Laser hair removal is a clinically proven method for achieving long-term hair reduction across the face and body. In Singapore, smooth, hair-free skin is a common aesthetic goal among both men and women. This treatment offers a convenient and effective alternative to traditional methods such as shaving, waxing, or plucking.
At Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic, we use medical-grade technology such as the Diolaze XL diode laser to precisely target and disable hair follicles at the root. This results in gradual yet lasting hair removal with minimal discomfort. Laser hair removal is safe for a broad range of skin types, including tanned and darker skin tones, when performed with the appropriate settings.
At Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic in Singapore, we use the Diolaze XL diode laser system, which combines two clinically validated wavelengths: 810 nm and 1064 nm. The 810 nm wavelength is commonly used for lighter to medium skin tones, while the 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser is particularly safe and effective for darker or tanned skin types, including Malay and Indian skin.
The Diolaze XL also features a large treatment applicator, allowing larger body areas—such as the legs, back, or arms—to be treated quickly and efficiently. A built-in cooling mechanism enhances comfort during the procedure by protecting the skin’s surface and minimising heat-related discomfort.
While laser hair removal can achieve long-lasting results, it does not completely eliminate the possibility of new hair follicles forming. Factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, and individual physiology may influence future hair growth. These will be explored further in the section titled “Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?”
Laser hair removal is an effective solution for individuals looking to reduce unwanted hair on the face or body. While most people are suitable for treatment, certain factors may influence how well the procedure works and how many sessions are needed.
Those with darker hair and lighter skin typically respond best, as the laser targets melanin in the hair shaft. Commonly treated areas include the underarms, legs, bikini line, back, chest, and face. The treatment is also popular among individuals prone to ingrown hairs or skin irritation from shaving or waxing.
With the use of advanced technology like the Diolaze XL, laser hair removal is also safe and effective for tanned or darker skin tones, provided that the correct wavelength and settings are used.
Laser hair removal may be less effective in individuals with very light, red, grey, or blonde hair due to reduced pigment. Treatment may also be delayed in cases of active skin infection, recent sunburn, or underlying skin conditions affecting the treatment area.
Those with hormone-related hair growth, such as in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may still benefit from laser hair removal, but may require more sessions and occasional maintenance. This is discussed further in the section titled "What Factors Impact Laser Hair Removal Results?"
A consultation with our doctors is recommended to assess your skin type, hair characteristics, and suitability for treatment before proceeding.
Laser hair removal is a versatile treatment suitable for almost all areas of the face and body. It offers a convenient solution for reducing unwanted hair in both large and small treatment zones, helping patients achieve smoother, low-maintenance skin.
At our Singapore clinic, commonly treated areas include:
Laser hair removal can be tailored to individual goals, skin types, and hair thickness. Thanks to advanced technology like the Diolaze XL diode laser, we can safely and effectively treat even sensitive or hard-to-reach areas with precision.
Laser hair removal is a gradual process that requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal and lasting results. This is because hair grows in cycles, and the laser is most effective during the anagen (active growth) phase. At any given time, only a portion of hair follicles are in this phase, which is why several treatments are necessary to target all follicles effectively.
Most patients in Singapore require between 8 to 12 sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, depending on the treatment area and individual response. Areas with coarse or dense hair, such as the underarms or bikini line, may show visible improvement earlier, while finer hair or larger treatment zones may require more sessions.
The total number of sessions needed can vary based on:
Although laser hair removal provides long-lasting reduction, some patients may experience new hair growth over time due to hormonal changes or new follicle formation. Maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months may be recommended to sustain results, especially in hormonally sensitive areas.
A personalised treatment plan will be discussed during your consultation, taking into account your skin type, hair characteristics, and treatment goals.
Laser hair removal offers numerous advantages over traditional methods like shaving, waxing, and threading. With the use of advanced medical-grade lasers, patients can enjoy long-term results with minimal discomfort or downtime.
Laser hair removal offers long-lasting results, but it is not considered fully permanent. While the treatment effectively reduces hair regrowth by targeting and disabling existing hair follicles, it does not prevent the development of new follicles over time.
It's important to differentiate between hair regrowth and new hair growth.
Laser hair removal prevents regrowth by damaging the existing follicles, but no treatment can completely stop new follicles from developing.
Several factors can contribute to new hair growth after a successful round of laser treatments:
In these cases, maintenance sessions every few months can help manage new growth and maintain smooth results.
The effectiveness of laser hair removal depends on the pigment within the hair shaft.
Many patients considering hair removal treatments in Singapore often ask about the difference between laser hair removal and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). While both are designed to reduce unwanted hair, they differ significantly in terms of technology, safety, and overall treatment efficacy.
IPL uses a broad-spectrum light source that emits multiple wavelengths. This diffused energy targets melanin in the hair shaft but also affects surrounding skin tissue. While IPL may be moderately effective on dark, coarse hair, it is generally less precise and can carry a higher risk of side effects such as skin irritation, burns, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation—especially in patients with darker skin tones.
Laser hair removal uses a single, concentrated wavelength of light to target hair follicles more selectively and deeply. At Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic in Singapore, we use the Diolaze XL diode laser system, which combines high-speed pulses with integrated cooling to enhance both comfort and safety. This technology allows for effective hair removal across a wide range of skin types, including tanned and darker skin.
Laser treatments are also typically more consistent than IPL, with better results across different hair thicknesses and treatment areas. Due to the precision of the laser, it is more suitable for patients with sensitive skin or for use on delicate areas such as the face or bikini line.
Learn more about Laser Hair Removal Versus IPL Hair Removal here
Before undergoing laser hair removal, patients are advised to shave the treatment area 12–24 hours prior to the session. Waxing, plucking, or threading should be avoided for at least 3 weeks before the first appointment, as these methods remove the hair follicle, which is necessary for laser targeting.
During the session, the laser will be applied in multiple passes over the target area. Patients may feel a mild warmth or tingling sensation, especially in more sensitive zones such as the upper lip, underarms, or bikini line. Most individuals find the procedure tolerable, particularly with modern laser systems equipped with integrated cooling for enhanced comfort.
Results vary based on skin tone and hair type. Thicker, darker hair typically responds more quickly, while finer or lighter hair may require more sessions. Visible improvement may be observed within a few weeks of the first session, but optimal results are generally achieved after 8 to 12 treatments, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.
After each session, patients should continue shaving as needed and avoid hair removal methods that disrupt the follicle, such as waxing or threading, to maintain treatment efficacy.
The success of laser hair removal varies from person to person and depends on several biological and technical factors. Understanding these variables can help manage expectations and optimise long-term outcomes.
Laser hair removal targets melanin (pigment) within the hair shaft. Darker, coarser hair contains more melanin, allowing it to absorb more laser energy and respond better to treatment. In contrast, lighter hair colours such as blonde, grey, or red contain less pigment, which may result in a less effective response.
Thicker hair also requires more energy to sufficiently damage the follicle. While effective, it may take more sessions to achieve the desired results.
Skin tone plays an important role in determining the ideal laser settings and number of sessions. Individuals with darker skin tones have more melanin in their epidermis, which can also absorb laser energy—raising the risk of side effects like hyperpigmentation or burns if incorrect parameters are used.
This is why advanced systems like the Diolaze XL, which offer dual wavelengths including the Nd:YAG 1064nm, are preferred for treating darker or tanned skin. Adjusting laser intensity gradually and monitoring skin response are key to safety and efficacy.
Hormonal imbalances can stimulate new hair growth and affect the results of laser hair removal. For example, conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may lead to elevated androgen levels, causing persistent or new hair growth even after multiple sessions.
In such cases, more treatments may be required, and ongoing maintenance sessions may be necessary to manage new growth effectively.
While laser hair removal is generally safe and well-tolerated, it is important to be aware of potential side effects. Understanding these risks allows patients to make informed decisions and ensures that appropriate pre- and post-treatment care is followed.
Mild redness, swelling, or a warm sensation in the treated area are the most commonly reported effects. These are typically short-lived and resolve within a few hours to a few days. Cooling gels or recovery creams may be recommended to soothe the skin and support healing.
Though uncommon, laser hair removal can occasionally cause:
These side effects are usually temporary and can be minimised by choosing the right laser system for your skin type and following proper aftercare.
Patients are encouraged to consult with an experienced doctor or clinic to ensure the safest and most suitable treatment plan tailored to their individual skin profile.
Laser hair removal is a non-invasive procedure that uses targeted light energy to destroy hair follicles at the root. The laser targets melanin in the hair shaft, heating and damaging the follicle to reduce future hair growth. With multiple sessions, hair becomes finer, sparser, and less visible over time.
Laser hair removal offers long-lasting results, but it is not considered fully permanent. While the treatment can effectively reduce regrowth from existing follicles, new hair may develop due to hormonal changes or genetics. Maintenance sessions may be required to keep the area hair-free in the long term.
Most patients require 8 to 12 sessions, spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart. The number of sessions depends on your skin type, hair thickness, treatment area, and hormonal profile. Areas with thicker, darker hair typically respond faster to treatment.
Laser hair removal is generally well-tolerated. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild warmth or tingling. Advanced systems like Diolaze XL include built-in cooling mechanisms that help reduce discomfort during the procedure.
Yes. With the right technology and appropriate settings, laser hair removal is safe for darker skin tones. Devices that utilise the 1064 nm Nd:YAG wavelength are particularly suitable for patients with Malay, Indian, or tanned skin. A proper consultation ensures that settings are tailored to your skin type to minimise risks.
Yes, laser hair removal can be performed safely on sensitive skin, as long as the laser settings are properly adjusted. A patch test may be conducted before starting treatment to assess your skin's response.
Common treatment areas include the underarms, legs, bikini line, face (upper lip, chin, sideburns), chest, back, and arms. Laser hair removal is suitable for both men and women and can be customised based on your concerns and hair type.
