How to Get the Most Out of Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment
If you’re considering laser hair removal, it means you’re one step closer to having smooth skin all year round. The good news is for most types of skin and hair, it’s possible to achieve a noticeable reduction in hair growth. So if you have unwanted hair anywhere on your body, there’s a device that can help to remove this hair, in many cases with long-term or even permanent results.
Traditionally, the best candidates for laser hair removal have been those with the most contrast between their skin colour and hair. For example, dark hair and lighter skin tended to produce the best and quickest results. Having said that, technology has come a long way over the last couple of years. Now the nuances between hair and skin contrast are less important for treating unwanted hair thanks to advancements in laser hair innovation.
Modern devices take into account that skin and hair type is largely outside your control. That’s why these sophisticated machines have pre-programmed settings that deliver a safe and effective treatment. In this sense, all you have to do is show up and we’ll do the rest.
There are some steps, however, you can take - before and after your treatment - which are completely under your control. And if you follow the advice outlined below, your procedure will go more smoothly and you'll get the best outcome possible.
Want to know if laser hair removal is right for you? Visit our Quizz and Price Calculator.
Before Your Treatment
No Waxing or Threading
If you normally wax or thread, we recommend waiting a minimum of two weeks before scheduling your laser hair removal appointment. It’s important that the root of the hair is fully intact at the time of treatment. Laser targets and damages the pigment at the root, which is removed by waxing or threading.
Yes to Shaving
We also ask that you shave the area the night before. A good, close shave will make the treatment much more comfortable for you.The reason has to do with how laser technology works.
We already mentioned that the laser beam targets pigment at the root. But that’s not the whole story. Laser energy is actually attracted to the darkest spot in a given area. So if you have hair, even if it’s short, the laser energy may discharge into the hair instead of the root. Not only will this be painful, but it will also make the procedure less effective.
Can I shave on the morning of my appointment? You can but it’s not recommended. Shaving on the day of can make your skin more sensitive or irritated. The best time to shave is at night, before bedtime.
What if I Have a Tan?
If you show up to your appointment with a tan, chances are your technician will have to reschedule your appointment for another day. Whether it’s a natural tan, indoor tan or spray tan, all of these are contraindicated when it comes to safe and effective laser hair removal.
When your skin is tanned, it has more melanin than usual. This can significantly increase your chances of getting a burn, not to mention make the treatment less effective. It’s best to wait until your tan has completely faded before booking an appointment.
During Your Treatment
Pain Factor and What to Expect
We know what you're thinking. How much will it hurt? If someone tells you that laser hair removal is completely painless, that’s simply not true. Energy from the laser can create a heating sensation that some describe as “uncomfortable.” But at the same time, most people can easily tolerate the procedure thanks to modern devices that hurt a lot less than their predecessors.
Even still, some devices deliver a more comfortable patient experience than others, and we’ve tried them all. You can rest assured that all the laser hair removal machines offered at our various clinic locations were carefully curated for their effectiveness and comfort level.
What if I have a very low pain tolerance? There are definitely areas of the body that are more sensitive than others. These include bikini, underarms and face. Furthermore, if the hair is particularly thick, it can produce more heat and possible discomfort than finer hair.
For this reason, a topical numbing cream applied prior to treatment can really help you feel more at ease. Your technician will give you instructions on how to properly apply the numbing cream in preparation for your treatment if you decide to use one.
Pro tip: Ask for a patch test during your consultation with the exact device that will be used on your skin so you’ll get a good sense of the pain factor. You’ll be asked to wait 24-48 hours to make sure there are no adverse reactions, which is an added benefit of having the patch test.
For laser hair removal cost skip to our Quizz and Price Calculator
Post Treatment Do’s and Don’ts
No Sun Exposure
Avoid direct sun exposure for a minimum of 48 hours after your laser hair removal session. After that we recommend using full-spectrum sun protection for at least a week if you’re going to be out in the sun. Also stay away from excessive heat and sweating, such as sauna, steam room or even vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours to prevent irritation or even in some cases infection.
Do Moisturize!
Your skin may feel tight and dry after laser hair removal so using a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer can help. Choose products that don’t contain harsh chemicals or fragrance as these can be irritating. A good moisturizer can also alleviate itching as the hair starts to grow back.
Keep Shaving
We don’t recommend waxing or threading while you’re undergoing laser hair removal treatment. Shaving is OK. After one week, you can start exfoliating the area with a loofah or exfoliating cream to prevent in-grown hairs.
Keep Your Appointments
The ideal time between sessions is 4-6 weeks. Skipping appointments, or waiting too long between each treatment, can nullify your results.
Don’t miss out! Sign up to receive the latest news and promotions happening at Spotless Laser.