Due to the safe, effective, and efficient way of removing wanted body hair, treatment has become quite popular and is used by millions of people worldwide. However, if you are also planning to get this innovative and convenient option to remove your unwanted body hair, it is essential to prepare yourself for it.
We have pulled together a list of four essential tips on how to prepare and what to expect from permanent laser hair removal. But before we start with that, let us take a look at how the procedure works.
Lasers release wavelengths that target the pigment located in the root of each hair follicle. By absorbing the light, lasers damage the hair follicles without causing any damage to the skin surface. However, because each hair follicle has its own growth cycle, multiple laser treatments are required for permanent removal.
Here are some other ways to ensure the best and permanent results. All you have to do is make sure to do these things before your treatment begins.
Stop waxing and plucking your hair
Laser hair removal treatment is performed by targeting the hair roots; for that reason, it is best that you avoid waxing or plucking the area four to six weeks before your first session. If you still want to get rid of the hair, you can consider shaving the area. In fact, it is encouraged to shave the target area before your first scheduled session as shaving leaves the root in the place.
Your laser treatments will be scheduled eight to ten weeks apart, so if you really want, you can pluck or wax during that time. However, it is not recommended, and you will have to stop at least six weeks prior to your next laser hair removal session.
Shave the area
Although it is recommended to stop waxing and plucking your hair, shaving it 24 to 48 hours before the appointment is crucial. Your hair is invisible to the naked eye, but the laser is still able to target the pigment located at the root of your hair. Shaving the area is essential as it reduces the chances of burns with the hair being below the skin surface.
Avoid sun exposure
The skin for treatment must be kept out of the sun for at least two weeks before your laser hair removal treatment. Sun exposure can cause skin discoloration after the treatment, and sunburn can cause excruciating pain and blisters. Many laser treatment professionals don’t treat a patient with sunburn and consider rescheduling their appointment. For that reason, make sure to apply sunscreen every day if you cannot cover the treated area. Applying sunscreen is mandatory, especially if you are considering facial hair removal.
Check medications
It is important to inform your permanent laser hair removal professional about all the medications you are taking, including oral and topical. Some medicines can interrupt your laser hair removal treatment and make it ineffective. Some other medicines can make your skin sensitive, which is more likely to burn or blister. That said, you won’t have to stop with your medication; your laser treatment professional will adjust your treatment schedule and proceed with caution. If you are on birth control, antibiotics, or acne medications, make sure to inform the professional.
What to expect during your first laser hair removal appointment?
After the consultation, if the laser treatment professional determines you to be a good candidate, they will proceed with the treatment. They will start by asking a few relevant questions about your recent health history to ensure zero contraindications for treatment. They will also discuss your treatment desires, where you can specifically tell them whether you want just face laser treatment, full-body laser treatment, or any other specific areas of the body.
Next, the area for treatment will be cleaned and prepared for treatment. Finally, the laser treatment professional will talk you through the treatment to avoid any surprises at the last minute.
While receiving the laser treatment, you will be asked to wear protective eyewear. While you may still be able to see a flash of light, your eyes will be covered entirely. Your laser treatment professional will wear protective eyewear as well.
The body areas that aren’t to be lasered will be covered with clothing, and the other regions will be exposed.
What to expect after laser hair removal treatment?
You may experience redness and swelling for several days in the treatment area after the procedure. In addition, the treatment area may feel like a razor burn for the next few hours followed by the treatment.
Hair in the treated area will gradually shed over the course of two weeks. You may also experience patchiness of hair growth which is quite normal and dissipates after the completion of the permanent laser hair removal series.
The bottom line
Permanent laser hair removal cost is also affordable, so you won’t have to pay hefty amounts. Laser hair removal treatment is a safe procedure, provided a professional and experienced technician performs it in a laser hair removal clinic.
