As the summer holidays become a distant memory and the colder weather arrives, laser hair removal might not be at the top of your list.
After all, when you’re spending more time in jeans, jumpers and winter coats, it’s easy to put hair removal on the back burner.
But if you’ve been thinking about starting laser hair removal, winter can be a convenient time to begin your treatment journey.
At The Laser Base, we treat clients throughout the year. However, there are a few practical reasons why some people choose to start during the colder months.
Why do people start laser hair removal in winter?
One of the main considerations with laser hair removal is sun exposure.
Recent tanning and significant UV exposure can affect whether your skin is suitable for treatment. Holidays and extended periods in the sun may also affect your appointment schedule.
During autumn and winter, many people naturally spend less time in direct sunlight. This can make it easier to plan your appointments around our sun-exposure guidance.
However, winter doesn’t mean you can forget about sun exposure.
If you’ve recently returned from a sunny holiday, used a sunbed or developed a tan, tell your practitioner before treatment. Your skin still needs an individual assessment, regardless of the time of year.
You can also read our guide to laser hair removal preparation and aftercare before your appointment.
Starting now gives your treatment time to progress
Another reason to consider starting laser hair removal in winter is that treatment involves a course of appointments rather than a single session.
Hair grows through different stages, and laser works best when the hair is in its active growth phase. Not every hair reaches this stage at the same time, so your appointments need to be spaced appropriately throughout your course.
Starting in the colder months gives you more time to work towards long-term hair reduction before the following summer.
As your course progresses, you may notice slower regrowth, finer hair or reduced density. The timing and extent of these changes will vary from person to person.
It’s important not to expect that starting in October or November will automatically mean being completely hair-free by your next summer holiday.
Your practitioner will discuss realistic expectations and recommend a treatment plan based on your individual hair and skin.
For more on treatment timing and what can affect the number of sessions you need, read our guide to how many laser hair removal sessions you really need.
Can you continue laser hair removal throughout winter?
Absolutely.
If you’re already partway through a course, there’s no reason to stop simply because the seasons are changing.
Your treatment schedule should depend on the area you’re treating, your individual hair growth and how your skin responds. It shouldn’t depend on whether you’re currently wearing shorts or winter clothing.
Keeping your appointments at the intervals recommended by your practitioner can help you stay consistent throughout your course.
If you have a winter holiday planned somewhere sunny, let the team know in advance. We can then advise you on your upcoming appointments and any sun-exposure considerations.
Is winter the right time for you to start?
The best time to start laser hair removal is when you’re ready to commit to your treatment plan and can follow the recommended preparation and aftercare advice.
For some people, winter simply makes that easier. For others, laser hair removal can fit comfortably into their routine at any time of year.
At The Laser Base, we offer laser hair removal in Manchester and Harrogate. Every new client starts with a consultation and patch test so we can assess your suitability and discuss what you can realistically expect from treatment.
Whether you want to reduce the time you spend shaving, manage unwanted body hair or start planning ahead for next summer, our team can help you understand your options.
Thinking about starting laser hair removal this winter?