Laser hair removal is the most effective long-term solution to unwanted hair, and one where the setting matters: at ELM Aesthetics it is carried out by Georgia Abrams, Skin & Laser Therapist (Level 3 qualified), or by Melody Steel, a Nurse Prescriber with over 19 years’ experience and a background in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery unit at St James’s Hospital. Both practitioners are fully insured.
How it works
The laser emits light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle, gently heating and disabling it so it can no longer produce hair. Because hair grows in cycles — and the laser only affects follicles in their active growth phase — a minimum of six treatments are needed as a starting point, spaced four to six weeks apart to catch each follicle at the right moment.
You will see a significant reduction in hair growth by the end of those six sessions — but your hair will not be completely gone at that stage, and you will almost certainly need additional sessions. Exactly how many depends on:
- Where the hair is on your body
- How quickly your hair grows
- How well you follow the aftercare advice
- Keeping to your scheduled appointment times
Areas we treat
Face: lip or chin, full face, and small areas such as ears, fingers and nose. Intimate: bikini line, Brazilian (leaving a small strip), Hollywood (bare), and nipples. Body: underarms, half and full arms, half and full legs, chest, back, abdomen, and a full-body package. Areas can be combined for a personalised package — speak to us about combining and saving.
Why autumn is the time to start
Tanned or recently sun-exposed skin holds more pigment, which competes with the hair follicle for the laser’s energy and can mean postponing sessions. As sun exposure falls in autumn, that complication disappears — and a course started in September finishes as next summer arrives. Read more in our guide to timing your course.
What to expect
Every course begins with a consultation and a patch test — not optional, and any clinic that skips it is cutting a corner that exists for your safety. Shave the area 24 hours before each session; do not wax or pluck between sessions, as the follicle needs to be present. Treatment feels like a warm snap against the skin. Afterwards, expect mild redness for a few hours. Avoid sun exposure, heat and friction on the area for 24 to 48 hours, and use SPF throughout the course.
Honest limitations
Laser hair removal produces a significant long-term reduction rather than a guaranteed permanent removal of every hair, and occasional maintenance sessions are common. It is most effective on dark hair; very fair, grey or red hair lacks the pigment the laser targets and responds poorly. Hormonal conditions such as PCOS can drive regrowth and may need more sessions. Results vary from person to person, and suitability for your skin type is confirmed at the patch test.
What it costs
Course-of-six prices shown; single sessions in each description. Combine areas for a personalised package. A patch test is required before your first session. A deposit will be required to secure your appointment.
Your questions answered
Does laser hair removal hurt?
It feels like a warm snap against the skin, more noticeable on sensitive areas. Most people find it very tolerable, and sessions are quick.
How many sessions will I need?
A minimum of six, four to six weeks apart, as a starting point. You will see a significant reduction by then but will almost certainly need further sessions — how many depends on the area, your hair growth, aftercare and keeping to your appointment schedule.
Is it permanent?
It gives a significant long-term reduction rather than guaranteed permanent removal of every hair. Occasional maintenance sessions are common.
Does it work on fair or grey hair?
Poorly. The laser targets pigment, so very fair, grey or red hair responds far less well. Melody will be honest about this at your patch test.
Can I have it done with darker skin?
Suitability depends on the device settings and your skin type, which is exactly what the patch test establishes.
Why do I need to shave but not wax?
The laser needs the follicle in place to target it. Shaving removes the surface hair while leaving the follicle; waxing or plucking removes the follicle and defeats the treatment.