If you're thinking about laser hair removal, you might picture booking in spring, ready for summer. In fact, the best time to start is in autumn, so right now is ideal. Here's why, and how to plan your sessions for smooth skin when the sun comes back.
Start in autumn or winter
Most people need 6 to 10 sessions, spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart. Start in September or October and you'll be seeing a real difference by spring and early summer, just in time for holidays, shorts and sandals.
How each season compares
Autumn
Best timePaler skin and a full course done by summer.
Winter
GreatSkin is covered. Just plan around ski or sun trips.
Spring
GoodFine to start, but summer arrives mid-course.
Summer
With carePossible, especially for covered areas.
Why the sun matters so much
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in your hair. When your skin is tanned, it contains more pigment, so it can absorb some of the laser energy meant for the hair. That increases the risk of redness, irritation or changes in skin colour. That's why we ask you to follow four simple rules:
- 14days before each session: no sun exposure or sunbeds
- 0active tan or fake tan on the area being treated
- 14days after each session: avoid direct sun
- 50SPF on treated areas whenever they're in daylight
In autumn and winter, these rules are much easier to follow. Your skin is naturally paler, your legs and arms are covered, and you're less likely to be heading to the beach. It keeps your treatment on schedule, so you're not postponing sessions because of a tan. You can read all our advice in our pre and post care guide.
Other reasons autumn works well
Your skin is covered up
Any mild redness after a session is hidden under jumpers and jeans, not on show at the beach.
You're shaving anyway
Between sessions, you shave rather than wax or pluck. In winter, you're less likely to mind a little regrowth.
Fewer holidays to plan around
Summer holidays often mean skipped sessions. A steady rhythm through autumn and winter keeps you on track.
Results by summer
The laser only treats hairs in their active growth phase, so regular sessions matter. Results & sessions explained
What if I have a winter holiday?
Winter sun and ski trips both count. Snow reflects UV light strongly, so skiing can tan your skin just like a beach holiday. Let us know about any trips when you book, and we'll plan your sessions around them, keeping 14 days clear either side.
Can I start laser hair removal in summer?
Yes, you can. You just need to be more careful. Treated areas must be kept out of the sun, and some areas, such as the face, arms and legs, are harder to protect in summer. Areas that are usually covered, such as the underarms or bikini line, are often easier to treat year-round.
We'll talk through your plans at your consultation and let you know honestly whether it's a good time to start.
A sample timeline if you start this autumn
This is just a guide. Everyone's hair is different, and we'll create a personal plan for you.
- September – October
Free consultation and patch test, then your first session at least 48 hours later.
- November – December
Sessions 2 and 3. Most clients start to notice slower, finer regrowth.
- January – March
Sessions 4 to 6, spaced around your hair growth.
- Spring – summer
Smoother skin, with any remaining sessions booked around your holidays.
typical hair reduction by the end of a full course, with occasional top-up sessions to keep results consistent.
Planning for a special occasion?
If you have a wedding, big birthday or holiday coming up, start as early as you can. For brides, we recommend beginning 9 to 12 months before the wedding.
And whatever your skin tone, autumn is a great time to start. We use the Polaris Medical Nd:YAG laser, which is well suited to a wide range of skin tones, including darker skin (types IV to VI).
Ready to start this autumn?
Your consultation and patch test are free, with no pressure to book a course. We'll look at your skin and hair, talk through your plans for the year ahead, and build a timeline that works for you.
Luminier Laser Aesthetics is a private laser studio in Leighton Buzzard, welcoming clients from Linslade, Dunstable, Tring, Milton Keynes and Aylesbury.