When Is the Best Time of Year to Start Laser Hair Removal?
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Laser hair removal is one of the most effective and long-lasting ways to reduce unwanted hair. But timing matters—starting your sessions at the right time of year can make all the difference in both comfort and results.
So, when is the best time to begin laser hair removal? Let’s break it down.
The Short Answer: Fall & Winter Are Best
While you can technically start laser hair removal any time of year, fall and winter are widely considered the ideal seasons to begin treatment. Here’s why:
1. Reduced Sun Exposure = Safer Treatment
Laser hair removal works by targeting pigment (melanin) in the hair follicle. The more contrast between your skin and hair colour, the more effective—and safer—the treatment will be. That’s why sun exposure should be minimised before and after your sessions.
In the fall and winter, you're more likely to:
Spend less time in the sun
Wear more clothing, protecting your skin from UV exposure
Avoid tanning (which can increase risk of hyperpigmentation)
This makes your skin less sensitive and less likely to experience complications like burns or discolouration during the process.
2. Time to Complete the Full Series Before Summer
Laser hair removal isn’t a one-and-done procedure. Hair grows in cycles, and lasers can only treat follicles that are in the active growth phase (anagen). That means:
Most people need 6 to 8 sessions
Sessions are spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart
Starting in the fall or winter gives you time to complete your series by spring or early summer, just in time to enjoy smoother skin when it matters most—without shaving, waxing, or stubble.
3. Easier to Avoid Tanning and Sunburn
After each session, your skin may be slightly sensitive or red. Avoiding direct sunlight is crucial during this healing time. During summer, that can be tough. But in cooler months, your skin is usually covered, making post-treatment care much easier.
4. More Comfortable Clothing Options
Post-laser, your skin may feel a little tender. In colder months, loose sweaters and cozy loungewear are more comfortable on treated areas compared to tight swimsuits or workout gear in the summer.
Can You Start in Spring or Summer?
Yes—but with extra caution. If you do start in warmer months:
Avoid tanning (sun or fake tan) before and after sessions
Wear SPF 30+ daily, especially on exposed areas
Be diligent with aftercare instructions
Cover treated areas when outdoors
Some clinics may adjust the laser settings or delay treatments if your skin has too much recent sun exposure.
Who Should Consider Seasonal Timing the Most?
While everyone can benefit from planning laser hair removal around the cooler months, certain people should be especially mindful:
Those with lighter skin and darker hair (best candidates for laser): still need to avoid sun to reduce risks.
Those with deeper skin tones: newer laser technologies make treatment safe, but sun exposure can still increase sensitivity or cause pigment changes.
People treating large or frequently exposed areas: like legs, arms, or face—these areas are harder to keep out of the sun in summer.
✅ Best Time to Start: Fall and winter
🚫 Less Ideal (but still possible): Spring and summer—with precautions
By starting your laser hair removal journey in the cooler months, you’ll have smoother skin, fewer side effects, and the convenience of being hair-free by the time summer rolls around.
Thinking about booking your first session? Start now—and thank yourself when you're carefree and razor-free come beach season.
