted hair. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Chike Emeagi MBBS, MRCGP, MRCS-Ed, MSc, MBA, a GMC-registered aesthetic doctor and Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, we provide:
✅ State-of-the-art laser technology for fast, precise, and comfortable treatments.
✅ Safe for all skin types, with customized settings to suit your needs.
✅ Clinically proven, long-term hair reduction for silky-smooth skin.
✅ Minimal discomfort and no downtime, so you can return to your routine immediately.
A highly respected trainer and speaker in aesthetic medicine, Dr. Emeagi also brings his expertise to:
✅ Trainer/Speaker: Stylage (Vivacy) | ✅ Trainer: DermaMedical | ✅ Faculty/Trainer: MINT PDO Threads
✨ Book your consultation today and enjoy smooth, hair-free skin with Laser Hair Removal at Hampstead Aesthetics! ✨
