Laser Hair Removal

Laser Hair Removal: What you really need to know!

We all hate waxing, tweezing or shaving and laser hair removal has become the most popular choice of hair removal in Australia. So, if you’ve been considering a more permanent solution to get rid of unwanted hair then you may want to consider it. There are many benefits and time saving reasons to try it.

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic treatment that uses concentrated pulses of light to remove hair, essentially destroying the hair follicle and minimising hair regrowth. However it should be noted that it is not always permanent. According to Medical News today laser hair removal uses light to target the pigment in individual hairs where the light travels down the shaft of the hair and into the hair follicle. The heat from the laser light destroys the hair follicle, resulting in the hair not likely to be able to grow back.

Does laser treatment remove hair permanently?

As hair grows in different phases the laser can only detect and destroy any active current growing hair follicles. Thus several sessions will need to be completed in order to cover all phases of hair growth. It is possible over time to eliminate hair regrowth as much as possible with multiple treatment sessions.

Can I have fake tan when having laser hair removal?

It is not advisable to have fake tan on for at least 10-14 days prior to your laser treatment and some clinics may delay your treatment if you have tanned skin.The laser can burn the skin instead of the hair follicle depending on which laser treatment is used by your clinic. It is recommended that you stay out of the sun as well in the lead up to your laser hair removal appointment. It is also recommended that you do not apply body foundations or bronzers prior to your appointment.

What are the benefits of this treatment?

You might be asking – Is it really worth it? There are many benefits to having laser hair removal and as one of the most popular and fastest growing cosmetic treatments, many people have concluded, yes it is very much worth it. Other benefits of laser hair removal worth reading include:

Long lasting results – the removal of hair permanently outweighs waxing and shaving where the hairs regrow within days or weeks.
Precision – the laser can target specific areas of the body whilst leaving the surrounding skin unharmed.
Less painful – generally when compared to waxing or epilating, laser treatment is a lot less painful.
Reduced ingrown hairs – due to the follicle being destroyed, hairs do not grow back thus reducing ingrown hair problems.
Faster – due to the ability to treat large areas, such as the back or legs, laser treatment is relatively fast.
Convenience – due to the permanence of laser hair removal treatment people find that they do not have to shave thus saving them time and money. Thus reducing regular maintenance.

How can I prepare for my laser hair removal appointment?

Avoid the sun in the two weeks lead up to your appointment. Laser treatment can result in skin burn so it is important to avoid the sun before and for two weeks after your appointment. If you spend a lot of time out in the sun, you may wish to consider laser treatment in the cooler months of the year.
On the day of your appointment do not use any creams, lotions, make up or perfume as they can interfere or limit the effectiveness of the laser treatment.
You will need to shave the area(s) 24 hours before your appointment. Hair does not need to be present for the laser treatment to work. The laser will be more effective when it can focus on the hair follicle rather than the hairs themselves.
Drink plenty of water so your skin is well hydrated at the appointment.
Choose a reputable clinic or doctor to perform the laser and ask them lots of questions prior to your treatment. They may perform a test patch, especially if your skin is dark.

What can I expect during my appointment?

Upon arriving at your appointment you will be assessed by the clinician and asked many questions about the location for hair removal and so forth. They should do a proper evaluation and consultation of your skin type prior to the laser treatment.

Many people feel a tingling or snapping of a rubber band sensation on the skin as the clinician moves the laser around the specific area of the body being treated. Some lasers are painless but it depends on the type of laser and your skin. It is essential that you

The length of the appointment will depend on the area of the body being treated. For example treatment of a back area will take longer than a small facial area.

What care is required after treatment?

Laser treatment can cause sensitivity of the skin post hair removal so it is recommended the post care instructions are followed:

Avoid hot showers and baths for 24 hours post treatment. Hot water can irritate your skin.
Avoid sun exposure – for 2 weeks post treatment it is best to avoid sun exposure and if you are in the sun, cover up or wear a high spf sunscreen.
Do not apply any products to the area – creams, lotions, perfumes or make-up products are best to be avoided on the treated area for at least 24 hours.
Avoid strenuous exercise – it is best to avoid strenuous exercise or excessive sweating for 24 hours after treatment.
Avoid picking or scratching any irritated skin in the area of treatment. This could lead to infection.
A cool compress can be applied to the area to help combat any discomfort.
Attend follow up appointments with your clinic to ensure healing and optimal results.

Are there any side effects with laser hair removal?

Some common side effects after treatment are redness of the skin, itching, swelling around the treatment area or swelling of the follicles that typically last 2-3 days. Your clinic will offer post treatment gels or creams that will help in reducing these symptoms.

Does laser hair removal work?

Hair removal from a destroyed hair follicle is permanent but you can expect that during the period in between treatments some hairs in the targeted areas will grow back. This is because of the hair growth phases. For the hairs that were not present during the treatment but grow afterwards will then be treated at your next laser treatment. It is expected that you will require several appointments depending on the type of hair you have. For some people the hair can never be fully removed but the majority of it can be.

How many treatments will I need?

It is expected around 5-10 treatments will need to take place, every 5 weeks. This allows the full hair growth cycle to take place. Even after successfully completing a full round of treatments you may find an annual treatment will be required for touch ups. Certain areas may require more treatments for the desired results.

Can I have laser hair removal over tattoos?

It is not advisable to have hair removal over tattoos as it will potentially result in burns to the skin. The pigment in the ink will be targeted by the laser instead of the hair follicle. A tattoo will be covered by the technician during treatment.

The key differences & benefits: Laser Hair Removal vs Waxing

Waxing...

Hair is removed from the root with wax strips applied to the skin
The effects typically last 3-6 weeks as the hair grows back
Requires ongoing appointments/treatments
Works for most hair & skin types
Some pain & irritation involved
Lower cost per treatment compared to laser hair removal
Can be done at home or in a salon or clinic
If done at home, burning can occur and wax can be messy