Laser Hair Removal: What to Expect Before, During, and After

Laser hair removal can help you get that clean, smooth look you’ve dreamed of. Image by Freepik

Hair is a natural part of the human body, but it’s common for many people to remove unwanted hair for aesthetic or health reasons. When permanent hair removal is needed, laser hair removal is the treatment that shines for staying smooth.

Unlike shaving and waxing, laser treatment is designed to remove hair almost permanently. In a short series of clinic sessions, you can reduce hair regrowth long-term, cutting down on stubble, ingrowns, and constant upkeep.

But before going for your first session, it’s best to know exactly what to expect before, during, and after treatment, along with how to prepare. Let’s get into it.

What laser hair removal entails

Laser hair removal treatment uses concentrated light to target pigment in hair follicles, damaging them to slow or stop regrowth. Nowadays, many treatment options use systems and platforms, such as diode, Nd:YAG lasers, and Cutera Xeo, for long-lasting results and quicker sessions.

That said, while most people seek permanent hair removal, most procedures are less of a laser to remove hair permanently and more of a long-term reduction. This means maintenance is needed over time to maintain the smooth, hairless look.

What to expect from your session

Like other aesthetic procedures, laser hair removal requires some preparation and aftercare for the smoothest outcomes. Image by Freepik

Before the process

Before you begin laser hair treatment, you need to get the treatment area ready.

2–4 weeks prior
- Avoid waxing, tweezing, epilators, or threading (these remove the follicle the laser needs to target).
- Limit sun exposure and tanning beds; use SPF on exposed areas.
3–5 days prior
- Pause strong actives on the treatment area (retinoids, strong acids) unless your clinician advises otherwise.
24 hours prior
- Shave the treatment area so the laser can reach the follicle efficiently.
- Show up with clean, product-free skin (no deodorant, makeup, body oils, or self-tanner).

Important:This is the stage to tell your provider about medications (especially photosensitizing drugs) and any history of keloids, active infections, or pregnancy/breastfeeding.

During your appointment

Once preparations are complete, it’s time for the treatment process.

Consultation & skin assessment
Your practitioner reviews your skin type, hair color/diameter, medical history, and treatment goals, then selects settings accordingly.
Test spot & eye protection
A quick test pulse checks comfort/response. You’ll wear protective eyewear.
Laser passes
The handpiece delivers light in measured pulses. Most people describe the sensation as a quick snap with warmth; cooling tips/air help keep skin comfortable.
Immediate post-care
Mild redness or follicular bumps are common and typically subside within hours.

Depending on the area being treated and the equipment used, the procedure can take between 10 minutes (upper lip/underarms) and 45–60 minutes (legs/back).

Aftercare: what to do (and avoid)

After the procedure, some aftercare is necessary:

First 24–48 hours
- Keep the area cool; avoid hot showers, saunas, and vigorous workouts.
- Use a bland moisturizer or aloe gel as advised.
- Skip exfoliation, fragrances, and deodorant on treated skin for a day (underarm treatments).
First week
- Continue daily SPF on exposed areas.
- Do not pluck or wax between sessions. Stick to shaving only.
- Expect “shedding” (treated hairs releasing) within 1–3 weeks; this is normal.

Fortunately, you don’t have to make big changes to your daily lifestyle to maintain proper care.

How many sessions are needed?

Hair grows in cycles, which means laser hair removal works best in the active (anagen) phase. This is why a series is needed:

Typical plan: 6–8 sessions, spaced 4–8 weeks apart depending on the body area and hair cycle.
Maintenance sessions: ~1–2 times per year to help sustain permanent hair removal-level smoothness over time.

You should see progressive thinning and slower regrowth after each visit.

Get laser hair removal done with Suisse Clinic today!

Hair is a natural part of our bodies, but so are unwanted hairs, which can feel both inconvenient and unsightly. Fortunately, you don’t have to keep shaving or waxing, as laser hair removal can keep your skin looking smooth and hairless for the long term—all with quick sessions and minimal downtime.

Cue Suisse Clinic, where our LCP-certified doctors use proven platforms such as Cutera Xeo and personalised plans to deliver safe and consistent outcomes for laser hair removal in Malaysia. With us, we help you achieve smooth, low-maintenance skin and meet your aesthetic goals with none of the hassle.

Ready to start? Book a consultation with us today and experience the best of our expertise in permanent hair removal in Malaysia, available at Mid Valley Southpoint and Sunway Pyramid.

FAQs

How long do laser results last?

It depends on the treatment and concern. Pigmentation can last months to years (with sun protection). Melasma needs touch-ups every 3–6 months. Acne scars last for years, and hair removal typically needs a touch-up every 6–18 months.

How many laser sessions will I need?

Most people need 3–6 sessions, but simpler issues like sun spots or small veins may only need 3–4. For more complex concerns like melasma or acne scars, you can expect around 5–6 sessions to get the ideal outcomes.

What is the downtime like?

You may experience mild redness or sensitivity, but most patients return to their daily routines quickly, usually within a few hours to 1–2 days.

Is skin laser treatment permanent?

Not quite. Pigment can return (especially melasma) without proper care and maintenance. Scar and texture improvements are stable, but aging still happens. As for laser hair removal, it is best described as a long-term reduction rather than being truly permanent.