Here’s What You Should Know Before Choosing Laser Hair Removal

Laser​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ hair removal is becoming the first choice for those who want to get rid of their body hair in the long term, but it is necessary to make a thoughtful decision before beginning the treatment. Although it is a generally accepted and verified procedure by the clinic, the result depends on a few factors that are outside the device used. Understanding the mechanism of the process, its reaction to the skin, and the necessity of the preview not only helps to have a clear view of the outcome but also promotes safer and more stable ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌results, explains Dr Meghna Gupta, MD Dermatology, Medical Director, Delhi Skin Centre, New Delhi, Mirea Clinics, Gurgaon.

Hair growth cycles determine results: As our hair grows in cycles, it is​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ important to understand that laser hair removal operates in stages rather than in a single ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌session. It is only effective to treat follicles when they are in their active growth stage. Since not all hair grows simultaneously, multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart are necessary to treat different follicles as they enter this phase. This is why consistent scheduling matters. Skipping sessions or spacing them too far apart can delay progress and reduce overall effectiveness.

Skin and hair type influence treatment planning: Laser hair removal results vary depending on skin tone and hair colour, which is why a proper clinical evaluation is essential before treatment begins. The technology targets pigment within the hair follicle, making darker hair more responsive to the procedure, while lighter or finer hair may require alternative approaches or adjusted expectations. The skin tone also has an effect since higher melanin levels need a more careful setting of the laser to prevent the area from getting red, inflamed, or causing any irritation. With advancements in technology, it is now possible to do the procedure more safely on a larger variety of skin tones, but it is still very important to adjust the treatment according to an individual's skin type and tone.

Preparation before each session matters: Proper preparation significantly affects both comfort and treatment outcomes. In clinics, the treatment area is shaved immediately before the laser session to ensure the device targets hair follicle beneath the skin rather than surface hair. Waxing, threading, or plucking should be avoided several weeks prior leading up to treatment, as these methods remove the hair follicle that the laser needs to target. Sun exposure must also be minimized, since tanned or sunburned skin increases the risk of sensitivity and pigmentation changes after treatment.

Comfort and recovery are part of the process: Usually, laser​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ hair removal is a procedure that works well on the skin. However, in some cases, it may cause mild redness or a feeling of warmth that occurs right after the treatment, especially in sensitive areas. These effects usually subside within a few hours. Most modern devices are equipped with a cooling system that not only makes the treatment more comfortable but also reduces the sensitivity of the treated area post-session. Advanced platforms such as the Soprano Titanium Special Edition use controlled energy delivery and continuous cooling to support safer treatment across different skin types, particularly in sensitive areas. Patients are recommended not to take hot showers, do intense workouts, and use active skincare products for at least 24 hours, since all these activities can further irritate the skin that has just been treated. Adhering to the aftercare schedule is not only important for keeping the skin's natural state but also for avoiding unnecessary ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌troubles.

Expect hair reduction, not complete removal: One must have real expectations when opting for laser hair removal. The method results in a significant reduction of the hair that is kept for a long time, and not the permanent removal of each hair follicle. In fact, hair that is allowed to grow after a certain period will be thinner, lighter in color, and the growth will be slower. There might be a need for some maintenance treatments once in a while, especially for those areas that are affected by ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌hormone changes. Understanding this distinction prevents disappointment and allows individuals to evaluate success based on improvement rather than perfection.

(Dr Meghna Gupta, MD Dermatology, Medical Director, Delhi Skin Centre, New Delhi, Mirea Clinics, Gurgaon.)

Published on: Sunday, January 25, 2026, 12:00 AM IST