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Get Treated for Hair Removal

Get your Hair Removal treatment* online in a few simple steps, without having to see your doctor. Our virtual care service connects you to highly trained clinicians who can assess your health needs and safely prescribe the right medication for you.
* Includes Free Private Prescription & Consultation

GET TREATED CONVENIENTLY

Available Treatments for Hair Removal

  • Vaniqa

    Vaniqa

    • →FREE secure consultation service
    • →Fast and effective treatment
    • →FREE tracked and signed delivery
    From £79.89

SAFE PRESCRIBING

Get Started With the Right Treatment for You

Getting treated privately is a service designed for individuals who are looking to get treated for a medical condition from the comfort of their own home. Get connected with one of our clinicians to start your assessment. It’s FREE and you only pay for medication that is prescribed. This service is regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council in the UK.

MEDICAL INFORMATION

Hair Removal Key Facts

Aseel Hamoud Bedan NowPatientGreen tick
Medically reviewed by Aseel Hamoud Bedan, MBChB
Written by
History
September 17, 2025 (Current Version)
September 3, 2025
Written by
Medically Reviewed by
August 18, 2025
Written by
Medically Reviewed by

Hair removal

Unwanted hair can affect how you look and feel about yourself. Luckily there are many ways to help you get that hair-free smooth skin. Shaving, threading, plucking, epilators and other more advanced treatments such as laser hair removal and electrolysis.

Here, we will look at some of the more popular hair removal methods, how effective they are and their potential side effects. Wherever you’re removing hair from, this guide will help you make the best choice for you.

Understanding hair growth

Hair growth begins under the skin in our hair follicles. It varies from person to person and is affected by our genetics, hormones, and overall state of health.

The two main types of hair on our bodies are

  • Vellus hair: Soft, fine, short hair, found on the chest, back, and face
  • Terminal hair: Coarse, dark, long hair, normally found on our scalps, underarms, and pubic area

Temporary hair removal methods

Shaving

Shaving is the most common method of hair removal. It uses a razor or electric shaver to cut the hair off at the skin’s surface and is effective for leg, arm, and facial hair. It is however, a temporary measure.

  • Shaving is affordable and convenient, and suitable for large treatment areas
  • Shaving can cause razor burns, ingrown hairs, stubble regrowth, and requires frequent maintenance
  • You should use a sharp razor and moisturise the skin before shaving and shave in the direction of hair growth

Plucking

Plucking involves pulling each hair out individually using tweezers. This is a good way to remove hair from eyebrows or stray hairs on the face. This provides longer-lasting results as it removes the entire hair shaft.

  • Plucking is not expensive, but is precise. It is particularly effective for shaping eyebrows
  • This can be time-consuming and painful. Ingrown hairs and scarring may occur if not done correctly. It is not recommended for hair removal from larger areas
  • Tweezers should be sterilised before and after use for good hygiene

Hair removal creams

Hair removal creams (depilatory creams), are applied to the skin. Hair removal creams contain chemicals that work by dissolving the hair shaft, allowing the hair to be wiped away.

  • Hair removal creams are easy to use, affordable, and provide longer-lasting results compared to shaving. They can be used on various parts of the body
  • Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to the chemicals in depilatory creams. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and perform a patch test before applying the cream to larger areas
  • Read the product labels to ensure you are using the right cream for the intended area. Test a small area of skin first to check for any adverse reactions. Be cautious not to exceed the recommended application time to avoid skin burns

Waxing

Waxing provides longer-lasting results than shaving or creams, as it removes the hair from the follicle.

  • Waxing leaves the skin smooth and hair-free for several weeks. It can be done at home or by a professional. Waxing can be used on various body parts, including the legs, bikini area, and upper lip. Use moisturisers or lotions after treatment to soothe your skin
  • Waxing can be painful, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. Improper waxing technique can lead to skin burns, redness, and ingrown hairs. It is not recommended for individuals using certain acne medications or with certain skin conditions
  • Ensure the hair is long enough for effective waxing (around ¼ inch). Apply the wax in the direction of hair growth and remove the strip quickly against the direction of hair growth. Consider seeking professional waxing services for sensitive areas or if you are new to waxing

Long-lasting hair removal methods

Laser hair removal

This method of hair removal is more long-term. It uses an intense pulsed light (IPL) to destroy hair follicles, disrupting their growth. The laser heats the pigment in hair follicles, preventing it from regrowing. Laser therapy is mainly used on areas such as the chest, arms, underarms, legs, face, and bikini line.

Treated areas can develop rashes. Using a cool ice pack on the skin will help reduce the redness and swelling, as well as giving pain relief. Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area after treatment as your skin will be more sensitive. Also, use sunscreen (SPF30) for at least 4 weeks after treatment on treated areas, regardless of the weather.

Laser hair removal can have side effects, including:

  • Tenderness, pain, or discomfort
  • Reddening or swelling of the skin
  • Blistering, crusting, or bruising
  • Change in colour of the skin, either lightening or darkening
  • Scarring
  • Burns from the laser
  • Bacterial infections

The cost of laser treatment will depend on the area of the body you have treated and how many treatments you need.

  • Laser hair removal offers long-lasting results, with many individuals experiencing permanent hair reduction over multiple sessions. It can be used on larger areas of the body and is suitable for most skin types. There’s no evidence, suggesting laser hair removal causes skin cancer
  • Laser hair removal can be expensive and may require several sessions to achieve the desired results. Laser hair removal is safe, but some individuals may experience side effects such as temporary skin redness, swelling, or pain and discomfort after treatment that may last for some time. Laser therapy may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with certain skin types. Laser hair removal does not work as well on darker skin tones. It works better on those with pale skin and dark hair. It is not as effective on tanned skin or hair that has been bleached by the sun. You will need to let your tan fade before having laser treatment. Also, it is not guaranteed that laser hair removal will remove of all the hair
  • Choose a reputable clinic or provider with experienced professionals. Follow the recommended treatment schedule and avoid sun exposure before and after laser sessions to minimize the risk of complications

You will need further treatments depending on you as an individual and the part of your body you are have treated. Removal of facial hair may need treating every 4 weeks, while the removal of body hair may need treating every 6 to 8 weeks.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis removes hair permanently. Needles are inserted into each hair follicle to deliver an electric current that destroys the root of the hair. There are two primary methods of electrolysis: galvanic and thermolytic. Galvanic electrolysis uses chemicals while thermolytic electrolysis uses heat.

  • This is a permanent hair removal method and is suitable for all types of skin and hair colour
  • Electrolysis may need multiple treatments making it time-consuming. It can be painful causing redness of the skin with scabbing and swelling
  • You should look for an experienced dermatologist to perform the procedure

Considerations and additional tips

  • Consider your skin type, hair colour, and preferences when choosing a hair removal method
  • Perform a patch test on a small area of skin before trying any hair removal method to check for any adverse reactions
  • Follow the instructions provided with each method of hair removal and consult a dermatologist if you have any concerns
  • If you are taking medications that may affect hair growth, speak to your healthcare provider before starting any treatments
  • Hair removal may not provide permanent results as pattern and regrowth rates can vary from person to person
  • Exfoliate and moisturise to maintain smooth and healthy skin between sessions
  • Speak to a dermatologist if you have persistent or excessive hair growth to rule out any underlying medical conditions
  • Hair removal is a personal choice. Choose the method that best suits your needs

Conclusion

There are many different techniques available for the removal of hair. When deciding you should think about how effective it will be, the cost and potential side effects of the method you are planning to use. Remember to follow the correct instructions to achieve the best results.

Speak to a hair removal specialist for recommendations tailored to you and your needs. With the right advice and knowledge, you can enjoy smooth, hair-free skin.

Sources

Medical Disclaimer

NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.

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VIRTUAL HEALTHCARE

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Service Guide

Everything You Need to Know About Getting Treated Privately for Hair Removal

What does the Get Treated Privately service for Hair Removal do?

The Get Treated Privately service is a private prescribing service which is designed for adults aged 18 years and over, who are experiencing health issues and who would like to receive a fast-track assessment and if applicable, a treatment plan from a qualified prescribing clinician. Treatments for Hair Removal are dispensed and delivered to your home or workplace from our regulated online pharmacy.

Is this a safe Hair Removal prescribing service?

Yes. Our formulary of medications prescribed for Hair Removal are controlled, governed, and continuously risk-assessed by our Medical Director, Dr Ihtesham Sabri. Unlike other prescribing services which operate using faceless questionnaires, our Hair Removal prescribing service is conducted through remote video consultations, also known as synchronous consultations. This builds patient safety and prescribing appropriateness into our service, ensuring our prescribing clinicians can be satisfied with who and what they are treating. There is no guarantee of supply of medications, and any prescriptions supplied are at the sole discretion of our clinician prescriber. There is no charge for the Hair Removal consultation.

What is a prescribing clinician and is it safe for me to use them on the NowPatient platform?

Our prescribing clinicians are board-certified pharmacists, nurses, or doctors who can also prescribe any medicine for any medical condition, subject to accepted accreditation and good clinical practice. They are all registered with their respective regulatory bodies. For example, a pharmacist independent prescriber is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Each prescribing clinician undergoes an extensive background check including a disclosure and barring service check (DBS). In addition, they undergo a rigorous license verification process. When you book an appointment with our prescribing clinicians you will see their full name, license number, and any specialized credentials they have.

Is the service available worldwide?

Yes, you can get treated privately for Hair Removal worldwide.

Do I need to pay for this service?

Yes. This is a private service. You do not need to pay for the consultation. You only pay for the cost of the Hair Removal treatment that you are prescribed.

How do I book a consultation?

Once you have logged into your account, you will need to navigate to the Get Treated Privately service card which is located as a service item on the dashboard.

Using the action button on the service card, you can select one of the following – ‘Search Treatments’ or ‘Search Conditions’. From here you can search for Hair Removal.

Depending on the search type and the product/condition that you would like to get treated, you will be taken to a consultation booking screen. Follow the simple steps to complete your booking. During the booking confirmation, you will be able to select a date and time that is convenient for you, along with the preferred language and gender of the prescribing clinician you wish to choose. You will then see a list of all available expert clinicians who are trained to assess the medication or condition chosen. Once you have confirmed your booking, you will see a summary of the appointment including preliminary information about the consultation. At this point, you will also be able to add a reminder to your calendar. Always ensure your account health profile is up to date before any consultation. This ensures that our clinicians have the most up-to-date information about your current health status and anything that may influence their prescribing decisions. You will receive a push notification, SMS notification and email reminding you of your consultation, 30 minutes before the virtual consultation is due to start.

Depending on certain medications which require our clinicians to have your up-to-date blood pressure readings, you may be required to submit a virtual blood pressure check, using your smartphone or device. We will provide you with full instructions, when this is required.

What happens during the remote video consultation?

During the consultation, the clinician will ask you a series of questions that will allow the clinician to assess your condition and potential treatment options for Hair Removal. At the end of the consultation, the clinician will decide which treatment options are safe and suitable option for you.

If it is, the clinician will discuss the treatment option, so that you can jointly agree on the treatment plan. Once you have jointly agreed on a treatment plan, the clinician will issue a prescription treatment for your Hair Removal which will be available in your Cart at the end of the consultation.

Also, with your consent, the clinician may wish to inform your doctor of the treatment that was prescribed. We recommend that you agree to this since your doctor is responsible for your overall care and they should have a record of this consultation and medication prescribed. In addition, our clinician may take the opportunity to advise you on your overall health including advice on healthy living or stop smoking.

What happens at the end of the Hair Removal consultation?

At the end of the consultation, you will receive a notification which will summarise the outcome. It will also advise you if any referrals were made to your doctor, along with any other advice that was given to you by the clinician.

If a referral letter was issued to your doctor, you will be able to view a copy of this in the ‘Documents’ section of the dashboard.

If you were prescribed a treatment, it will now be available in your Cart.

When you go to your Cart, you will be able to select the treatment, checkout and make payment. Once the checkout is complete, your prescription order will be sent to our regulated online pharmacy for processing.

What if the prescriber does not prescribe a treatment for Hair Removal?

We operate a safe prescribing service. This means that our prescribing clinicians always exercise their clinical judgment when prescribing . Unfortunately, we do not operate a self select service where you can choose a medication and simply buy. If the clinician that sees you does not prescribe anything, then you will not be charged.

Will I get status updates for my order?

Yes. When your Hair Removal treatment is approved, and after you have checked out and paid for your order, we will keep you fully updated with the status of your order. Every time the status of your order changes, you will be notified immediately. These notifications will appear in the ‘Notification Feed’ section on the dashboard.

How will my Hair Removal treatment be delivered?

All orders are shipped in discreet and unmarked packaging. This means it is suitable for delivery wherever you require (home, work, or a neighbour).

For thermo-sensitive orders (e.g. Insulin or weight loss injections) we use cold chain-validated packaging. Your parcel will normally receive an estimated delivery window from the courier on the day of delivery.

For your protection and safety, your first order can only be delivered to the address that is registered with NowPatient. Future orders can be delivered to any other address, for example, your workplace.

Do you ship cold-chain or temperature sensitive products?

Yes. We use a specialist courier service for all thermo-sensitive deliveries. This is to ensure that cold chain integrity is always maintained and thus the product quality, safety and efficacy.

Learn more about how we handle the delivery of temperature sensitive products.

Where do you deliver?

We currently deliver to all postcodes/zipcodes worldwide. Some postcodes in rural areas may have a slightly longer delivery time.

When will my order arrive?

We aim to ship all orders placed Monday – Friday before 3pm on the same day. Orders placed outside these times will be shipped the next working day. All deliveries are shipped by Royal Mail, which delivers Monday through Saturday in the UK. For deliveries outside of the UK, please check with your national postal service for accurate delivery days.

Our delivery options have the following delivery times:

  • UK – Royal Mail Tracked 24 & Signed for Delivery – Next day delivery
  • Europe – Royal Mail Tracked – Typical delivery of 3-5 working days
  • Worldwide – Royal Mail – Typical delivery of 5-7 working days. If a tracked option is available for your country via Royal Mail, this service will be applied.

What should I do if my order has not arrived?

Delivery is normally made promptly after your dispatch notification is received. You can check the tracking details of your Hair Removal order in the ‘Notification Feed’ section of the dashboard, at any point after dispatch.

Unfortunately, packages can sometimes get lost in the delivery system. If after 10 days you have not received your delivery, please contact us and we will do all we can to resolve the problem.

Can you prescribe GLP-1 weight loss injections?

Yes. However, with GLP-1 weight loss medications, the license requires that there are support resources put in place as part of the plan including coaching for a healthy lifestyle, exercise, and diet. Our clinicians will discuss this with you, if you are prescribed this type of treatment.

You can learn more on our Weight Loss Programs feature page.

What’s included with my order?

If you are ordering a treatment for Hair Removal, your order will contain your medication only.

If you are ordering weight loss injections, your order will contain:

  • Your prescription of pre-filled weight loss injection pens
  • Needles
  • Sharps bin for safe disposal of needles (if ordered as part of the bundle)

Can I reorder my medication, if I have already been prescribed a course?

Yes. However, as a responsible prescribing service, we do not issue more than one monthly cycle of medication at a time.

This means that, if you would like to reorder, you will need to rebook a consultation.

This is important, because it allows our clinicians to keep track on the progress of your treatment plan and ensure that the medication remains safe and effective for you.

What is the earliest I can reorder my medication or treatment?

14 days after you have received your first monthly supply of medication, we will send you a notification to advise you that you are eligible to reorder your medication. To ensure that we are able to safely prescribe the Hair Removal medication for the next supply, you will need to rebook a consultation.

This ensures that our clinician can check in on your treatment plan and ensure it is working as intended and continues to be safe, suitable and appropriate for you.

How do I reorder my Hair Removal?

When you are eligible to reorder your next Hair Removal prescription, we will send you a notification reminder. This notification reminder will request that you book a consultation with a NowPatient Clinician.

You should book a suitable time and date for the consultation.

At the end of the consultation, the clinician may advise you to either

  • Stop the treatment
  • Stay on the current dose
  • Increase the dose

If our clinician deems it safe for you to continue the medication used to treat Hair Removal, the prescription will be added to your cart, from where you can checkout.

Delivery will be made in line with our delivery timescales.

As a responsible prescribing service, we will always monitor your Hair Removal treatment plan to ensure that it remains safe, effective and suitable for you.

How do I reorder weight loss medication?

Our weight loss programs are built to closely monitor treatment progress and safety. Please refer to the Weight Loss Programs Service Guide that explains how you can reorder or step edit your dose.