Laser Hair Removal

About Laser Hair Removal

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that utilises concentrated beams of light, known as lasers,

to selectively target and damage hair follicles on the skin's surface. The purpose of this treatment is to reduce or permanently remove unwanted body hair. The laser is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair follicles, which generates heat. This heat damages the hair follicles, inhibiting their ability to produce new hair growth.

One of the most significant advantages of laser hair removal is its long-lasting effects. As the hair follicles are damaged, regrowth is significantly reduced, and the hair that does grow back is often finer and lighter in color. Over time and with regular treatments, many patients experience a significant reduction in hair growth, making shaving, waxing, or other temporary hair removal methods a thing of the past.

What will happen at the appointment?

Before your appointment, you will be invited to fill out a consultation form and come to meet your therapist for a short appointment so a patch test can be done a few days prior to your laser hair removal appointment. This allows the therapist to go through any medical history you may have and also to establish your skin and hair type to determine the most suitable laser technology for their unique needs. A patch test will also be performed at this appointment to see how your skin reacts to the laser. It is important to note that laser hair removal is most effective on individuals with lighter skin and darker hair due to the contrast between the melanin in the hair and the surrounding skin.

During the actual treatment, you will be positioned comfortably, and protective glasses will be provided to shield the eyes from the laser's intense light. The handheld laser device is then passed over the targeted area, emitting pulses of light that are absorbed by the melanin in the hair follicles. This process heats and damages the follicles, ultimately preventing further hair growth.

The duration of each session depends on the size of the treatment area, with smaller areas like the upper lip or underarms taking only a few minutes, while larger areas like the legs or back may require longer. To achieve optimal results, multiple sessions are usually recommended, spaced 4-6 weeks apart depending on the area being treated. This approach allows the laser to target hair follicles in various growth stages effectively.

What will it feel like?

While the procedure is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience mild prickling discomfort or a slight warming sensation during treatment. However, the laser device includes cooling mechanisms to alleviate any discomfort and enhance the overall experience.

What should I expect after the treatment?

After each session, patients may experience some mild redness or sensitivity in the treated area, but these effects typically subside within a few hours. It is essential to follow post-treatment care instructions provided by the therapist to ensure optimal healing and to protect the skin from sun exposure.

Will I see reduction in hair growth straight away?

The timing of results from laser hair removal can vary depending on several factors, including your individual hair growth cycle, the area being treated and your skin and hair color. In general, it's essential to understand that laser hair removal is a gradual process, and significant results will not be immediate after just one session. Patience and adherence to the recommended treatment plan are key to achieving the best outcome.

After your first session you may notice your hair regrowth is patchy or thinner and growing slower than before, during this time it is still possible to shave or trim the hair. Most clients notice an improvement after 2-3 treatments, although others can take longer. The amount of sessions needed will depend on how your body reacts to the treatment.