In 40 seconds
Laser hair removal uses a beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair, heating and damaging the follicle so it produces finer, lighter hair or none at all. It works best on dark hair, and modern Nd:YAG lasers can treat darker skin tones more safely; it does not work well on blonde, red, grey or white hair. Because the laser only affects hair in its active growth phase, most people need a course of 6–8 sessions, spaced 4–8 weeks apart, with occasional maintenance. Cost is typically £50–£150 per session for a small area, more for larger areas. It achieves long-term hair reduction, not guaranteed permanent removal, and a patch test and consultation with a qualified, regulated practitioner are essential first.