Laser hair removal is one of the most effective procedures for achieving hair-free, smooth, and silky skin without any harsh side effects or downtime.
The procedure involves using a laser device to deliver pulses of light energy into the unwanted hairs. The pigment in the hair absorbs the light, killing the hair follicle’s roots, thereby stopping hair growth. Most people achieve permanently 75% hair reduction in just a few sessions
Here are some frequently asked questions:
1. Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
For most people, laser hair removal does not hurt. However, it all depends on your threshold for pain. Most people say that it feels like snapping a rubber band against the skin. But if you’re overly sensitive to pain, you may experience some minor discomfort.
Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the discomfort. Prepare properly and follow a strict before care and aftercare program. This will reduce pain and provide the most effective results.
2. What kind of laser device do you use?
We use the 808 wavelength diode laser, an FDA-approved laser device that removes unwanted hair without damaging the surrounding skin. The biggest advantage of the 808 wavelength diode laser is that it can be adjusted according to your specific skin type and color for maximum efficiency and results. Furthermore, the laser energy is only absorbed by the unwanted hair, leaving the surrounding skin untouched and unhurt.
3. Am I a suitable candidate for laser hair removal?
Age: Laser hair removal is suitable for men and women over 18 years of age.
Skin Type: The diode laser works for all skin types, but we recommend it for skin types 1 to 5 according to the Fitzpatrick scale. Skin type 1 refers to extremely light skin, and skin type 5 refers to dark brown skin. While the diode laser is also safe for skin type 6 (deeply pigmented dark brown), the hair removal results might not be optimal.
Hair Color: The laser energy is absorbed by the pigment in your hair, so it’s extremely effective for people with dark hair. Laser hair removal isn’t as effective for people with blonde, white, red, light brown, and light-colored hair because they lack pigment and don’t absorb the laser energy effectively.
Tattooed Skin: You can’t get laser hair removal if you have tattoos on the treatment area. That’s because the pigment from the tattoo will absorb the laser energy, making the skin around the treatment area burn. It can also make the tattoo fade away.
4. How should I prepare for my laser hair removal session?
No Waxing: Your hair needs to be in the anagen phase during the laser hair removal procedure. As such, you’re advised against waxing your hair before your session or between two sessions.
Preliminary Shaving: You’re asked to shave unwanted hair 24 hours before the treatment to ensure optimal results and safety. Failure to shave the treatment area may result in loss of treatment or service if time still allows for treatment.
5. How many sessions do I need for permanent hair removal?
Laser hair removal only affects the hair follicles on the anagen phase, i.e., the initial growth phase when the hair is connected to the dermis. On average, only 20% to 40% of your hair will be in the anagen phase at any given moment. As such, you need multiple sessions for complete hair removal for over 75% hair reduction . Generally speaking, patients see optimal results in just a few sessions, but everyone has a unique journey.
6. Are There Side Effects to Laser Hair Removal?
The side effects are minimal. Some people experience temporary redness, itching, and swelling of the skin right after treatment. These side effects usually go away within a few hours, and most can be soothed by applying aloe vera to the treated area.
In rare cases, some people may see scars, burns, or blisters. But these side effects usually occur only in people who do not follow the proper aftercare plan.
7. How Long Until I See Results?
Most people notice significant results following each treatment session, although your final results won’t appear until you’ve completed all of your recommended sessions. Throughout the course of treatments, you will probably notice that the necessity to shave, wax, or pluck the treated area(s) will gradually diminish, until you no longer have to rely on these traditional hair removal methods.
Note that while most men and women enjoy permanent results, you may require a light touch-up down the road. Hair regrowth, if any, will be minimal.
8. How long after laser hair removal can you start shaving?
After your laser hair removal session, you should wait around 10 days before shaving. We recommend waiting 10 days because your hairs will enter the shedding phase in the next 5 to 14 days, at which point they’ll start falling off.
Shaving after 10 days will allow the unwanted hairs to fall off naturally, thereby initiating the next hair growth cycle. If you must shave for an occasion, you should still wait at least 7 days.
9. Can Anyone Perform Laser Hair Removal?
Only those trained and certified to operate cosmetic laser treatment devices should perform laser hair removal. Even though the procedure is nonsurgical, a careful, skilled professional needs to perform this treatment to ensure your safety and best results.
Our licensed and certified providers have received the training, certification, and experience necessary to deliver high-quality results that never sacrifice your safety.