Laser hair removal is one of the most effective ways to achieve long-term smoothness but it’s not a one-and-done treatment. One of the most common questions we hear at Evolution Laser Clinic is: “How many sessions will I need?”
The answer depends on your skin, hair type, and the area being treated but understanding how laser hair removal works can help set clear expectations and maximise your results.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal targets the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle using a focused beam of light. The light converts to heat, damaging the follicle to prevent future growth.
Because hair grows in cycles, anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting), the laser can only effectively target hairs in the active growth phase. That’s why multiple sessions are needed to capture all follicles as they cycle through.
At Evolution Laser Clinic, we use medical-grade laser technology designed for safety, precision, and effective results across a variety of skin and hair types.
Learn more about our laser hair removal treatments →
Why Multiple Laser Hair Removal Sessions Are Needed
Each hair grows at a different rate, and not all are in the same phase at the same time. On average, only 20–30% of hair is in the growth (anagen) phase during a given session, meaning many follicles escape treatment in any single visit. A 2022 review of laser and light-based hair reduction highlights that variations in hair growth cycles across different body sites are a key reason why multiple sessions are essential for long-term reduction of hair.By repeating treatments at regular intervals, your clinician can catch more hairs as they enter the anagen phase, gradually reducing overall growth. Consistency and correct spacing are critical to maximising effectiveness.
Factors That Affect the Number of Sessions
The number of laser sessions you’ll need depends on several factors, including:
- Hair colour and thickness: Dark, coarse hair responds best as it absorbs more light energy.
- Skin tone: Advanced dual-wavelength lasers can treat a wide range of skin tones safely.
- Hormones: Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or PCOS) can influence regrowth.
- Area of the body: Some areas, like legs or underarms, respond faster than others like the face or back.
- Consistency: Regular appointments at recommended intervals are essential for optimal results.
Average Number of Laser Hair Removal Sessions by Area
Every client is different, but most achieve visible, long-term results after 6 to 10 sessions.
Here’s a general guide:
| Treatment Area | Approximate Number of Sessions |
|---|---|
| Face (upper lip, chin) | 8–10 sessions |
| Underarms | 6–8 sessions |
| Legs | 6–10 sessions |
| Bikini/Brazilian | 6–8 sessions |
| Back or chest | 8–10 sessions |
After completing your initial course, maintenance sessions are recommended to keep your skin smooth and hair-free. These usually begin every 2–3 months, gradually extending to 4–6 months, and eventually 6–8 months as regrowth slows over time
This gradual schedule ensures your results continue to improve and helps maintain silky, confident skin all year round.
How Often Should You Have Laser Hair Removal?
Sessions are usually spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart for facial areas and 4 to 6 weeks apart for body areas. This timing allows the hair to re-enter the active growth phase so the laser can target it effectively.
Delaying sessions too long can reduce efficiency, as more hairs move into the resting phase and escape treatment.
What to Expect After Each Session
Immediately after treatment, it’s normal for skin to feel warm or slightly red, similar to mild sun exposure. Your clinician will apply Laser Soothe from our evolveMD skincare range to calm and hydrate the treated area.
Post-treatment care is simple:
- Avoid heat, exercise, and sun exposure for 7 days.
- Skip active skincare (AHAs, BHAs, retinol) for a few days.
- Use gentle moisturisers and SPF daily.
- After 5–7 days, gently exfoliate with charcoal scrub to help loosen and remove treated hairs as they shed naturally.
The treated hair will shed naturally over 1–2 weeks.
Tips to Maximise Your Laser Hair Removal Result
To get the most out of your sessions:
- Shave 24 hours before treatment, never wax or pluck.
- Stay consistent with your booking schedule.
- Avoid sun exposure, tanning (including fake tan), and solarium use for at least 14 days before and after treatment.
- Use Sun Protection daily to protect treated areas.
- Communicate openly with your clinician about any changes in medication or skin condition.
Explore our aftercare essentials →
When Will You See Permanent Results?
You’ll likely notice smoother skin and reduced regrowth after just a few sessions. By the end of your full course, most clients experience up to 90% reduction in hair growth, depending on the treatment area and consistency and individual circumstances.
Occasional maintenance treatments help prolong smooth, long-lasting results.
Is Laser Hair Removal Worth It Long-Term?
Absolutely. While laser hair removal requires multiple sessions upfront, the long-term benefits far outweigh the ongoing costs and hassle of shaving or waxing. You’ll enjoy smoother skin, fewer ingrown hairs, and lasting confidence, all with minimal upkeep.
Final Thoughts: Creating Your Personal Treatment Plan
Every body and every hair type is unique and so is your laser journey. The best way to know how many sessions you need is through a professional consultation.
At Evolution Laser Clinic, we’ll assess your skin, explain the treatment process, and create a plan tailored to your goals.
