5 Things You Need To Know Before Getting Laser Hair Removal
Patience Is Key
It will take two or three weeks to see results from your first treatment, and 8-12 weeks to get the full results. You will also have to be very regular with your appointments since your hair follicles are all at different stages of growth, therefore, you want to make sure every single one of them gets zapped. Although this sounds like a long process, it will save you so much time and headaches in the future since you will not have to worry about waxing or shaving for a very long time.
Shave But Do Not Wax Before your Appointment
Shaving before your appointment will allow the laser to easily penetrate the skin and target the hair follicles beneath. If you do not shave, the laser will not be as effective as it will have a hard time penetrating through the coarse hair to get to the follicle. It is recommended you shave 24 hours - 48 hours before your appointment to ensure optimal results. You cannot wax since waxing removes the hair follicle, therefore, the laser will have nothing to target to achieve permanent hair removal results.
Treatments Are Quick
Don’t expect to have to sit in a chair for hours on end while your technician targets every individual hair follicle. Laser hair removal methods have advanced technology to allow the laser to cover large surface areas on the body. It will only take roughly 25-30 minutes to laser both legs whereas underarm treatments may only take 5 to 7 minutes at most.
Avoid The Sun
Avoid exposing the treatment area to the sun both before and after your laser hair removal sessions. The sun will increase your skin's sensitivity and may cause burns and hyperpigmentation when the laser is applied. It is also important to avoid exposing the area to the sun after treatment since the skin will be much more sensitive from the laser treatment and will be more susceptible to the harsh effects of UV rays.
You Might Need Touch-Up Treatments In The Future
Laser hair removal is correctly known as laser hair reduction as the laser significantly reduces the volume and density of the hair, but there will always be some hair follicles allowing some regrowth. Most people report a 90 percent permanent reduction in hair growth but fluctuating hormones can make hair grow back. You may need touch-ups over the years as some hair starts to regrow once again.
Kelowna Laser Hair Removal
Hair removal for many is a downright pain to upkeep. Regular shaving will still leave you with prickly regrowth, red bumps, and unsightly and irritating ingrown hairs. Laser hair removal offers a permanent hair reduction method that allows you not to worry about shaving or waxing for long periods of time. Although the process does take some time, the results are entirely worth it. With laser hair removal you can say goodbye to those annoying ingrown hairs and the prickly feeling of hair growing back.
To find out more about the costs and benefits of our laser hair removal services for both men and women, and how we can help you achieve smooth and silky skin, visit our Kelowna clinic today! See map here. Alternatively, you can reach us by calling (250) 868-9290 or by filling out our online contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does laser hair removal hurt?
Most patients describe the feeling of laser hair removal as being snapped with a rubber band continuously. The discomfort is manageable, but topical numbing creams can be applied to make the treatment more tolerable.
How many sessions will I need?
How many sessions you require will depend on the area you are having treated and your hair type. Typically, most people require 4-8 sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart.
Can I have a fake tan on while getting laser hair removal?
No, you cannot. It is recommended that you do not use fake tan for at least 3 weeks prior to your appointment. The area should be carefully exfoliated to remove all residues to ensure that the laser can adequately target the hair follicles.
FAQs
It does not eliminate hair, it REDUCES hair
A common misconception is that laser hair removal is a permanent solution, but the reality is that its a semi-permanent solution. You can expect up to a 90% reduction in hair growth and thickness, to the point where you won't need to shave as much.
What should I do before laser hair removal? ›
What to do before laser hair removal
- Consider your medical history. Before getting a laser hair removal treatment, it's essential to assess your medical history. ...
- Limit sun exposure. ...
- Don't wax or tweeze the treatment area. ...
- Shave the treatment area. ...
- Stop bleaching your hair. ...
- Arrive with a clean skin. ...
- Wear loose clothing.
5 Things You Need To Know Before Getting Laser Hair Removal
- Patience Is Key. It will take two or three weeks to see results from your first treatment, and 8-12 weeks to get the full results. ...
- Shave But Do Not Wax Before your Appointment. ...
- Treatments Are Quick. ...
- Avoid The Sun. ...
- You Might Need Touch-Up Treatments In The Future.
It does not eliminate hair, it REDUCES hair
A common misconception is that laser hair removal is a permanent solution, but the reality is that its a semi-permanent solution. You can expect up to a 90% reduction in hair growth and thickness, to the point where you won't need to shave as much.
How do I prepare my body for laser hair removal? ›
Any treatment areas should be shaved completely prior to treatment. Legs should be shaved around 24 hours prior to your appointment to avoid irritation. Do not wax, tweeze, epilate or use chemical depilatories for two weeks before treatment, or at all in between laser treatments.
How to get the best results from laser hair removal? ›
Here are some suggestions on how to get the most out of laser hair removal.
- Avoid Sun Exposure and Tanning: ...
- Shave before each treatment: ...
- Avoid Plucking and Waxing: ...
- Exfoliating: ...
- Follow the recommended treatment schedule: ...
- Communicate openly with your technician: ...
- Take care of your skin post-treatment:
What is the result of not shaving before laser hair removal? Heat is a key element used by the laser to remove hair so that the hair follicles' stem cells get damaged. However, hair that's too long will lead to singed hair and your skin getting burned.
Is laser hair removal really worth it? ›
Although laser hair removal effectively delays hair growth for long periods, it usually doesn't result in permanent hair removal. Multiple laser hair removal treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well.
What makes you a bad candidate for laser hair removal? ›
Who Should Avoid Laser Hair Removal. People who are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments, should avoid laser hair removal. It can also be a bad fit for people with certain skin conditions, like a history of skin cancer or keloid scars. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also put off hair removal.
Should I laser my pubic hair? ›
' Yes, it is safe to laser the pubic area for most patients. It should be noted that this is one of the more sensitive areas when it comes to laser hair removal, but it is quick and effective. Many patients also believe it is overall less painful than waxing.
Regret usually stems from choosing the wrong provider. While laser hair removal itself is rarely regrettable, what can lead to regret is choosing the wrong provider. A cheap, inexperienced clinic may use outdated equipment or incorrect techniques, leading to less effective treatment or even unwanted side-effects.
Why do I look hairier after laser hair removal? ›
The appearance of increased hair growth after laser hair removal can be concerning, but it's important to understand that this is a normal part of the treatment process. Hair shedding, hair growth cycles, and misconceptions about hair growth can all contribute to the perception of increased hairiness.
What are the negatives of laser hair removal? ›
Most people need multiple treatments. Only an experienced healthcare provider should perform this procedure. Potential side effects include burning, scarring and permanent skin discoloration.
How to shave a Brazilian area for laser? ›
Skin on your bikini area is more sensitive so you should shave gently. Shave in the direction of the hair growth first, and then you can go against the hair growth direction for a closer shave. Make sure to use special creams such as Harley Sooth (post-laser treatment balm) to eliminate the irritation.
Do and don'ts after laser treatment? ›
Avoid hot baths and hot showers for 48 hours. Avoid anything that involves chlorine (e.g. swimming) for 48 hours. Avoid make-up on the treated area for at least 48 hours. Avoid the application of perfumed products or bleaching creams for 48 hours.
Can I shave 2 hours before laser hair removal? ›
A shave 24 to 48 hours before the appointed date is important. While the hair root is invisible, the laser can seek it out within the pigment. By shaving, you reduce the chances of burns with the hair being below the skin's surface.
Should you moisturize before or after laser hair removal? ›
Yes, you can, and should, moisturise after laser hair removal. While you should not moisturise before your laser hair removal appointment, after your appointment is a different story. The best moisturisers to use after laser hair removal are perfume free. This will help to avoid excess skin irritation.
What not to take before laser hair removal? ›
“Before to laser hair removal, one should avoid taking some vitamins, herbal supplements, blood thinners, antibiotics, Accutane, and Retin-A.” It is crucial to let your doctor know about any medications or dietary supplements you are taking if you intend to undergo laser hair removal.
Should I scrub before laser hair removal? ›
It's best to exfoliate the treatment area about 1-2 days prior to your scheduled laser hair removal session. Exfoliating right before the appointment may irritate the skin and cause sensitivity. Doing it too far in advance can allow dead skin to build up again.
