If you are tired of removing unwanted hair by shaving, waxing or tweezing, and dealing with razor burns, ingrown hair, 5 o’clock shadows, and weekly salon trips, a laser hair removal treatment would be the best solution for you.
But before you bid goodbye to your razors, wax strips, tweezers and hair removal creams, here’s every info you need to know before booking your first appointment:
It works on all skin tones.
Often, people with darker skin tones are discouraged from undergoing laser hair removal treatments due to some myths that laser is not safe for this skin type.
While it’s true that laser light is attracted to pigment, recent advances have made it possible for laser to penetrate deep into the skin, targeting just the pigment in the hair. If you are a woman or man of color, the best type of laser for you is Nd-Yag laser.
Yes, it hurts.
Just like waxing and threading, laser hair removal hurts too. But don’t worry because laser treatments come with a cooling technology that can help lessen the pain and discomfort. Expect more pain on sensitive areas such as bikini and underarms, as well as bony areas like the lower leg, knees, elbows, fingers and toes.
Don’t worry though, it’s not THAT bad, and trust me, it’s worth the pain. 😉
No waxing, threading or tweezing before the session.
For laser to work, the hair follicle needs to be intact. That’s why shaving is fine, but waxing, epilating, tweezing and threading are no-no’s prior to your session. If you did one of these methods, you need to wait at least 4 weeks before you can have your treatment.
Certain medications are contraindicated.
Photosensitive drugs such as acne medications, antidepressants and antihistamines should be avoided if you want to undergo laser hair removal treatments because these contain photoreactive agents that cause them to react to UV light. Depending on the skin type, reactions usually take place in the skin. If you are on any medication, it’s best to see your Dermatologist first for consultation.
No tanning before and after treatment.
Sorry, but you can’t do your sessions while you have a sunburn or your tan on. You need to give it at least four weeks before and after treatment, because you will put yourself at risk for burns, pigment alterations and skin irritations. If you want to be hair-free all summer long, you need to start doing your sessions during fall and winter time.
Multiple treatments are required.
Our hair grows in different stages and laser is only effective during the anagen or growth phase, so you need multiple treatments (around 4 to 6 sessions) to get the result that you desire, every four weeks. Remember, laser doesn’t work like magic, your hair won’t vanish completely after just one session.
Laser is not that complicated but I recommend that you should book a consultation first with a certified treatment provider for them to make a customized treatment plan that is suited for your skin and hair type.
