Unwanted body hair can be hard to manage, especially when shaving, plucking or waxing becomes a time-consuming part of your regular routine. While these methods provide temporary results, they often require frequent maintenance and may cause skin irritation for some individuals.
Laser hair removal offers a longer-lasting way to reduce unwanted hair growth. Over a series of treatments, it can slow hair regrowth, reduce hair density and leave the treated area smoother with less frequent maintenance.
Understanding what the treatment involves and what results to expect can help you decide whether it may be suitable for your needs.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a medical aesthetic treatment that provides long-term hair reduction for unwanted facial and body hair. Unlike shaving, waxing or plucking, laser hair removal works beneath the skin's surface to reduce future hair growth over time.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Laser hair removal works by directing a specific wavelength of light into the hair. This light is absorbed by melanin, the pigment that gives hair its colour, and is converted into heat. The heat damages the hair follicle, which can slow or delay future hair growth. The laser is designed to target pigment in the hair while limiting effects on the surrounding skin.
Hair grows in three phases: active (anagen), transitional (catagen) and resting (telogen). Laser treatment is most effective during the active growth phase, when the hair remains attached to the follicle. Since not all hairs are in the same phase at the same time, treatment is carried out over multiple sessions to target different hairs as they enter active growth.
Which Areas Can Be Treated with Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal can be used on many areas of the face and body where long-term hair reduction is desired.
Common treatment areas include:
Legs
: Both the upper and lower legs can be treated, reducing the need for frequent shaving or waxing.Arms and Underarms
: Treatment can help reduce visible stubble and underarm hair growth.Torso
: The chest, back and abdomen are commonly treated areas for both men and women.Bikini Area
: Many individuals choose laser hair removal for the bikini line to reduce unwanted hair and simplify grooming.Face
: Areas such as the upper lip, chin and jawline can be treated with precision to address unwanted facial hair.
What Happens During the Laser Hair Removal Process?
Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable before your upcoming appointment. The process typically follows a logical, structured path from your first visit to your aftercare routine.
Consultation
Laser hair removal usually begins with a consultation. The doctor will review your medical history, assess your skin type and examine your hair growth to determine suitable laser settings for your skin and treatment area.
Before your appointment, you will usually be advised to shave the treatment area within the previous 12–24 hours. Unlike waxing or plucking, shaving leaves the hair follicle intact so the laser can effectively target it. You should also avoid waxing, plucking or using depilatory creams for several weeks before treatment, as these remove the hair needed for the laser to work effectively.
Your doctor will also discuss realistic expectations, advise you to minimise sun exposure before treatment and may perform a small patch test to assess how your skin responds to the laser. If the treatment area is sunburnt, irritated or affected by an active skin infection, treatment may be postponed until the skin has recovered.
During the Procedure
On the day of treatment, the skin will be cleansed before the laser is applied. Both you and the practitioner will wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light.
As the laser device is pressed against the skin, you may feel a sensation similar to a quick rubber band snap or a warm prickle. Many modern laser systems have a built-in cooling tip to soothe the skin and minimise discomfort.
The length of the session depends entirely on the size of the treatment area. Small areas take a few minutes, while a full back may take up to an hour.
After the Procedure
After treatment, you may notice mild redness or swelling in the treated area, similar to a light sunburn. This is common and usually settles within a few hours. Soothing gels such as aloe vera may be applied to calm the skin.
You should avoid direct sun exposure and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Your doctor may also advise avoiding hot showers, saunas, exfoliation and harsh skin products, as well as intense physical activity for the first 24–48 hours.
Over the next few weeks, the treated hairs will gradually loosen and fall out. Your next session will be scheduled after a specific interval, allowing the next cycle of hair to enter the active growth phase.
Who May Not Be Suitable for Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal can be effective for many individuals seeking long-term hair reduction. Treatment outcomes depend on factors such as skin tone, hair colour, hair thickness and the type of laser used. Your doctor will assess these factors to determine whether the treatment is suitable for you.
While laser hair removal is suitable for many people, it may not be recommended for:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- Individuals with active skin infections, cold sores or inflammation in the treatment area.
- People with a history of keloid scarring.
- Those with very light blonde, grey or white hair, as the laser needs pigment to target the follicle.
- Patients taking certain photosensitive medications.
Take the Next Step Towards Long-Term Hair Reduction with Dr Vanessa Phua
Laser hair removal can be an effective option for individuals seeking longer-term reduction of unwanted facial or body hair. However, the most suitable treatment approach depends on factors such as your skin tone, hair colour, medical history and treatment goals.
At our aesthetic clinic in Singapore, we provide personalised laser hair removal treatments based on a comprehensive assessment of your skin and hair characteristics. Dr Vanessa Phua, our registered laser physician, carefully selects the appropriate laser technology and treatment settings to maximise effectiveness while prioritising patient comfort and safety. Each treatment plan is tailored to your individual concerns, treatment area and desired outcomes.
If you are considering laser hair removal in Singapore, book a consultation with us today to find out whether the treatment is suitable for your needs.
