Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair.

The options for hair removal are endless. From waxing to threading and shaving to tweezing, but laser hair removal is one of the few options that offer a more permanent approach to getting rid of body hair (if you wish to).

However, just like with any procedure you’re doing to your body, it is a good idea to thoroughly research the pros and cons of the process.

In this article, I’m going to share a few things to bear in mind before a laser hair removal procedure.

What Is Laser Hair  Removal  Like?

During a laser hair removal procedure, a beam of light is directed at several hair follicles in the treatment area. 

The pigment in each hair absorbs the light, and with it, enough heat energy to destroy the hair growth center within the follicle.

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 vital for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments afterward.

If you’re considering laser hair removal, it pays to study up.  Below you’ll find out straight facts and have all your laser myths busted.

Is Laser Hair Removal Bad For You? Not At All?

Laser and light-based treatments have been safely used for years to conduct medical and cosmetic procedures. The laser light in this treatment targets only the hair pigment, leaving the surrounding skin undamaged.

At Lipstick Empire LaserSpa in Edmonton, we have certified laser technicians with over 7 years of experience. Moreover, our lasers have been both FDA and Health Canada approved. What more are you waiting for, book an appointment with us today to have an amazing experience

Getting Laser Hair Removal Near The Eyes Is A Big No.

Cosmetic lasers may look all pretty and innocent with their coloured beams of light, but they can be seriously dangerous around the eyes. 

No matter where you’re receiving treatment, you should always wear eye protection, which your technician will provide.

You Can’t Get It Over Tattoos.

Laser hair removal cannot be done over tattoos, therefore it must be covered and only the surrounding areas around the tattoo itself can be treated.

Avoid Excercise and Hot Shower

Exercising and hot showers both increase your body temperature, causing your body to sweat and creating a potential breeding ground for bacteria. 

This could lead to infection or ingrown hairs, so we recommend waiting at least 24 hours after a laser hair removal treatment before attempting any activity that may increase your body temperature and upset the hair follicles.

Saunas and spas are also off the cards as they will make you hot and sweaty.

Keep the area cool and hydrated by applying the recommended post-laser cream or taking a nice cool shower to soothe the area.

Do Not Wax Or Pluck After Your Treatment

Shaving is totally fine, but put down the tweezers. Pulling out hair follicles after your laser hair removal treatment hinders the process. Your unwanted hair needs to fall out on its own to see the best results.

Tell Your Technician  About Any Medication You Are Taking.

You need to be honest with your technician as far as medication is concerned. For instance, if you are taking antibiotics, you could end up with burns which can be difficult to get rid of because they are light sensitive.

Things like a recent facial or Roaccutane will have an impact on the suitability of laser hair removal for you.

 It’s A Quick Process

Depending on what area you have lasered, the process doesn’t take too long.

For your legs, it may take less than an hour, while the upper lip will only take a few minutes.

The Results Can Take A Few Weeks

Laser hair removal doesn’t automatically make you silky smooth after your first treatment.

While you might see hair growth slow down considerably after one appointment, after 6-8 sessions at  Lipstick Empire LaserSpa in Edmonton you can achieve up to 90% reduction.

It usually takes two or three weeks after your first treatment to see a difference, as the dead hair will fall out. 

However, it is important to keep your appointments as regular as possible because your hair follicles are all at different stages of their growth.

Results Will Vary

One needs to understand that laser hair removal is a process that ideally should be customized to the body area and type of hair.

For instance, coarse hairs in the armpits or bikini may completely resolve over four to five visits. Fine thin hairs on the upper lips or arms may take multiple treatments.

You Might Need To Switch Up Your Beauty Regime And Products

Scrubs, glycolic acid, and retinol creams should be avoided 2 days before and after treatment.

We recommend that for 2 weeks before and after laser, you avoid chemical peels, and similarly, you should wait 1-2 weeks before using fake tan.  

Shave, don’t wax!

The root of the hair must be present in the follicle for the laser to identify it, so avoid waxing, epilating, use of depilatory creams, or anything that might disturb the hair follicle.

Instead, shave the treatment area 12-14 hours before your appointment. A clean shave with a sharp razor is a must, we don’t want the laser targeting longer hairs that sit above the skin, as this runs the risk of causing burns.

For best results, make sure you attend your appointments religiously at the intervals advised by your technician. The timing of your treatments dramatically influences the outcome due to hair growth patterns.

Now that you have a basic understanding of how laser hair removal works, and what to do before and after treatment, you are ready to go forth and book an appointment at Lipstick Empire LaserSpa.