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Why Is Autumn the Best Time to Start Laser Hair Removal?

Less sun exposure, more time for a treatment course, and smoother skin by next summer

As summer draws to a close, many of us return to our usual routines and begin considering skincare treatments we may have postponed during the warmer months. One of these is laser hair removal – a long-term solution for reducing unwanted hair growth.

Although laser hair removal can be performed throughout the year, autumn is a particularly suitable time to begin a course of treatments. There are several practical reasons for this: reduced sun exposure, easier skin protection, and enough time to complete several sessions before the following summer.

But why does sun exposure matter so much? Why is a single session not enough? And what should you know before your first laser hair removal treatment?

Let's explore the process step by step.

1. How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal is based on the selective delivery of light energy to the hair follicle.

The light emitted by the laser is absorbed by melanin – the pigment responsible for hair colour. This absorbed energy is converted into heat, which affects the structures of the hair follicle and reduces its ability to produce new hair.

Unlike shaving, which simply removes hair at the skin's surface, laser hair removal aims to achieve a long-lasting reduction in hair growth.

However, the results depend on several factors, including hair colour and thickness, skin phototype, treatment area, hormonal characteristics, and the technology used.

Darker hair generally responds best to laser hair removal because it contains more melanin. Lighter hair, on the other hand, responds significantly less effectively to laser energy.

2. Why Is Autumn Particularly Suitable for Laser Hair Removal?

One of the most important factors in safe laser hair removal is the condition of the skin before treatment.

During summer, the skin is more frequently exposed to intense ultraviolet radiation. Tanning increases the amount of melanin in the skin, which can affect how laser energy is absorbed.

When the skin has recently been tanned, some of the laser energy may also be absorbed by the epidermis rather than primarily by the hair structures. This increases the risk of unwanted reactions, including burns and changes in pigmentation.

As sunlight becomes less intense and the main tanning season comes to an end, autumn provides more favourable conditions for beginning a laser hair removal course.

3. Why Does Laser Hair Removal Require a Course of Treatments?

Laser hair removal results develop gradually, and there is a scientific explanation for this – the hair growth cycle. Although hair may appear to grow continuously, each follicle follows its own cycle. At any given time, hairs within the same treatment area are at different stages of development, and not all are equally responsive to laser energy.

The hair growth cycle is generally divided into three main phases, although a more detailed classification also identifies a fourth – the shedding phase.

• Anagen Phase – Active Growth. During this stage, the hair is actively growing and remains connected to the follicle's growth structures. This is the most favourable phase for laser hair removal because melanin in the hair absorbs laser energy and converts it into heat, which can effectively damage the follicular structures responsible for hair growth.

• Catagen Phase – Transition. Hair growth stops, the follicle begins to shrink, and the lower part of the hair gradually loses its connection to the structures responsible for growth. Laser treatment is generally less effective during this phase.

• Telogen Phase – Resting. The follicle enters a relatively inactive state, and active hair production temporarily stops. The effectiveness of laser hair removal is limited during this stage.

• Exogen Phase – Shedding. The old hair separates from the follicle and falls out, making way for a new hair. This process is sometimes considered the final stage of the telogen phase rather than a completely separate phase.

Laser hair removal is most effective during the anagen phase, but only a proportion of hairs are in this stage during any single treatment. Repeated sessions are therefore necessary to gradually target additional follicles as they enter the active growth phase.

Following the correct intervals between treatments is equally important. These intervals vary depending on the treatment area because hair growth rates differ across the body.

Typical intervals between laser hair removal sessions:

• Face: approximately 4–6 weeks.

• Underarms and bikini area: approximately 4–8 weeks.

• Legs, arms, and larger body areas: approximately 6–8 weeks, sometimes longer.

These intervals are guidelines rather than fixed rules. The specialist adjusts them according to hair regrowth, treatment results, and the technology used. As the course progresses, intervals may become longer because hair growth gradually decreases.

To achieve a noticeable and long-lasting reduction in hair growth, 6–8 sessions are often recommended, although the exact number varies from person to person. Factors such as the treatment area, hair thickness and pigmentation, hormonal influences, and individual response to laser energy all play a role.

Successful laser hair removal therefore depends not only on the technology used but also on a carefully planned treatment course.

4. Can Laser Hair Removal Help with Ingrown Hairs?

Ingrown hairs are a common concern, particularly among those who regularly shave or wax.

They occur when a growing hair fails to emerge properly through the skin's surface and instead grows beneath or back into the skin. This can lead to redness, inflammation, and painful bumps.

Because laser hair removal reduces hair growth over time, it may also help decrease the frequency of ingrown hairs.

This is particularly relevant for the bikini area, underarms, and legs.

However, if ingrown hairs cause significant or recurring inflammation, consulting a dermatologist before treatment is recommended.

5. How Should You Prepare for Your First Laser Hair Removal Session?

Proper preparation is just as important as the treatment itself.

Avoid tanning

Before laser hair removal, avoid intense sun exposure and tanning beds. Treatment should not be performed on sunburned skin. If you have a tan, the specialist will assess when it is safe to proceed.

Do not remove hair from the root

Waxing, epilators, and tweezers should be avoided in the treatment area before and throughout the laser hair removal course.

These methods remove hair from the follicle, reducing the laser's ability to effectively target the relevant structures.

It is generally recommended to stop removing hair from the root at least four weeks before the first session.

Shave the treatment area

Unlike waxing, laser hair removal generally requires the treatment area to be shaved beforehand.

This helps the laser energy act on the hair structures within the skin rather than on long hairs above the surface.

The specialist will advise you on the exact timing, although shaving approximately one day before treatment is often recommended.

Inform your specialist about medications and skin conditions

Certain medications and skincare products can increase sensitivity to light or affect the skin's response to treatment.

Before your session, inform the specialist about any medications you are taking, recent aesthetic treatments, skin conditions, and previous reactions to laser procedures.

6. What Should You Do After Laser Hair Removal?

After treatment, the skin may experience mild redness, sensitivity, or swelling around the hair follicles. These reactions are usually temporary.

To support skin recovery:

• Avoid intense sun exposure and tanning beds.

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30–50 to exposed areas.

• During the first few days, avoid excessive heat, saunas, and vigorous skin friction, following your specialist's instructions.

• Use gentle skincare products.

• Do not wax, tweeze, or use an epilator between treatments.

Hair does not necessarily disappear immediately after laser hair removal. Some treated hairs gradually shed from the skin over the following days and weeks.

7. Laser Hair Removal at BABOR Beauty Spa in Riga

BABOR Beauty Spa offers professional laser hair removal using Primelase laser technology.

Before treatment, the condition of the skin and hair, along with individual needs, is assessed to determine the most suitable treatment approach.

Laser hair removal can be performed on various areas of the body, including the legs, underarms, bikini area, and other suitable areas where unwanted hair growth is a concern.

Why Shouldn't You Wait Until Spring?

Laser hair removal is a gradual process rather than a one-time treatment. Achieving long-lasting hair reduction requires time and regular sessions.

Starting in autumn makes it easier to plan a treatment course, avoid intense sun exposure, and prepare for the next warm season.

Autumn is an ideal time to begin working towards smoother skin for next summer.

Book your laser hair removal treatment at BABOR Beauty Spa, 9 Ģertrūdes Street, Riga, and begin a personalised treatment course.