7 things to consider before getting laser hair removal

If you are considering a laser hair removal treatment, it pays to do your homework. It’s easy to be lured in by the thought of no more waxing, but it’s not always that simple.

In this blog today, we will break down 7 things you need to know before getting laser hair removal, and why you should be mindful of who you trust with your treatment if you choose to go ahead.

It’s not a quick fix

In recent years, laser hair removal has been thought of as a ‘quick fix’ for getting rid of unwanted hair permanently. Whilst the treatment sessions may only take around 30 minutes in some cases, patients usually will need between 8 – 12 treatments to see a true result; and need to be regular and consistent in your appointments.

Laser hair removal treatment aims to destroy the hair follicle during its growing phase, therefore any follicles not in the growing phase may not be permanently removed. Therefore, you should be prepared for regular sessions as each individual follicle will be a different stage in its growth.

You should do some prep beforehand

Before you undergo treatment, it is very important that your chosen practitioner carries out a patch test. This will help to determine the precise grade of laser energy required for your skin and hair type, to ensure you achieve optimum results.

For optimum results, you should try to ensure that each area is thoroughly prepared for treatment. First and foremost, shave the area 24 hours prior to treatment. Waxing, plucking, epilating, or tweezing will not do; using a razor will ensure the hair is still inside the follicle for treatment.

It’s advised to limit sun exposure for at least four weeks prior to treatment, and you should avoid tanning lotions. It’s recommended a thorough exfoliation is undertaken beforehand to make sure any tan residue is removed.

On the day of your treatment, ensure you are not wearing any moisturisers, lotions, perfumes, deodorants, or make-up products on the treatment area. If you are, inform your practitioner so they can clean the area as required.

Your skin/hair colour and age matters

During your first consultation, your practitioner should talk to you about your ethnicity, skin type and hair type, because the darker/ thicker the hair is, the longer it can take to remove. Those with darker skin tones may require more treatments or top ups.

Your age may also impact the rate in which your hair grows, and therefore the number of sessions and top-up treatments you may need. The younger you are, the more likely your hair is to grow a little faster than somebody older.

In some cases, laser hair removal may even stimulate further growth, but your practitioner should ensure you understand, and let you know if your hair type is not suitable.

Pigmentation

After treatment, you may develop some minor irritation, such as redness and swelling. This should go down within a few days. One of the other complications of laser hair removal is pigmentation. This is a fairly rare complication, but one that you should be mindful of nonetheless.

If a laser is not used correctly, they can cause lighter skin tones to develop dark patches, and vice versa. This is why it is so important to see trained professionals for treatment who can explain the risks to you properly, and know what to do in the event of any rare or unexpected complications arising.

You cannot go to the gym afterwards

The heat from the laser will remain in your skin for around 24 hours following treatment. This means no gym, hot showers, saunas, or swimming because this will ultimately create a warm environment for bacteria to thrive, multiply and can result in spots.

Be sun savvy

Be mindful of any upcoming holidays you may have. Treatment usually cannot be carried out on a new/active tan, and you may need to avoid sun exposure as much as you can, both before and after treatment as your skin will be more sensitive.

Your laser hair removal specialist at Cosmex Clinic should talk to you about this before the procedure. Don’t be afraid to ask for their advice – that’s what they’re here for.

Discomfort

It can be a little uncomfortable in some cases. Laser hair removal works by sending the light of a laser through the pigment in the hair. This light converts to heat, which damages the hair follicle. With the right cooling in place, treatment shouldn’t be painful, but it may feel uncomfortable – particularly on areas with thinner skin.

Laser hair removal machines like the Stratum Quantum 2 system are fully equipped with a high power laser, suitable for any skin tone and a unique cooling tip to reduce discomfort.

Contact us

If you are considering laser hair removal, contact us today for a consultation where our trained experts will advise and help you decide if it is right for you. Remember: only undergo laser hair removal treatments with experts you can trust, using devices that have been rigorously tested for safety and efficacy.

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