Frequently asked · written by Mikki, Aldgate
Your questions, answered straight.
The 38 questions clients ask us most, about laser hair removal, waxing, brows and lashes — and how booking, prices and policies work. No fluff, no sales theatre, just honest answers from a working City of London clinic.
Mikki's Wax Bar is a licensed laser hair removal and waxing clinic at 10 Minories, Aldgate, in the City of London — one minute from Aldgate Underground. We use a real 800nm diode laser, treat all skin tones including Fitzpatrick V–VI, and one named specialist sees you through every session. Below are straight answers to the questions we hear most.
Laser hair removal · the basics
How laser actually works.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
Most clients describe it as a quick, warm flick — like a light elastic-band snap — not the sharp pull of waxing. Our 800nm diode cools the skin to 5°C as it works, so it stays very tolerable, and it gets easier each session as the hair grows finer.
How does laser hair removal work?
A diode laser sends a precise wavelength of light into the pigment in each hair. The follicle absorbs it as heat, which disables its ability to regrow. Because hair grows in cycles, only follicles in their active growth phase respond — which is why a course is needed, not a single visit.
How many sessions of laser hair removal will I need?
Most people need six to eight sessions for a full result, so we run courses of six and review as we go. Hormone-driven hair (PCOS, menopause) usually needs ten to twelve. Anyone promising "done in three" is overselling — be wary of it.
Is laser hair removal permanent?
It gives permanent hair reduction — the honest, regulated term — not total removal. Expect roughly 70–80% lasting reduction on normal hair and 50–70% on hormonal hair, with regrowth that is finer and lighter. Occasional top-ups keep it smooth in the long term.
How far apart are laser sessions?
Usually four to eight weeks apart, depending on the area — faster cycles on the face, slower on the body. Spacing them correctly lets new follicles enter their growth phase so each session catches the maximum number of hairs. We set your schedule at the consultation.
Can I have laser hair removal on dark or brown skin?
Yes — it is our specialism. Our 800nm diode is one of the few systems safe for Fitzpatrick V–VI, where IPL and Alexandrite risk burns. We use lower fluence, longer pulses and a single pass, with a two-to-four-week patch-test window, to prevent hyperpigmentation.
Does laser hair removal work for PCOS or hormonal hair?
Yes, though hormone-driven hair is more stubborn. Laser can't switch off the hormones feeding the follicles, so expect 50–70% reduction over a longer course of ten to twelve sessions, plus occasional maintenance. It is still one of the most effective options for facial PCOS hair.
What's the difference between diode laser and IPL?
A diode is a true laser firing one precise, deeply-penetrating wavelength; IPL scatters a broad spectrum of weaker light. Diode is more effective, more comfortable, and far safer on darker skin. If a "laser" deal looks unusually cheap, it is almost always IPL.
Which areas can be treated with laser?
Almost anywhere: face (lip, chin, cheeks), underarms, arms, legs, back, chest, stomach and intimate areas. Intimate-area laser is a ladies-only service here. Full per-area prices for women and men are public on the pricing page.
Is laser hair removal safe? Are there side effects?
Yes, when performed by a trained practitioner on the correct settings. Mild redness or warmth for a few hours is normal. Serious effects are rare and nearly always come from wrong settings or an untrained operator — which is exactly why a patch test and a Level 4 specialist matter.
Laser hair removal · prep & aftercare
Before and after your session.
How do I prepare for a laser hair removal session?
Shave the area 24 hours before — never wax, pluck or epilate, because the laser needs the root in place. Avoid sun, fake tan and sunbeds for two weeks beforehand, and arrive with clean skin: no lotion, oil or deodorant on the area being treated.
Should I shave or wax before laser?
Always shave, never wax. The laser targets the pigment in the root, so the follicle has to be there. Waxing or plucking removes it and wastes the session. Between treatments the rule is the same — shave as often as you like, but don't wax.
What is the aftercare after laser hair removal?
For 48 hours avoid heat — hot showers, gym, sauna and swimming — and don't scrub or exfoliate. For two weeks keep the area out of the sun and wear SPF. Some redness or tiny bumps are normal. Between sessions, shave, never wax.
Can I have laser hair removal in summer or with a tan?
Laser and tanned skin don't mix — a tan, real or fake, raises the burn risk. You'll need two weeks clear of sun and self-tan before and after each session. Laser is easiest in autumn and winter, but year-round is fine with sensible sun care.
Why do I need a patch test before laser?
It checks how your skin responds before we treat a full area, so we can set the laser safely for you. It is free, required before your first treatment, and bookable with your consultation. On darker skin we use a longer two-to-four-week patch-test window.
Can I have laser hair removal while pregnant?
We don't treat during pregnancy — not because it is proven harmful, but because hormones make results unpredictable and we prefer to err on the side of caution. We're happy to consult and start your course once you've had your baby.
Waxing
Waxing, answered honestly.
How long does my hair need to be before waxing?
About a quarter-inch — roughly two to three weeks of growth, or the size of a grain of rice. Shorter and the wax can't grip; much longer and we simply trim it first, at no charge. If you're unsure, let it grow rather than shave.
Does waxing hurt?
There's a brief sting as the wax lifts, strongest on your first visit and on coarse or intimate hair. It is over in a second. It eases a great deal with regular waxing as regrowth comes back finer, and an experienced therapist working quickly makes a real difference.
Hot wax or strip wax — which is better?
Neither overall; they suit different areas. Lycon hot wax shrink-wraps the hair only and lifts off without a strip, so it is gentler on intimate and sensitive areas. Strip wax is faster over large areas like legs, arms and backs. We use both.
How often should I get waxed?
Every three to six weeks for most people, following your own regrowth. Keeping to a regular rhythm trains the hair to grow back finer and more in sync, so each wax is cleaner and more comfortable than the one before.
Can I shave between wax appointments?
Best not to. Shaving resets the growth cycle and brings back coarse, blunt stubble, which undoes the syncing that makes waxing better over time. If regrowth is patchy, let it grow to a quarter-inch rather than reaching for a razor.
How do I prevent ingrown hairs after waxing?
Exfoliate gently two to three times a week (starting 48 hours after your wax), moisturise daily, and wear loose clothing straight afterwards. Regular waxing itself reduces ingrowns over time, because regrowth gradually becomes finer and softer.
Do you offer intimate and men's waxing?
Yes. We do everything from a basic bikini to Brazilian and Hollywood with gentle Lycon hot wax, plus a full range of men's waxing including back, chest and shoulders. Intimate waxing for women is a regular part of the menu.
Brows, lashes & threading
Brows, lashes & threading.
How long does a brow or lash tint last?
A brow tint lasts roughly two to three weeks on the hair; a lash tint around four to six weeks, fading gradually as the hairs shed. Both are quick and painless, and need a patch test at least 24 hours before your first appointment.
What is an LVL lash lift and how long does it last?
LVL lifts and straightens your natural lashes from the root and tints them, so they look longer, darker and fuller — no extensions, no mascara. It lasts around six to eight weeks as your lashes naturally grow out. A patch test is required first.
What is WoW Brows?
WoW Brows is a semi-permanent brow tint-and-shape treatment that stains the skin as well as the hairs, giving a fuller, defined "just-filled-in" brow without daily make-up. It typically lasts about two weeks on the skin and longer on the hair. See brows & lashes.
Do you offer brow lamination?
We don't — it's a deliberate choice, because the lifting chemicals can stress and weaken brow hair over time. For a fuller, groomed brow we recommend WoW Brows, tinting and precise threading or waxing instead, which give a similar effect while keeping your brows healthy.
Threading or waxing for brows — which is better?
Both shape beautifully; it comes down to your skin and your preference. Threading is precise and gentle, ideal for sensitive skin and detailed brow work; waxing is quick and clean over larger or fuzzier areas. Manisha will advise on the day.
Why do tints and lash lifts need a patch test?
The dyes and lifting solutions can occasionally trigger a reaction, so we place a small dot of product on your inner arm at least 24 hours beforehand. It is a quick, free safety step we won't skip — for any first tint, LVL lash lift or WoW Brows.
Booking, prices & policies
Booking, prices & policies.
Where are you and how do I get there?
We're at 10 Minories, Aldgate, London EC3N 1BJ — about one minute on foot from Aldgate Underground (Circle & Metropolitan lines) and a short walk from Aldgate East, Tower Hill, Tower Gateway and Fenchurch Street. Full directions.
What are your opening hours?
Monday to Friday 9am–7pm, Saturday 10am–6pm and Sunday 11am–4pm — built around City working hours so you can come before work, at lunch or after. Contact details.
How do I book an appointment?
Book online any time through our booking page, which opens our live calendar. Prefer to talk it through first? Call 020 8109 7007 or message us on WhatsApp for enquiries. New clients usually start with a free consultation.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes — your consultation and laser patch test are free, with no obligation to book a course. You'll get an honest skin assessment, a realistic plan and transparent pricing. No packages pushed, no commission, no pressure.
How much does laser, waxing and brows cost?
Laser starts at £35 a session for small areas; waxing from £6; brow and lash treatments from around £14. Every laser and treatment course of six is the price of five. Full per-area prices are public on the pricing page.
What is your cancellation policy?
More than 24 hours' notice: a full refund or a free rebooking. Less than 24 hours, or a no-show: charged in full and non-refundable. Inside a course, that session counts as used. It keeps the calendar fair for everyone.
Do course sessions expire?
Never. Buy a course and you can spread the sessions across whatever timeframe suits you — there is no clock, and we don't bin unused sessions. See the pricing page.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes — for any amount, redeemable against any treatment, and they never expire. They're a popular gift for laser courses, waxing or brows. Buy a gift voucher.
Is there an offer for new clients?
Yes — new clients get 20% off their first treatment (applied to the most expensive treatment in your first booking). There's also a refer-a-friend offer that gives you and your friend £10 off each. See offers.
Still wondering?
Ask us directly.
If your question isn't here, the quickest answer is a free consultation — no obligation. Call 020 8109 7007, message us on WhatsApp, or email info@mikkiwaxbar.co.uk.
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