The holidays will be here before you know it, and if you’re wanting to achieve smoother, hair-free skin in time for Christmas or New Year’s festivities, you’ll want to start planning now. That’s because laser hair removal (LHR) requires multiple treatment sessions since each treatment targets only the hair that is in its active growth phase. Not all hair follicles will be in this stage of growth at the same time, which is why several treatments are needed for optimal results.
So if you’re looking to flaunt smooth skin in time for the holidays, it’s best to start your first treatment in the fall. Here’s a comprehensive laser hair removal timeline to help you start planning your pre-holiday LHR treatments.
First Treatment: Early Fall
The best time to start your first laser hair removal treatment to have results in time for Christmas is around early October. After your first treatment, you may not notice significant results immediately, but you should begin to see some changes in hair growth and shedding in the weeks that follow. Each session builds on the progress of the last, so getting started early will help you reach your goals by winter.
It is important to note that you will need to avoid sun exposure in between LHR treatments – which is another reason why fall and winter are great times to schedule laser skin treatments.
Second Treatment: Mid- to Late Fall
Each treatment session is spaced 4 to 6 weeks after the previous session, so if you have your first treatment in October, you should be ready to have your second session in early November. By this time, your hair will have completed a full growth cycle, allowing the laser to effectively target hair follicles that were in a dormant stage of growth during your previous session.
After your second session, you should begin to notice less hair regrowth and thinning hair in the treated areas.
Third Treatment: Early Winter
Your third treatment, scheduled for early December, will bring you even closer to being hair-free for the holidays. After this session, you should see a more significant reduction in hair regrowth and overall smoothness. While the process is still ongoing, this is the point when many people notice the most dramatic change in hair texture and density.
Since you’ll likely have at least three treatments before the holiday season, you can enjoy smoother skin in time for parties and events. However, it’s important to keep up with additional sessions in the coming months to maximize your laser hair removal results.
How Many Total Laser Hair Treatments Will I Need?
Most people need 6 to 8 LHR treatments for complete hair removal, depending on factors like hair thickness, color and the area being treated. However, after your third session, you should be able to see significant results. After the holidays, you can continue your treatments and enjoy smooth, hair-free skin into the new year.
Ready to Start Your Laser Hair Removal Journey?
If you’re looking to flaunt smooth, hair-free skin this holiday season, now is the time to start. Call our Tampa office at 813-877-8067 or contact us online to schedule your laser hair removal consultation today to ensure you’re ready for the season ahead!
Author: Caroll Delo, CCE, CME
Lead aesthetician and co-owner of Simply Smooth, Caroll Delo has over a decade of experience in cosmetic surgery, laser treatments, and medical grade skincare services. Her vast knowledge in cosmetic medicine helps make sure that every man and woman who enters our doors receives top-quality care and expertise.