Laser hair removal has become a go-to method for managing unwanted body hair, and there’s no denying how silky smooth your skin feels without that excess stubble. But laser hair removal treatments aren’t cheap, especially if you want quality, long-lasting results delivered by an experienced professional.
Laser hair removal in the UK can cost as little as £85 for an upper lip treatment and as much as several hundred pounds for more extensive procedures. The laser hair removal price depends on the area you want to treat, your skin type, the number of sessions required, and a clinic’s location.
In this article, I’ll explore the factors that can increase the cost of laser hair removal in the UK and what you should watch out for if you’re looking to have laser hair removal done for the first time. I’ll also elaborate on the average price points for most types of treatments, so you’ll have a better idea of the price range for your procedure.
Covered in this Article:
Factors That Affect the Cost of Laser Hair Removal in the UK
There are a few factors to consider when determining the cost of laser hair removal. According to the NHS’s website on laser hair removal, you should expect to pay more for the procedure based on the area that you’re having treated.
In this chart, you’ll find an overview of the price points indicated by the NHS, and a renowned clinic’s recommended number of sessions needed for each area:
| Treatment Area | Upper Lip | Underarms | Arms | Bikini Line |
| Number of Sessions | 2 – 6 | 6 – 8 | 6 – 8 | 6 – 10 |
| Price per Session | £85 | £110 | £270 | £130 |
Source: NHS, Calveo, Mayo Clinic, Calveo
As you can see, the smaller the treatment area, the less your procedure may cost, and the fewer number of hair removal sessions you’ll likely need. However, many clinics will determine their price points on other factors too.
Here’s a detailed look at those factors:
Area of Hair Removal
The areas that you want your hair removed will impact how much your treatments will cost. For example, an upper lip treatment is often much cheaper than treatments on the legs or even a bikini line – as noted from the chart above.
Larger areas, such as the chest, legs, arms, and back, tend to be more expensive because more unwanted hair will have to be removed.
The practitioner may not be able to treat all of the hair in the first session, and instead may have to be performed in sections, or patches. This is in conjunction with the subsequent appointments needed to maintain your results.
Skin Type
According to SK:N Clinic, your skin type can also affect the price of your laser hair removal treatments.
The clinic classifies skin types into 6 categories, which range from extremely fair skin that burns easily, to darker brown skin that doesn’t burn at all. This scale is important because it helps practitioners determine the best approach to your laser hair removal procedure.
According to the same source, darker skin tones are typically much more challenging to treat because of the competing pigments between the hair follicles and the skin, leaving those with deep tones more prone to burns or injury.
However, experienced practitioners should have no problem navigating your skin and hair’s pigments, and should be able to ensure your laser treatments are successful and safe.
To learn more about how laser hair removal works on those with darker skin tones, check out this YouTube video from Dr Simi Adedeji, a UK-licensed health professional with over 19 years of experience in the medical field:
Source: SK:N Clinic, YouTube: Dr Simi Adedeji
Number of Sessions
As noted in the chart, laser hair removal treatments are rarely successful after only one session. Even for smaller areas, most treatments will require multiple sessions to prevent the hair follicle from producing new growth. The number of sessions you’ll need can depend on your skin and hair type, and your hormones.
However, almost everyone that has laser hair removal services will require more than one laser treatment, which can boost the overall cost of your procedure.
According to the NHS, most of your sessions will be spaced out by 4 – 6 weeks, so you probably won’t achieve the complete results until at least six months after your initial treatment. This means that you may have to spend several hundred pounds before your procedure is complete.
Your practitioner may also recommend more salon treatments if your skin and hair type are prone to quicker hair regrowth.
Location and Reputation of the Clinic
When it comes to cosmetic procedures, it’s essential to do your research and check the ratings and reviews of different clinics. For laser hair removal, the prices of your treatments can also vary depending on what region you’re located in and if the clinic you’re enquiring about is reputable.
Laser hair removal clinics located in metropolitan areas, such as London, can be more expensive than clinics in smaller towns and suburbs.
For example, a top-rated clinic in London charges over £100 for a single upper lip treatment, while a salon in Staffordshire can provide the same treatment for only £55.
Source: Pulse Light Clinic, Laser Chic
Clinics that have lower ratings or employ practitioners with less experience may also charge a lower price for their services, but this doesn’t mean you should automatically jump at the chance for cheap laser hair removal.
Since laser hair removal is a painful procedure as it is, you’ll want to opt for a professional with extensive experience that’s also licensed and certified to provide quality results. You can ask the clinic to see photos of before and after shots, check the clinic’s customer ratings and reviews online, and ask to see the practitioner’s licence.
Laser Hair Removal Prices for Men vs Women
While the previously mentioned factors can affect the cost of laser hair removal treatments, it should be noted that some clinics may have higher prices per session for men’s hair removal services than for women. This is often because the removal area for men is much larger (usually the chest and back).
Depending on their hormones, some men may also grow more hair quicker, which will require more frequent sessions than women. This can drive up the overall price of laser hair removal treatments for men.
Alternatives To Laser Hair Removal
According to the NHS, laser hair removal is not permanent unless you receive several treatments. Each treatment is intended to delay new hair growth by stunting the hair follicle. After several sessions, most people find that their hair grows back slower or not at all.
Electrolysis
However, there are alternatives to laser hair removal, including a treatment called electrolysis. Electrolysis is another hair removal method that uses electric vibrations to traumatise the hair follicles and prevent new hair growth.
Like laser hair removal, electrolysis treatment also requires a few sessions before the treatment is completely successful and the procedure is safe for all skin tones.
Hair Removal Devices
The other alternatives to laser hair removal include at-home devices that you can purchase to zap, burn, or pull the hairs from the follicles. While these devices may be helpful for some, I personally wouldn’t recommend them, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Waxing is another alternative, but this option isn’t the best if you have hair that grows back quickly, since you’ll need to re-wax the area quite frequently. Too much waxing can also cause skin irritation.
Hair Removal Creams
Instead, I prefer using hair removal creams, also known as depilatory creams, that can be applied directly to the skin and washed off. These creams usually provide quick hair removal and don’t tend to cause as much irritation, nor do they penetrate into the hair follicle.
However, depilatory creams typically can’t be used on your face or around your genitalia, unless you purchase specific ones. These creams can also be used in between your laser hair removal sessions.
They can safely be used on your back, chest, arms, underarms, and legs. For a smooth skin finish, I recommend hair removal cream specifically made for sensitive skin – click here to see a selection on Amazon.
Not only are these creams affordable, but it’s also incredibly nourishing. I use Veet and it doesn’t leave my skin feeling dry or scaly after the hair has been removed. It also keeps me smooth for everyday comfort, but ensures I don’t damage hair follicles for my next laser session.
Source: British Institute and Association of Electrolysis, NHS, Web MD, Veet UK, Laser Clinic
After going through this article and learning more about laser hair removal, I hope you were able to find the information necessary to make an informed decision. As always, you should consult with a licensed professional before beginning any hair removal treatments.
FAQs
Is laser hair removal expensive in UK? ›
How Much Do Laser Hair Removal Sessions Cost? The factors above cause the cost of laser hair removal to vary from clinic to clinic and patient to patient. But the average price of hair removal sessions is around £60-£100 and most areas will require around six sessions to remove all unwanted hair.
How much does it cost to buy a laser machine? ›The average laser can cost anywhere from $50,000–250,000, which makes it a very significant asset to a business. This is why it is important to know all of the methods available to purchase a cosmetic laser.
How much is the laser hair removal industry worth? ›...
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Quantitative units | Revenue in USD million and CAGR from 2022 to 2030 |
Prices for laser hair loss therapy start from £45 per session. The amount of therapy sessions required will depend on the extent of your hair loss, however we would normally recommend a six month treatment program for best results, with weekly visits to the clinic for laser treatment.
How much is laser therapy UK? ›| Treatment | Single Treatment From | Course of 3 Price per Treatment From |
|---|---|---|
| Half face or hands | £770.00 | £770.00 £693.33 |
| Full face or décolletage | £1,056.00 | £1,056.00 £950.00 |
| Face and neck | £1,419.00 | £1,419.00 £1,277.66 |
| Face, neck and décolletage | £1,922.00 | £1,922.00 £1,729.66 |
Laser Laser Hair Removal is expensive compared to other hair removal methods. This simple reason for this is due to the high acquisition cost of machines, maintenance and the materials used during these treatments are also very costly. A real laser machine will run tens of thousands of dollars, even used.
Can you buy your own laser hair removal machine? ›But laser hair removal? While the procedure used to only be available in the dermatologist's office, these days you can buy small devices to zap away hair yourself.
Is a laser business profitable? ›Laser engraving businesses can be very lucrative, provided you're willing to work hard and go through the due process. Just like any business, the laser engraving industry isn't giving money away.
Can you make money with a laser? ›Yes! Making money with a laser engraver is a really fun way to make some extra income or even start your own business. You might be surprised at the different things people want engraved with a laser. From trophies to tombstones, there is a huge market out there for you to tap.
Where do laser technicians make the most money? ›- New York, NY. $26.71 per hour. 25 salaries reported.
- Denver, CO. $24.62 per hour. 19 salaries reported.
- Dallas, TX. $24.02 per hour. 19 salaries reported.
- Austin, TX. $23.98 per hour. 19 salaries reported.
- Houston, TX. $23.54 per hour. ...
- Show more nearby cities.
Is laser hair removal a good investment? ›
1) Over time, laser hair removal saves you money.
If you purchase a $3 pack of razors and a $4 can of shaving cream each month, plus spend $50 on a bikini wax and $10 on a lip wax, that's $67 per month just maintaining unwanted hair. Over a year, that's $804!
India is one of the best countries to undergo Laser hair removal treatment because of its highly trained and professional doctors.
Is laser hair removal free on NHS? ›Whilst the short answer is “yes, laser hair removal is available on the NHS”, there are some significant caveats. The main one is that a clinical diagnosis is required and your local Clinical Commissioning Group will then consider if the condition is appropriate for funding.
Is laser hair removal for lifetime? ›Hair removal from a destroyed hair follicle is permanent. However, people who undergo hair removal can expect that some hair in the targeted area will grow back. Over time, it is possible to treat the area again to reduce the number of hairs that regrow.
Do most celebrities get laser hair removal? ›For people who want to remove unwanted hair, laser hair removal is an extremely popular procedure, with millions of satisfied customers who swear by it. And yes, many of these customers are celebrities.
How long does laser treatment last? ›You may need 12 treatments or more to completely eliminate hair growth. After that, the need for touchups should be minimal. Some people may require semiannual treatments at first. Others may find that they don't need a touchup for 5 years or longer.
How much does IPL treatment cost UK? ›How much is IPL Skin Rejuvenation by M22? Prices start from £100 to £250 for face and neck treatment taken as an individual package. Purchasing multiple sessions as part of a package is likely to prove more cost-effective for clients in the long-term. For full pricing please see our price list.
What laser does laser clinic UK use? ›What Laser Hair Removal machines do you use? At Laser Clinics, we use the world's leading Laser Hair Removal technology. Medical-grade, Candela GentleLASE Pro and GentleYAG Pro. This technology is TGA approved and uses Alexandrite technology to provide the best treatment results.
Does laser remove 100% hair? ›Although the procedure is often touted as a form of “permanent” hair removal, laser treatment only reduces the number of unwanted hairs in a given area. It doesn't get rid of unwanted hairs completely.
Is laser actually permanent? ›Although laser hair removal effectively delays hair growth for long periods, it usually doesn't result in permanent hair removal. Multiple laser hair removal treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well.
Can laser permanently damage skin? ›
Permanent scarring.
Though lasers are often used to correct scarring, they then can, ironically, cause more serious, permanent scars. This is because the laser works by causing slight damage to your skin in order to improve it. However, when done incorrectly, this damage can lead to disfigurement.
How much should a decent laser hair removal machine cost? Leading brands in this industry such as Candela offer new laser hair removal machines upwards of $80,000 and refurbished models from $60,000.
Are at home laser machines worth it? ›To sum up, buying a home hair removal device is a waste of money, so your best choice would be a series of professional treatments for a considerable and lasting reduction in your body hair.
Is home laser better than salon? ›Longer-lasting Results: Although home laser systems work much the same way as professional ones, they use a lower intensity with less effectiveness. Many people find that the hair grows back faster and the treatments are less permanent than professional hair removal.
How much does it cost to start a laser business? ›To build a laser tag business from the ground up, you'll need to set a budget anywhere from $100,000 to upwards of $250,000 USD. The largest investments for a laser tag startup include: Lease or purchase of building, typically between 3,000 and 5,000 square feet.
Can I make money with a laser cutter? ›Laser engraving is a great business, and users can earn a handsome amount by making products through engraving and selling them online. It is an easy and quick source of earning that can start from your own home and with a little investment.
How do I market my laser hair removal business? ›- Save clients money. ...
- Upfront pricing. ...
- Spend advertising dollars online. ...
- Hire a marketing professional. ...
- Opt for low- or no-cost ads. ...
- Extend hours and staff. ...
- Tap into new clients.
Laser pointers must have an output of 5mW or less and be a class 1M, 1C, 2/II, 2M/IIM, or 3A/IIIA, 3B/IIIB or 3R/IIIR. Military, tactical or “high powered” lasers are not allowed.
What can I sell with a laser cutter? ›- Laser Engraving Business Ideas.
- Laser Engraving Services.
- Selling Engraved Products.
- Charcuterie Board.
- Jewellery.
- Leather Wallet.
- Compass.
- Wedding Ring Box.
The machine running time is the basic calculation factor for the laser cutting power. The longer the laser runs, the more expensive it becomes. In most cases, around 1 dollor per minute of machine running time, i.e. 60 usd/h, is used as the basis for calculating the pure machine costs.
How much do laser techs make UK? ›
Average £24,715 per year.
How much does a laser technician make in Dubai? ›What is the salary trajectory of a LASER TECHNICIAN? The salary trajectory of a LASER TECHNICIAN ranges between locations and employers. The salary starts at AED 47,568 per year and goes up to AED 55,969 per year for the highest level of seniority.
How much does a laser engraver make? ›Laser Engravers in America make an average salary of $36,398 per year or $18 per hour. The top 10 percent makes over $46,000 per year, while the bottom 10 percent under $28,000 per year.
Who is the target market for laser hair removal? ›The female segment dominated the market in 2021, and is expected to continue this trend throughout the laser hair removal market forecast, owing to rise in awareness among female population regarding physical appearance and increase in number of laser hair removal procedure in professional women.
What is better than laser hair removal? ›But electrolysis seems to work the best. The results are more permanent. Electrolysis also carries fewer risks and side effects, and you don't need the maintenance treatments required for laser hair removal. The downside is that electrolysis must be spread out over more sessions.
Can laser make hair growth worse? ›Unfortunately a possible side effect of laser hair removal is that the laser treatment actually makes the hair growth worse. This is called paradoxical hypertrichosis.
Where do the Kardashians go for laser hair removal? ›For at-home laser removal, Kim Kardshian swears by the TRIA Hair Removal Laser device. On the other hand, Khloe Kardashian and Kylie Jenner both visit professional laser clinic Sev Laser for their Candela GentleMax Pro.
Do celebrities shave or laser? ›Because celebrities are often photographed and show their bodies on camera, they turn to laser to permanently reduce 'not so happy' hair growth as opposed to constantly shaving and risking visible and uncomfortable razor burn!”
Can Muslims get laser? ›Yes, hair removal with painless lasers is allowed in Islam.
What treatments are free in UK? ›- GP services.
- NHS Walk in centres and minor injuries units.
- Services provided as part of the "NHS 111" telephone advice line.
- Services provided by health visitors and school nurses.
- Accident and emergency treatment at a hospital (up until admission as an in or out-patient.
Is surgery in the UK free? ›
Hospital treatment is free if you're ordinarily resident in the UK. If you're visiting England or recently moved to England, look up the relevant information about accessing the NHS, as charges may occur.
Is laser treatment free in the UK? ›Conditions treated by laser eye surgery for free by the NHS
Only patients suffering from debilitating sight disorders which can lead to blindness are the only suitable candidates for free laser eye surgery on the NHS.
For most people, it's best to wait between four and eight weeks between each treatment, and we generally recommend six treatments for optimal results.
Does laser ever grow back? ›However, even though laser treatments damage hair follicles, they're not destroyed completely. Over time, the treated follicles may recover from the initial damage and grow hair again. It's a tall order to eliminate every hair follicle in a given area. Therefore, you may notice a tiny amount of hair regrowth.
Does laser permanently remove pubic hair? ›Laser hair removal is a procedure to remove unwanted body hair. People may want the treatment on their underarms, back or bikini area. It's not permanent, but the results last longer than shaving or waxing. Most people need about six treatments.
How do models stay hairless? ›Temporary options include shaving (by far the most popular method), waxing, depilatory creams, tweezing, and trimming. If going this route, it's best to use a light hand and keep antibiotic ointment close by to treat any nicks or bumps.
Can laser hair removal make you more hairy? ›"However, there is a condition known as paradoxical hypertrichosis, which is a rare risk of laser hair removal, where the hair can grow back thicker after laser." It sounds like something out of a horror film, but the thing is, no one really understands exactly why this happens in laser patients, although there are a ...
Can u get laser hair removal on NHS? ›Laser treatment for hair removal is not usually funded on the NHS. The Exceptional Funding Panel in your local area may consider funding for patients with unusually severe conditions or exceptional circumstances.
Can the NHS help with laser hair removal? ›In general, laser hair removal is considered a cosmetic procedure and will not be offered by most NHS Trusts. Even if excess hair is the result of a hormonal imbalance or conditions such as polycystic ovaries, the treatment offered by the NHS is usually medication.
Can I shave if I did laser? ›Can You Shave After Laser Hair Removal? You can shave after you are receive a laser hair removal treatment. However, it is important that you do not shave right away. You'll be required by your medical professional to shave several days before your appointment to ensure the hair is the right length.
Can I shave 3 hours before laser hair removal? ›
It is important to shave before your laser hair removal appointment, 24 hours before is recommended. Shaving on the day of your session can be dangerous and should be avoided completely. This is because when you shave the razor may lift a layer of skin off as it passes over your skin.
Can I shave if Im doing laser? ›Yes, you can shave in between each session of laser hair removal. During your course of treatment you can shave any hairs that may regrow. After your first laser hair removal session you will notice that you won't need to shave as much as before. After 2-3 sessions you may only need to shave once in a 4-6 week period.
What are the negatives of laser hair removal? ›- Mild swelling around the hair follicles.
- Pigment changes may occur, especially in those with darker skin – these changes are usually temporary.
- Slight redness of the skin.
- Temporary irritation resulting in blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture.
To sum up, buying a home hair removal device is a waste of money, so your best choice would be a series of professional treatments for a considerable and lasting reduction in your body hair.