Thinking about Laser Hair Removal?
As tempting it is to live a stubble-free life, the importance of doing your own research into this treatment cannot be underrated.
Lucky for you, we’ve put together everything you need to know about getting rid of unwanted hair… for good!
#1 Laser hair removal isn’t complicated
While the word laser conjures images of light sabres ala Star Wars, this treatment is nothing as exciting or scary as that. Laser hair removal simply uses energy from the laser to destroy the roots of hair follicles. Once these are destroyed, hair can’t grow again.
#2 There are 3 main types of lasers
Popular lasers used in the treatment of hair removal include:
Diode: Diode laser is highly effective for both light and dark skin.
Alexandrite: This laser is the fastest of all laser types and is ideal for treating larger body area, for those with light to olive skin tones.
Nd:YAG: This long pulse laser is safe for all skin types, including tanned skin. Unlike the other types of lasers, it is less effective for light or fine hair
Read more: The top beauty trends for 2020 that you can’t ignore
#3 Laser hair removal works best on four areas.
While laser hair removal effectively works on any body part you wish to remove hair from, it has been found to be especially effective in removing hair from the bikini, lip, chin, and underarm areas.
#4 Laser hair removal love thick, coarse, and dark hair
The great thing about using laser for hair removal is that it is attracted to pigment or colour in the hair follicle. This certainly bodes well for those with long, thick and dark hair!
#5 You need to stop using specific medications
Laser hair removal is incompatible with any medications that are photo-sensitive and these meds need to be stopped at least one week prior to treatment. Most antibiotics can be photo-sensitive too, so if you are on antibiotics, it might be a good idea to push off your treatment by a few weeks.
Always feel free to consult with your doctor beforehand if you’re not sure whether your medication could negatively affect your laser hair removal treatment.
Read more: 5 cosmetic #tweakments that are going to take the world by storm in 2020
#6 Results take time
While everybody is different and reacts differently to the treatments, majority of patients who have undergone laser hair removal typically require 6 to 8 treatments to achieve full hair removal.
#7 Be sure to attend every session
Throughout the process, you will notice hair regrowth slowing down but this doesn’t mean you can start to ease off on the treatments. Be sure to follow through with every session to reap the full benefits of total hair removal.
#8 It’s not as painful as it sounds
If you’re a self-confessed pain-phobe, there’s always the option of using numbing cream to help you feel more comfortable. Overall it shouldn’t feel more than a light, warm pinch during treatment.
#9 Don’t worry if you’re on your period
It’s important to stay consistent with your treatments, so even if you’re menstruating and you are getting your bikini area treated, it’s no advisable to cancel your session. There’s always the option of using a tampon on the day of your treatment.
#10 Shave before your appointment
Do shave the treated area before the treatment so that the laser can penetrate into the root of the hair. But do not wax, tweeze or bleach the hair one month before your session, to ensure that your hair roots stay intact for the laser to work effectively in destroying it.
#11 You need to apply SPF to the affected area after your treatment.
After your session do avoid sun exposure to the treated area. Diligent use of sunscreen is very important. Also, any hair growth between sessions should be shaved off and not waxed or threaded.