What to Know Before Getting Laser Hair Removal on Your Face

Unwanted facial hair can be frustrating to manage, and regular waxing, shaving, and plucking often cause irritation and ingrown hairs. Laser hair removal offers a long-term solution, reducing regrowth and smoothing skin. 

But is laser hair removal safe for the face? How effective is it? This guide covers everything you need to know before booking a session in Australia.

Let’s Get Straight to the Point

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick breakdown of facial laser hair removal:

• Safe and effective: When performed by a qualified professional, laser hair removal is safe for the face and can significantly reduce hair growth.
• Best for dark hair: The treatment works best on dark hair and lighter skin tones, though advancements in laser technology now cater to a wider range of skin types.
• Multiple sessions required: Most people need 6 to 10 sessions to see optimal results.
• Mild side effects: Temporary redness and swelling are common, but serious risks associated with facial laser hair removal are rare.
• Aftercare is essential: Avoid sun exposure, exfoliation, and harsh skincare products after treatment to prevent irritation.
• Not entirely permanent: Hair reduction is long-lasting, but occasional maintenance sessions may be needed.

Now, let’s get into the details.

Is Laser Hair Removal Safe for the Face?

Laser hair removal is considered safe for facial hair when done by a qualified and experienced practitioner. The procedure uses light energy to target the pigment in hair follicles, heating and disabling them to slow regrowth.

1. What Areas of the Face Can Be Treated?

Laser hair removal is commonly used for:

• Upper lip and chin – One of the most popular areas for treatment, especially for women dealing with hormonal hair growth.
• Sideburns and jawline – Great for shaping and removing excess hair.
• Cheeks and forehead – Less common but can help those with fine, persistent facial hair.

Each area has different hair types, meaning results and session numbers may vary. For example, the upper lip and chin often have thicker hair that responds well to laser treatment, whereas the cheeks and forehead may have finer vellus hair, which can be more resistant to laser therapy.

2. Who Should Avoid Laser Hair Removal?

While safe for most, some individuals should take extra precautions or avoid treatment:

• Pregnant women – There’s limited research on laser safety during pregnancy.
• Those with skin conditions – If you have active acne, eczema, or psoriasis, consult a dermatologist first.
• People with very light or grey hair – The laser is less effective on hair with little to no pigment.

If you fall into one of these categories, you might need alternative hair removal methods, such as electrolysis or prescription creams.

How Effective is Laser Hair Removal for Facial Hair?

Effectiveness depends on skin type, hair colour, and consistency with treatments. The best results are seen in those with dark hair and lighter skin, as the laser targets pigment in the follicle.

1. How Many Sessions for Facial Laser Hair Removal?

Facial hair is finer and more hormonally driven than body hair, so results take time. On average:

• 6 to 10 sessions – Required for long-term hair reduction.
• 4 to 6 weeks apart – To target hair in different growth stages.
• Maintenance sessions – Once or twice a year may be needed for stubborn regrowth.

Hair grows in different cycles: anagen (active), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Laser treatment only works on hairs in the active growth stage, so multiple sessions are necessary to reach all hair follicles at the right time.

2. Best Laser for Facial Hair Removal

Several laser types are used in Australia, with the most popular being:

• Alexandrite Laser – Ideal for light to medium skin tones.
• Diode Laser – Works well on various skin types, including darker tones.
• Nd:YAG Laser – The safest option for darker skin types, though slightly less effective on fine hair.

Your clinician will recommend the best laser for your skin and hair type, but Alexandrite and Diode lasers generally offer the best results for facial hair.

What to Expect During Facial Laser Hair Removal

Understanding the procedure helps ease any concerns before your first appointment.

1. Before Your Appointment

To prepare for your session:

✔ Shave the area the night before—waxing or plucking should be avoided for at least four weeks.

✔ Avoid sun exposure and tanning, as lasers work best on untreated skin.

✔ Skip skincare products containing retinol, acids, or harsh exfoliants 48 hours before treatment.

Shaving is crucial as it removes surface hair without disturbing the follicle. Waxing or plucking, however, removes the root, making laser treatment ineffective.

2. During the Procedure

• Your clinician will cleanse the skin and apply a cooling gel.
• A handheld laser device will emit pulses of light onto the treatment area.
• Like a rubber band flick, you may feel a mild stinging or snapping sensation.
• The process takes 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the treated area.

Most people tolerate the treatment well, but some clinics offer numbing creams for sensitive areas like the upper lip.

3. After the Treatment

• Redness and mild swelling are common and should subside within a few hours.
• Avoid heat (hot showers, saunas, and exercise) for 24 to 48 hours.
• Apply soothing creams like aloe vera or a cold compress if needed.

Facial Laser Hair Removal Risks

Laser hair removal is generally safe, but there are some potential risks and side effects.

1. Common Side Effects

• Redness and irritation – Usually subsides within a few hours.
• Swelling – Temporary and more common in sensitive areas like the upper lip.
• Pigment changes – Hyperpigmentation (dark spots) or hypopigmentation (light spots) may occur but are usually temporary.

2. Rare but Possible Risks

• Burns or blisters – More likely if the wrong laser settings are used.
• Scarring – Extremely rare when performed by a trained professional.
• Paradoxical hair growth – In some cases, fine hair may become thicker rather than reducing.

Following proper pre- and post-care instructions minimises the chances of these risks.

Post-Care Tips for Facial Laser Hair Removal

Aftercare is essential to ensuring the best results and avoiding complications. Following the right post-treatment routine helps prevent irritation, reduce the risk of pigmentation, and maximise the effectiveness of laser hair removal for facial hair.

1. Immediate Aftercare

The first 48 hours after treatment are important for allowing the skin to heal properly. During this period, you may notice mild redness, slight swelling, or a warm sensation in the treated area—this is normal and should subside within a few hours.

✅ Use a gentle cleanser – Wash your face with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water to avoid irritation. Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating for at least 48 hours.

✅ Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily – Protecting your skin from UV rays is essential, as laser-treated skin is more susceptible to sun damage and hyperpigmentation.

✅ Avoid heat and sweating for at least 48 hours – Avoid saunas, hot showers, steam rooms, and intense exercise, as heat can worsen inflammation and cause irritation.

✅ Skip makeup and harsh skincare products – Avoid retinol, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and other active ingredients for at least 48 to 72 hours to prevent stinging and sensitivity.

✅ Soothe your skin – Apply aloe vera gel or a cold compress if you experience discomfort or redness. Avoid heavy creams or oils that may clog pores.

2. Long-Term Care

Laser hair removal is gradual, and maintaining good skincare habits between sessions ensures the best outcome.

• Stay consistent with treatments – Skipping or delaying sessions can affect results since laser hair removal works by targeting hair during the active growth phase.
• Hydrate and moisturise – Keeping your skin well-moisturised helps maintain its barrier and prevents dryness, which can be more noticeable after laser treatments. Opt for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturisers.
• Limit sun exposure – Laser-treated skin is highly sensitive to UV rays, increasing the risk of hyperpigmentation. Always wear a wide-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
• Avoid waxing, plucking, or threading – These methods remove hair from the follicle, making laser treatments less effective. Stick to shaving if needed between sessions.

Sunscreen is especially important in Australia, where the UV index is high year-round.

Conclusion

Laser hair removal for facial hair is an effective way to achieve smoother skin with long-term hair reduction. While results vary, most people see significant improvements after a few sessions. 

Choosing the best laser for facial hair removal, following post-care tips, and working with a skilled professional will ensure the safest and most effective experience.

If you’re considering laser hair removal for the upper lip and chin, sideburns and jawline, or any other facial area, research clinics thoroughly and consult a qualified specialist before starting.

Would you try facial laser hair removal? Let us know your thoughts!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Sessions For Facial Laser Hair Removal Are Needed?

Most people need 6 to 10 sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, to see significant hair reduction. Maintenance treatments may be required once or twice a year for lasting results.

Is Laser Hair Removal Safe For The Face?

Yes, laser hair removal for facial hair is safe when performed by a trained professional. Mild redness and swelling are common, but serious side effects are rare with proper aftercare.

What Is The Best Laser For Facial Hair Removal?

The Alexandrite laser is ideal for light to medium skin tones, while the Diode and Nd:YAG lasers work better for darker skin. Your technician will recommend the best option based on your hair and skin type.

How Effective Is Laser Hair Removal For Facial Hair?

Laser hair removal reduces hair growth, but results vary based on hair colour, skin tone, and hormonal factors. Dark hair responds best, and while regrowth is minimal, maintenance sessions may be needed.

What Are The Post-Care Tips For Facial Laser Hair Removal?

Avoid sun exposure, exfoliation, and heat (hot showers, saunas, and workouts) for at least 48 hours. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily and use gentle, soothing skincare to prevent irritation.