Specials

Blog

Call us today at (559) 435-8477 and schedule a complimentary consultation!

Get In Touch

How Long Does It Take for Laser Hair Removal to Work?

Posted November 17, 2025 in Laser Hair Removal

Woman in white underwear laying on the floor

When you’re thinking about getting laser hair removal, timing is everything—especially if you’re prepping for a big event like a wedding, vacation, or summer season. So if you’re planning ahead, exactly how far in advance should you start laser hair removal treatment to achieve smooth, silky skin in the correct time frame? While laser hair removal provides long-term reduction in unwanted hair, the process takes time to complete. In this blog, we’ll answer some of your laser hair removal questions so you can enjoy soft, hair-free skin that’s ready to be shown off when it matters most.

4 Min Read:

Table of Contents

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

There are various types of laser hair removal devices, but at Aspire Medispa, we use the GentleLase Pro-U™ by CANDELA®. The GentleLase Pro-U™ device emits a concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment in your hair. This light energy is then converted to heat, damaging the hair follicle, which inhibits future growth.

To ensure you stay comfortable during your treatment, the GentleLase Pro-U™ sprays a burst of cooling cryogen onto your skin before each laser pulse, minimizing any potential discomfort and protecting the skin in the treatment area. The result is a laser hair removal treatment that’s not only highly effective but also gentle enough for sensitive skin.

The GentleLase Pro-U™ laser is most effective on people with lighter skin tones and darker hair.

When Will I See My Laser Hair Removal Results?

You may notice some immediate improvement after your first laser hair removal treatment, but significant results take time to develop. After each laser session, the treated hairs typically begin to shed within 1 to 3 weeks, and any new hair growth will appear finer and lighter.

However, the reason you will need multiple laser hair removal sessions to achieve optimal results is because not all hair is in the same stage of growth at the same time. Laser hair removal works best on hair in the active growth phase (anagen), which is the stage when the follicle is attached to the hair shaft and is the most pigmented. Because only some of your hair is in this stage at any given time, multiple sessions are required to effectively target all follicles in the treatment area.

Visible, long-lasting hair reduction is typically achieved after several laser sessions, with the skin becoming progressively smoother with each session.

How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Do I Need?

Most people need a series of 6 to 8 laser hair removal sessions spaced several weeks apart to maximize results. The exact number of treatments depends on several factors, including:

  • Hair color and thickness
  • Skin tone
  • Hormonal influences (such as PCOS or pregnancy-related changes to your hair)
  • Treatment area (smaller areas, like your upper lip, may need fewer sessions than an area like your back)

At Aspire Medispa, we will customize a treatment plan for you based on your unique hair growth patterns and aesthetic goals.

How Much Time Should I Wait Between Laser Hair Removal Sessions?

To ensure that each laser hair removal session targets new hairs entering the active growth phase, appointments are typically scheduled every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the area being treated. In general, you can expect your sessions to be scheduled as follows:

  • Face: every 4–6 weeks
  • Underarms, bikini line: every 6–8 weeks
  • Legs, back, chest: every 8–10 weeks

Following the timeline recommended by your provider is essential—spacing your sessions too close together won’t allow enough time for new hair to grow, while waiting too long between appointments may enable the follicles to fully regenerate. Consistency in your laser hair removal plan is key to achieving smooth, lasting results.

How Long Will My Laser Hair Removal Results Last?

After completing your full series of laser hair removal treatments, you can expect a permanent reduction in hair growth of 80–90%. Any remaining hair is typically much finer, lighter, and easier to manage. Many laser hair removal clients enjoy their results for years, though occasional maintenance sessions may be recommended to treat any new or dormant follicles that become active over time.

Your laser hair removal results can also last longer if you maintain a healthy skin care routine and avoid excessive sun exposure, which can affect pigment and sensitivity.

Schedule Your Laser Hair Removal in Fresno Today

Laser hair removal is one of the most effective ways to achieve smooth, beautiful skin with lasting results. However, planning ahead is crucial to ensure you start your laser hair removal treatments at least 6 months before your special occasion, allowing enough time for a complete treatment series and for your skin to look its best. To learn more and schedule your laser hair removal, call Aspire Medispa today at (559) 435-8477 or complete the online contact form.