Underarm Laser Hair Removal: Your Complete Guide (Sessions, Cost & What to Expect)
If you've ever stood in the shower, razor in hand, thinking there has to be a better way, you are not alone. At Results Laser Clinic, we've performed over 20 million treatments across 70+ clinics throughout Australia. When embarking on a laser hair removal journey can be tricky, our RLC team aims to support you every step of the way.
The quick answer
Most people need 6-10 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Sessions take 5-10 minutes. After a full course, expect 80-95% permanent hair reduction. Results Laser Clinic offers free consultations to build a personalised plan.
- 6–10 sessions
- 4–6 wks between sessions
- 5–10 min per session
- 80–95% hair reduction
What is Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
Underarm laser hair removal is a medical-grade treatment that targets hair follicles beneath the skin using concentrated light energy. The laser is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle, generating heat that disrupts the follicle's ability to produce new hair without damaging the surrounding skin.
Unlike shaving or waxing, laser treatment for underarm hair removal works at a structural level. Over a course of sessions, hair grows back progressively finer and sparser. All devices used at Results Laser Clinic are TGA-compliant, meeting Australian safety and clinical standards.
Why People Ditch the Underarm Razor for Laser
Research tells us just how consistent underarm hair removal is as a habit. Dr Breanne Fahs, cited in the Irish Examiner, notes that between 92% and 99% of women in Australia remove their leg and underarm hair consistently. Given that consistency, the method you choose matters more than most people realise.
92–99%
of women in Australia remove their leg and underarm hair consistently
Dr Breanne Fahs, via the Irish Examiner
Here's what drives clients to make the switch to laser:
- No more razor rash or post-shave irritation
- Smoother skin texture between sessions from day one
- No waiting for regrowth before your next appointment
- Long-term reduction in hair density and thickness
- Time saved, week after week
Armpit laser hair removal is one of the most popular starting points for people new to laser. The treatment area is small, sessions are quick, and results are noticeable early on.
How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Do I Need?
As a general rule of thumb, most clients achieve their desired underarm laser hair removal results within 6 to 10 sessions. That said, individual results vary based on several factors:
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Hair colour | Darker hair absorbs laser energy more readily |
| Skin Tone | Fitzpatrick scale guides laser settings for safety |
| Hair Thickness | Coarser hair may require more sessions |
| Hormonal Influences | Certain conditions can affect regrowth cycles |
| Hair Growth Cycle | Laser only targets actively growing follicles |
Sessions are spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart to catch each follicle in its active growth stage. Your clinician will build a personalised plan at your free consultation.
Your Guide to Underarm Laser Hair Removal Prep and Aftercare
Before your session
How To: Underarm Laser Preparation
- Shave 12 to 24 hours before your appointment. Do not wax, epilate, or use depilatory creams.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning (including fake tan) for at least two weeks prior.
- Skip deodorant on the day and arrive with clean, product-free skin.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid post-treatment friction.
- Inform your clinician of any medications or recent skin treatments.
After your session
Post-Laser Underarm Aftercare
- Avoid heat, steam, and exercise for 24 to 48 hours after treatment.
- No deodorant for 24 hours post-session; use a fragrance-free alternative if needed.
- Apply a cool compress to ease any redness or mild swelling.
- Avoid swimming for 24 to 48 hours.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen on any sun-exposed areas, as skin will be more light-sensitive.
- Do not pick, scratch, or exfoliate the area for at least 48 hours.
Applying Candela Laser Across the Fitzpatrick Scale
At Results Laser Clinic, we use the Candela GentleLase Pro and Candela GentleYag Pro, medical-grade platforms suited to a wide range of skin tones across the Fitzpatrick Scale.
| Fitzpatrick Type | Skin Description | Recommended Device |
|---|---|---|
| Type I to II | Very fair to fair | Candela GentleLase Pro (Alexandrite) |
| Type III to IV | Medium to olive | GentleLase Pro / GentleYag Pro |
| Type V to VI | Brown to very deep | Candela GentleYag Pro (Nd:YAG) |
The GentleYag Pro uses a longer wavelength that safely targets the follicle on deeper skin tones, where older laser systems often fall short. Both platforms feature a patented Dynamic Cooling Device that reduces treatment discomfort significantly.
Your Cost Estimate Breakdown: Underarm Shaving vs Laser
The Long-term Cost of Underarm Shaving
Shaving feels cheap until you add it up:
- Razors: $20 to $30 every 4 to 6 weeks
- Shaving cream or gel: $5 to $10 per month
- Estimated 10-year spend: $1,500 to $3,000+
That figure doesn't account for time spent, or the ongoing cost of treating razor rash and ingrown hairs.
How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost in Australia?
The cost of a laser hair removal treatment in Australia varies based on several factors. This includes but isn’t limited to the size of the treatment area, and the equipment used. As a rule of thumb, the price for laser hair removal can range anywhere from $50 to $500 with each treatment.
Get RLC’s cost breakdown below:
Shaving, 10 years
$1,500–$3,000+
Razors and shaving cream or gel
vs
Underarm laser, full course
$186–$248
6 to 8 sessions at $31 each
A full course of 6 to 8 sessions comes to approximately $186 to $248 for the underarm area, a fraction of what most clients spend on shaving consumables in a single year.
Rethinking Traditional Underarm Hair Removal? Enquire Today!
At Results Laser Clinic, our clinicians will assess your skin tone, hair type, and goals to build a personalised underarms laser treatment plan. Beyond underarms, our laser treatments extend to legs, arms, brazilian and more. With 70+ clinics nation-wide, finding a laser treatment clinic near you has never been more convenient.
Call 02 7809 8898 or book online now!
FAQs
Does Underarm Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
The underarm has thinner skin than other body parts, so some sensitivity is normal. Most clients describe the sensation as a quick snap, considerably more comfortable than waxing. The built-in Dynamic Cooling Device on our Candela platforms reduces discomfort with each pulse, and sessions are brief enough that any sensation passes quickly.
How Long Does Each Session Take?
Underarm sessions typically take 10 to 20 minutes, making it one of the most time-efficient treatments we offer.
How Often Do I Need to Do Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
When clients ask how many sessions for underarm laser they need, the answer depends on your individual hair and skin profile. Sessions are generally spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart to align with the hair's natural growth cycle. After completing your initial course, occasional maintenance once or twice a year can keep results consistent.
Is Underarm Laser Suitable for Deeper Skin Complexions?
Yes. The Candela GentleYag Pro is specifically designed for medium to deep skin tones and works safely where older laser systems carry higher risk. A free consultation is the best starting point if you have questions about suitability for your complexion.
