04月15 Everything you need to know before booking your first laser treatment
The benefits and risks Lasers can accurately target multiple hairs at once without damaging the surrounding skin, and the procedure is very fast, with the laser pulses lasting less than a second each. But what we’re really dying to know is this: Is laser hair removal permanent? Believe it or not, one session does, in fact, remove all the hair, and completing six sessions (spaced 6-8 weeks apart) offers long-lasting, permanent hair reduction.
While the laser works best on underarms, legs, and bikini areas—since these are non hormonal areas where the skin is thinner and hair is thicker—it can be safely used on any body part, including places with finer hair like the face, fingers, and nipples. The ideal candidate for laser hair removal is someone with dark pigment in their body and facial hair—however, thanks to new lasers and updated technology, clients with fair skin and light hair can also expect successful results.
As for the risks, there is potential for superficial scabbing that usually resolves within two weeks. So it’s very important to do your research ahead of time and seek out a trained professional to minimize the risk of any adverse effects. Make sure the clinic you choose offers a complimentary consultation, so you can get all the information on the procedure upfront and discuss the expected results.
How to prepare for laser hair removal
Shave the area you’re having treated 1-2 days prior to laser hair removal, which will help the laser permeate the root of the hair without targeting hairs on the surface, says Karavolas. Do not wax or pluck hairs at least two weeks prior to laser hair removal, since the root needs to stay in tact in order for the laser to fully destroy the hair. And if you happen to be on your period but don’t want to miss an appointment, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear a tampon during treatment—just keep in mind that you may be more sensitive towards pain, so Karavolas does suggest waiting a few days.
What to expect during the treatment
The three most popular lasers used are Alexandrite (for light skin), NDYAG (for dark skin), and Splendor X by Lumenis—a combination laser that incorporates wavelengths from both types and is perfect for treating tanned skin—explains Karavolas. You’ll wear eye protection during the procedure, and the specialist might apply a lotion or gel to the area prior to starting to lessen the discomfort.
The specialist will press a hand-held laser device to your skin, and each zap will last less than a second. Most agree that laser hair removal isn’t excruciatingly painful, although it can be slightly uncomfortable. Many people relate the feeling of the laser to being snapped with a rubber band (fun, right?) or a light pinch, but cold air or a cool mist of spray is applied to soothe the area throughout the process. Fortunately, the treatment is done very quickly, and many consider the pain to be much more tolerable than waxing.
The Pain
Laser sounds scary but with the newer technology, it can be pain free to some skin types. However it depends on the laser equipment from your service provider.
Laser hair removal cost
The cost varies at different clinics, but Karavolas quotes pricing per session for the most popular areas as follows: $75 for upper lip, $75 for chin, $200 for basic bikini, $500 for full back, and $700 for full legs. You can expect the treatment of underarms to take five minutes, facial hair to take 10 minutes, a full bikini or full back to take up to 15 minutes, and full legs to take up to 20 minutes.
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