Why Do Some Laser Hair Removal Clinics Charge £20 And Others Charge £120?
If you’ve looked into laser hair removal recently, you’ve probably noticed something confusing.
One clinic advertises underarms for £20.
Another charges £85.
Some are £120 or more.
So what’s actually going on?
Is it the same treatment everywhere?
Is one clinic overpriced?
Or is the cheaper option cutting corners?
Let’s unpack this properly — because prices across the South West vary massively, and here are the real reasons why.
1. Not All “Laser Hair Removal” Is Actually Laser
Many clinics advertise laser hair removal — but they are actually using IPL (Intense Pulsed Light).
IPL is not a laser.
The simplest way to understand the difference:
Laser = a laser beam
Focused. Precise. Controlled.
IPL = a torch
Light spreads everywhere.
IPL devices are often “jack-of-all-trades” machines. With interchangeable filters they can treat:
- Skin rejuvenation
- Thread veins
- Pigmentation
- Acne
They are versatile.
But versatility is not precision.
They are completely different technologies and should not be considered equivalent.
At Perfection Medispa in Foxley, we use the Gold Standard, globally recognised Lumenis LightSheer, a medical-grade diode laser designed purely for hair removal.
It has one job.
Hair reduction.
And it does it exceptionally well.
If you are getting laser very cheaply, please ask what you are actually being treated with.
- Is it a genuine laser — or an IPL device?
- What brand is it?
- Where has it come from?
- Is it backed by a reputable manufacturer with proper servicing and safety support?
Laser hair removal is not the place to gamble.
When performed incorrectly or with inappropriate equipment, complications such as burns or pigmentation changes can occur.
That’s why asking the right questions is so important — and you should never feel embarrassed to ask them.
2. The Machine Investment (The Part You Don’t See)
Our LightSheer cost tens of thousands of pounds.
We also choose to pay over £500 every single month to keep it fully serviced, calibrated and compliant.
We didn’t buy the cheapest option.
We didn’t choose a multi-use device that “does a bit of everything.”
We invested in a dedicated medical-grade laser because we are committed to delivering the best possible results — without compromise.
That level of investment reflects our standards.
We are not interested in cutting corners.
We are interested in:
- Consistency
- Safety
- Predictable results
- Long-term outcomes
- Protecting your skin
If something goes wrong with the machine, we receive priority support.
If a handpiece fails, it is replaced quickly.
Your treatment plan is not disrupted.
Your results are not delayed.
That ongoing commitment is a choice.
3. What Laser Does Differently
Laser energy is focused.
It travels down the hair shaft and targets the follicle.
Because the energy is concentrated:
- More heat reaches the root
- Less heat spreads into surrounding skin
- Results are quicker and more consistent
With IPL, light spreads across the skin.
That can mean:
- Less energy reaches the follicle
- More sessions are required
- More heat remains in surrounding tissue
The technologies are fundamentally different.
4. Experience, Hormones & Ongoing Training Matter
Laser hair removal isn’t about blasting the highest setting.
It’s about selecting the correct parameters for:
- Your skin tone
- Your hair thickness
- Your hormones
- Your treatment area
We opened in 2011.
We have been practising laser hair removal for over ten years and have treated thousands of happy clients.
We understand that factors such as PCOS, perimenopause and hormonal changes can significantly affect hair growth — and treatment plans must be adjusted accordingly.
Experience allows us to recognise these patterns and treat safely and effectively.
We also invest in regular CPD (Continuing Professional Development) training for our entire team so they remain at the top of their game with current safety standards and evolving treatment knowledge.
Because results are intentional.
And we are passionate about getting you the outcome you deserve.
5. Why Some Cheap Treatments End Up Costing More
If a lower-priced clinic requires:
12–14 sessions
But a medical-grade diode laser averages:
6–8 sessions (depending on area and hormones)
The total investment may end up similar — or higher.
Lower cost per session doesn’t always equal lower cost overall.
We often meet clients who believe “laser didn’t work.”
Often, it wasn’t laser.
Be cautious with heavily discounted ‘laser’ treatments purchased through deal platforms such as Groupon or Wowcher.
If something seems dramatically cheaper than the rest of the market, it’s reasonable to ask why.
Laser hair removal is a medical-grade treatment — not a flash sale.
6. What If Your Hair Is Blonde, Red Or Grey?
Laser targets pigment (colour).
If your hair has little pigment, laser will not work effectively.
That’s why we also offer Apilus Electrolysis, an FDA-approved permanent hair removal solution that works on all hair colours and skin types.
Having both technologies allows us to create bespoke Permanent Hair Removal Plans tailored to you.
Questions You Should Ask Before Booking Laser Hair Removal
Before choosing a clinic, ask these questions:
- Is it laser or IPL?
- What machine are you using?
- Is it supported by a reputable manufacturer?
- Are you licensed by the local council?
- Do you carry out mandatory patch testing before treatment?
- How long is your consultation and what does it include?
- How long have you been performing laser hair removal?
- What training do your practitioners have?
- Do you invest in ongoing CPD training?
- What happens if my hair doesn’t respond?
- Do you offer electrolysis if my hair has low pigment?
- How many sessions do you typically see for this area?
- What happens if I experience a reaction?
- Have you got before and after photos?
- Does your machine focus purely on hair removal or is it multi-functional?
A professional clinic will answer these comfortably and clearly.
Transparency should never feel awkward.
You only get one skin — and it deserves careful, experienced hands.
Where Perfection Medispa Fits
At Perfection Medispa in Foxley:
- We have been established since 2011
- We have been practising laser hair removal for over ten years
- We are the largest and most experienced clinic in our area, with five private treatment rooms and a dedicated team of 15
- We are licensed by Wiltshire Council
- We are BABTAC registered
- We carry out mandatory patch testing before every course
- We use a medical-grade Lumenis LightSheer laser
- We invest in ongoing CPD training for our entire team
- We can permanently treat both dark and light hairs with our bespoke Permanent Hair Removal Plans
- We have over 500 five-star Google reviews
Many of our laser clients travel to Foxley from:
- Gloucester
- Thornbury
- Stroud
- Cirencester
- Swindon
- Bristol
People don’t travel for “cheap.”
They travel for trust, safety and results.
The Bottom Line
Laser hair removal pricing varies because:
- Technology varies
- Regulation varies
- Experience varies
- Infrastructure varies
- Session numbers vary
- Training varies
Before booking based purely on price, just make sure you know exactly what you’re paying for — and who you’re trusting with your skin.
Because while saving money feels good in the moment, correcting poor results is always harder than getting it right the first time.
You only get one skin.
We take that responsibility seriously.
If you’d like to experience the difference for yourself, we offer a free laser hair removal taster session so you can feel confident before committing.
If you’d just like to have a proper chat about whether laser is right for you, please click here.
We would genuinely be delighted to help you.
