If you're going through laser hair removal or considering starting treatments, one of the most common questions that comes up is:
“Can I shave between sessions?”
The short answer is yes — and in most cases, it’s actually recommended.
But to fully understand why shaving is allowed (and waxing is not), it helps to know how laser hair removal works.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal targets the pigment (melanin) in hair. The laser emits light energy that’s absorbed by the hair follicle, heating and damaging it to inhibit future growth.
For the treatment to be effective, the hair root must be present in the follicle. That’s why timing and proper hair maintenance between sessions is so important.
Why Shaving Is Allowed (and Encouraged)
Shaving is the only hair removal method allowed between treatments because it removes the hair at the surface, without affecting the root.
Benefits of shaving between sessions:
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Keeps skin smooth between treatments
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Reduces visible hair without interfering with laser results
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Prevents irritation from other methods like waxing or tweezing
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Ensures follicles stay intact, which is essential for the laser to work
What You Shouldn’t Do Between Sessions
Avoid these hair removal methods, as they remove the hair root, making the laser ineffective on that follicle:
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Waxing
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Tweezing
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Epilating
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Threading
If you’ve recently waxed or tweezed, you’ll need to wait until the hair regrows before continuing laser treatments.
How Often Should I Shave?
Everyone’s hair growth is different, but here are a few general guidelines:
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Shave the night before or day of your laser session, as most clinics recommend treating skin that is freshly shaved.
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If hair grows back between sessions, it’s fine to shave again as needed — just avoid over-shaving or irritating the skin.
Tip: Always use a clean, sharp razor and a gentle shaving cream or gel to reduce irritation.
What About Shaving After the Treatment?
You may need to wait a day or two to allow any redness or sensitivity to subside before shaving again. Avoid shaving immediately after a session, especially if the area feels warm, red, or sensitive.
Once the skin has calmed, shaving is safe again — and you may notice less and finer regrowth each time.