We answer your laser hair removal questions!

We get asked a LOT of questions about laser hair removal. Is laser hair removal safe? Does it hurt? Is it permanent? How do I prepare? These are all important, and you should know the answer to before you begin your first series of laser hair removal. So, we’ve combined as many frequently asked questions that we could think of to share with you! By the time you finished reading, you’ll be ready to get silky-smooth in no time.

How does laser hair removal  work?

We use different laser machines to treat different skin types – so how laser works will depend on which equipment is being used! With lighter skin types, a medical-grade laser transmits a concentrated beam of light directly into the pigment of your hair follicles. With darker skin types, a medical-grade laser transmits a concentrated beam of light directly to the blood supply of the hair follicle. Either way, the laser destroys and stunts the hair growth.

What do I need to do to prepare for my laser hair removal treatment? 

We cannot treat you if you have had sun exposure within two weeks of your laser hair removal treatment and you must skip the spray tan; laser will sizzle any pigment on your skin including spray tanning products. Before your treatment, shave the night before (ideally 12 hours prior), but do not use wax or depilatory creams for two weeks prior to treatment.

Your treatment will not work if you’ve had the sun-tanning Vitamin A injections within the last six months. If you have been bleaching your hair, you will need to allow the normal colour to regrow before proceeding with laser. Otherwise there is no further preparation required, other than shaving the area the night before and the avoidance of using deodorants and other skin products on the area the day of your treatment.

What can I expect on my first treatment? 

Before your first treatment you will need a short consultation with your dermatologist. This is needed to assess your skin and hair type, assess your suitability for treatment and discuss how to prep your skin for the best possible result. Do not wax or use depilatory creams beforehand, but you should shave the night before.

What information do I need to provide to my dermatologist prior to treatment?

It is extremely important to know about any contraindictions, including current and prior medications that you may be taking. It is also important to understand your ethnic heritage, as this will assist your dermatologist in assessing your skin Fitzpatrick and determining the most suitable treatment settings for you.

Have you been exposed to the sun or any type of tanning agent? The IPL Laser cannot treat you if you have sunburn or any type of tan (including natural, solarium or spray tanning beds) on the treatment area.

Have you been using Retinol on the treatment area? We advise not to use Retinol (Topical vitamin A) or hydroquinone (whitening creams) within 3-4 days of treatment.

Will laser hair removal get rid of ingrown hairs?

Laser can decrease the chance of experiencing ingrown hairs. When there is no hair in the follicle, there is less chance of an ingrown hair occurring.

 

Can laser be used for male hair issues? 

Yes, a large percentage of our customers are male and the most common areas treated are back, chest and arms.

 Is laser hair removal permanent? 

Laser hair removal has fast become one of the most effective options for permanent hair reduction. No laser hair removal can claim 100% hair removal, as some hair will always strive to grow back. Re-growth can be affected by hormones and other biological factors which can vary from person to person.

 Can all hair colours be reduced through laser hair removal?

Using our grade equipment, our laser Hair removal can target any hair colour, with the exception of grey, pale red, white and white blonde.

 How many treatments do I need?

As a rule of thumb, if you’re looking to permanently reduce hair growth, you will need a laser hair removal session every 4-6 weeks for a minimum of 6-12 treatments. IPL Laser hair removal is a fast and effective treatment, depending on your area of treatment you can be in and out in as little as 15 minutes.

 Does laser hair removal hurt? 

Laser hair removal is designed to be a relatively comfortable treatment. After each treatment the hair becomes lighter or thinner and discomfort subsides. Tip – Treatment is more comfortable if you have effectively shaved before getting laser!

 What should I expect post treatment?

During the following weeks, the treated hair will fall out gradually. The timing of your treatments dramatically influences the outcome due to hair growth patterns.

Avoid applying makeup to the area in the unlikely event of blistering and stay out of the sun, as your skin will be sensitive to the sun for 48 hours after treatment.

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 Are there any possible side effects that I need to be aware of? 

Expected skin responses post-treatment would be pinkness and mild swelling around the hair follicle. Each person’s skin will respond differently.