Laser Hair Removal: Why Starting in August Gives You the Best Results

If you've ever wished you could stop shaving every morning, skip painful waxing appointments, or avoid irritating razor bumps, laser hair removal may be the long-term solution you've been looking for.

One of the most common questions patients ask is, "When is the best time to start laser hair removal?"

While this treatment can be performed throughout much of the year, many providers recommend beginning treatments toward the end of summer. Starting laser hair removal in August gives your skin the opportunity to complete a full treatment series before warmer weather returns, helping you enjoy smoother skin when you want it most.

At LiveStrong Aesthetics & Wellness in Orland Park, Illinois, we believe informed patients make the best decisions. This guide explains how laser hair removal works, why treatment timing matters, what to expect during your appointments, and how to achieve the best possible results.

Why Timing Matters for Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal isn't a one-and-done procedure.

Hair grows in cycles, and the laser only effectively targets follicles during their active growth phase (called the anagen phase). Because not every hair is actively growing at the same time, multiple treatments are needed.

Most patients require:

• 6–8 treatment sessions

• Approximately 4–8 weeks between appointments depending on the treatment area

• Occasional maintenance sessions after completing the initial series

Beginning treatments toward the end of summer allows enough time to complete most or all of your series before the following summer season.

Instead of starting right before vacation or swimsuit season, your skin has months to gradually become smoother with each session.

How Laser Hair Removal Works

Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy that targets melanin (pigment) within the hair follicle.

The laser energy travels down the hair shaft and damages the follicle, reducing its ability to grow new hair.

Over time:

• Hair grows back slower

• Hair becomes finer

• Hair becomes lighter

• Many follicles stop producing hair altogether

Because the laser specifically targets pigment in the follicle, surrounding skin experiences minimal damage when treatment is performed appropriately.

Why Starting in August Offers Several Advantages

1. Less Sun Exposure

One of the biggest reasons providers recommend beginning treatments after peak summer is reduced sun exposure.

Recently tanned skin can:

• Increase the risk of irritation

• Make treatments less effective

• Raise the likelihood of pigment changes

• Require postponing appointments

As outdoor activities naturally decrease later in the season, it becomes easier to protect treated skin from excessive UV exposure.

This helps maintain skin health while allowing treatments to proceed on schedule.

2. Complete Your Treatment Series Before Summer

Laser hair removal requires patience.

For example:

• Session 1

• Session 2 (4–6 weeks later)

• Session 3

• Session 4

• Session 5

• Session 6

By starting earlier rather than waiting until spring, patients often finish the majority of treatments before shorts, swimsuits, and vacations become part of everyday life.

That means smoother skin when you actually want to enjoy the results.

3. Hair Is Easier to Target

Patients often allow body hair to grow slightly more during cooler months.

Although you'll still shave before appointments, this seasonal routine makes many people less likely to wax or tweeze between treatments.

Since waxing removes the hair follicle entirely, avoiding it helps maximize laser effectiveness.

4. More Comfortable Recovery

Most people experience only mild redness after treatment.

However, cooler weather makes it easier to avoid:

• Excessive sweating

• Heat exposure

• Sunburn

• Irritation from prolonged outdoor activities

This can make post-treatment care more comfortable.

Areas That Can Be Treated

Laser hair removal can safely reduce unwanted hair on many areas of the body.

Popular treatment areas include:

Face

• Upper lip

• Chin

• Jawline

• Sideburns

Upper Body

• Underarms

• Chest

• Back

• Shoulders

• Neck

Arms

• Full arms

• Half arms

• Hands

Bikini Area

• Bikini line

• Brazilian

• Extended bikini

Legs

• Full legs

• Lower legs

• Thighs

• Feet

• Toes

Many patients choose combination packages to treat multiple areas simultaneously.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Laser hair removal works best when there is a noticeable contrast between skin tone and hair color.

Modern laser technology has made treatment safer and more effective for a wider range of skin tones than ever before, although the ideal laser settings vary depending on each individual's complexion and hair characteristics.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Want long-term hair reduction

• Are tired of shaving or waxing

• Experience razor bumps

• Develop ingrown hairs

• Have unwanted facial or body hair

• Can commit to multiple sessions

A consultation helps determine whether laser hair removal is appropriate for your skin type, hair color, and treatment goals.

Who May Need Alternative Options?

Laser hair removal is less effective for:

• White hair

• Gray hair

• Blonde hair

• Very light red hair

These hair colors contain less melanin, making it harder for the laser to target the follicle.

Patients with these hair types may discuss alternative hair removal methods during consultation.

What Happens During Treatment?

Many patients are surprised by how quick appointments are.

A typical session includes:

Step 1: Consultation

Your provider reviews:

• Medical history

• Medications

• Skin type

• Hair characteristics

• Treatment goals

Step 2: Preparation

Before treatment:

• The area is cleansed.

• Protective eyewear is provided.

• Laser settings are customized.

Most patients should shave the treatment area 24 hours beforehand.

Step 3: Treatment

The laser delivers brief pulses of light into the follicles.

Patients commonly describe the sensation as:

• A rubber band snap

• Mild warmth

• Brief tingling

Many newer laser systems include cooling technology that improves comfort.

Step 4: Aftercare

Following treatment, mild redness may occur for several hours.

Patients can usually return to work and normal daily activities immediately.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Hair grows in repeating cycles.

Only actively growing hairs respond well during each appointment.

Most patients require:

• 6–8 initial treatments

• Maintenance once or twice yearly, depending on hormonal influences and individual hair growth patterns

Certain areas, such as the face, may require additional maintenance because facial hair is more hormonally influenced.

Preparing for Laser Hair Removal

Proper preparation helps improve results.

Before your appointment:

• Shave the area 24 hours before treatment.

• Avoid waxing or tweezing for several weeks.

• Limit excessive sun exposure.

• Avoid self-tanning products.

• Inform your provider about medications.

• Follow all pre-treatment instructions.

Aftercare Tips

Good aftercare supports healthy healing.

Following treatment:

• Wear sunscreen daily.

• Avoid hot tubs for 24–48 hours.

• Avoid excessive heat if instructed.

• Moisturize the treated area.

• Avoid picking or scratching the skin.

• Let treated hairs shed naturally.

Hair shedding typically begins one to three weeks after treatment.

Common Myths About Laser Hair Removal

Myth: It Removes Every Hair Forever

Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction, not necessarily permanent removal of every single hair.

Many patients enjoy years of smoother skin with occasional maintenance treatments.

Myth: It's Extremely Painful

Most patients tolerate treatment very well.

Modern cooling technology has significantly improved comfort compared to older laser systems.

Myth: You Can't Treat Sensitive Areas

Sensitive areas such as the bikini line and underarms are among the most commonly treated locations.

Treatments are customized for each area.

Myth: Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker

Shaving does not change the thickness or growth rate of hair.

Hair may feel coarser as it grows out because it has a blunt edge after shaving.

Benefits Beyond Hair Reduction

Many patients notice additional improvements after completing treatment.

These include:

• Fewer ingrown hairs

• Less razor burn

• Reduced skin irritation

• Smoother skin texture

• Less time spent shaving

• Reduced need for waxing appointments

For patients prone to chronic razor bumps, laser hair removal can significantly improve comfort and confidence.

Why Professional Laser Hair Removal Matters

Professional treatment offers advantages over at-home devices.

Medical aesthetic providers use equipment that provides:

• Higher energy levels

• Greater precision

• Customized settings

• Enhanced safety protocols

• More predictable results

An experienced provider also evaluates your skin before each treatment to ensure safe, effective care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction. Many follicles stop producing hair altogether, while others may produce finer, lighter hair over time. Maintenance treatments may be recommended.

Does laser hair removal hurt?

Most patients describe the sensation as mild and brief, similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Modern laser systems often include cooling features that improve comfort.

How many sessions do I need?

Most people require six to eight treatments, although the exact number depends on the treatment area, hair density, skin type, and hormonal influences.

Can I shave between treatments?

Yes. Shaving is encouraged between appointments.

However, avoid waxing, tweezing, or plucking because these remove the follicle the laser needs to target.

Is laser hair removal safe for sensitive skin?

When performed by trained medical professionals using appropriate technology, laser hair removal is considered safe for many skin types. Your provider will determine the best treatment approach during consultation.

Can I get laser hair removal in the summer?

Treatment can often still be performed, but excessive sun exposure and recent tanning may require postponing appointments. Protecting your skin from UV exposure is an important part of treatment success.

When will I see results?

Many patients notice slower regrowth after the first few treatments. Hair continues to become thinner and less dense as additional sessions are completed.

Ready to start your journey today? Book a complimentary consultation to see if laser hair reduction is right for you!