Shaving, waxing and threading all work, but they need repeating again and again. That is why many people in Dubai turn to laser hair removal as a longer-term option for the face and body. But how does it actually work, how many sessions will you need, and is it safe for your skin type?
This guide covers the essentials, including options for men, the difference between laser and IPL, and what affects the cost. Laser hair removal is a medical procedure. Results vary between individuals, and a qualified practitioner should assess your skin and hair before treatment.
How laser hair removal works
Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy that is absorbed by melanin, the pigment in the hair. The light turns into heat, which travels down the hair shaft to the follicle, the small structure in the skin that produces hair. The heat damages the follicle and reduces its ability to grow new hair.
Two things are important to understand:
- It works best on hair that is actively growing. Hair grows in cycles, and at any time only some follicles are in the active growth phase. This is why several sessions are needed, spaced weeks apart, to catch more follicles in that phase.
- It reduces hair rather than removing every hair forever. Most people see a significant long-term reduction in hair growth, with remaining hair often finer and lighter. Some regrowth over time is normal, and occasional maintenance sessions may be needed. You will often see it searched as “permanent hair removal”, but “long-term hair reduction” is the more accurate description.
Because the laser targets pigment, it works best on dark hair. Very light, blonde, red, grey or white hair contains little melanin and usually responds poorly.
Face vs full body
Laser hair removal can be used on almost any area, but face and body treatments differ in a few ways.
Face. Common areas include the upper lip, chin, jawline, cheeks and neck. Facial hair can be influenced by hormones, so some people may need more sessions or ongoing maintenance. If facial hair growth is new, sudden or increasing, it is worth seeing a doctor first, since it can sometimes be linked to hormonal conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Full body. Popular areas include the legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, back and chest. Larger areas take longer per session. The skin on the body may be more or less sun-exposed than the face, which affects settings.
Whichever areas you choose, your practitioner will adjust the laser settings to suit each area’s skin and hair.
Men’s laser hair removal
More men are choosing laser hair removal, and the reasons vary. Common areas include the back, shoulders, chest, neck and beard line. Some men use it to tidy or shape the beard, or to reduce ingrown hairs and irritation from shaving, particularly on the neck.
Men’s hair is often thicker and denser, and sessions on large areas such as the back take longer. Hormones also mean some areas may need more treatments. When planning laser hair removal for men in Dubai, think carefully before treating the beard area, as reducing facial hair cannot easily be reversed.
Laser vs IPL
You will often see IPL (intense pulsed light) offered alongside laser hair removal. They are related but not the same.
| Factor | Laser | IPL |
|---|---|---|
| Light | A single, focused wavelength | A broad spectrum of light, filtered |
| Precision | More targeted at the hair follicle | Less targeted |
| Skin types | Different lasers suit a wide range of skin types | Generally better suited to lighter skin with dark hair |
| Use | Hair reduction | Hair reduction and other skin concerns |
Common hair removal lasers include alexandrite, diode and Nd:YAG. Each has a different wavelength, which affects how deep it reaches and which skin types it suits. Nd:YAG lasers are often preferred for darker skin tones, because they are less absorbed by the pigment in the surface of the skin.
IPL can be effective for some people, but for medium and darker skin tones, a laser chosen for that skin type is usually the safer choice.
Sessions and skin types
Most people need a course of several sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to treat hair through its growth cycles. Facial areas are often treated at shorter intervals than body areas. The exact number depends on:
- The area treated
- Hair colour, thickness and density
- Skin type
- Hormonal factors
- The device used
Skin type matters for safety. Laser hair removal works best when there is a strong contrast between dark hair and lighter skin. In medium and darker skin, more of the laser energy can be absorbed by the skin itself, which increases the risk of burns or pigment changes if the wrong device or settings are used. With the right laser and an experienced practitioner, people with darker skin can still be treated.
Before and between sessions, you will usually be advised to:
- Shave the area before treatment, but avoid waxing, plucking or threading, which remove the hair the laser needs to target
- Avoid sun exposure, tanning and self-tan before and after treatment
- Tell your practitioner about any new medicines, as some increase light sensitivity
Common short-term effects include redness, slight swelling around follicles and a feeling similar to mild sunburn. Less commonly, blistering, burns or changes in skin colour can occur. Contact your clinic if you notice anything other than mild, settling redness.
Laser hair removal may not be suitable, or needs extra caution, if you are pregnant, have active infection or broken skin in the area, have a recent tan, take medicines that increase light sensitivity, or have a history of keloid scarring.
Cost factors in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The cost of laser hair removal varies, and quotes usually depend on:
- The area size. Small areas such as the upper lip cost less per session than full legs or full body.
- The number of sessions in your course.
- The device. Different lasers have different running costs.
- The practitioner’s expertise.
- Packages. Many clinics offer packages for multiple sessions or areas.
Compare like with like. A cheaper session may use a different device or a shorter treatment time.
Choosing a laser clinic
When choosing a laser hair removal clinic, check that:
- The clinic is licensed by the relevant health authority, such as the DHA in Dubai or DoH in Abu Dhabi
- The practitioner is trained and licensed to operate the laser
- The clinic uses devices suited to your skin type
- You are offered a consultation and, where appropriate, a patch test
- You receive clear aftercare advice
A proper consultation is the best starting point. You can find out more about treatment in Dubai and about laser hair removal in Abu Dhabi on Skin111’s laser hair removal page.
FAQs
Is laser hair removal permanent? It gives long-term hair reduction rather than guaranteed permanent removal. Some regrowth is normal, and maintenance sessions may be needed.
Does it hurt? Most people describe a snapping or warm sensation. Many devices have cooling to improve comfort.
Can I have laser hair removal on dark skin? Yes, with a laser suited to darker skin, such as Nd:YAG, and an experienced practitioner.
Does it work on blonde or grey hair? Usually not well, because the laser needs pigment in the hair to target.
Can I shave between sessions? Yes. Shaving is fine, but avoid waxing, plucking and threading.
