The Science Behind Laser Hair Removal: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Hello there! My name is Yuliya. I am an esthetician and also a certified laser hair removal specialist. Chances are, if you're thinking of giving laser hair removal a try (and why wouldn't you be—the results can last for months or years!), you've got questions.
Through this blog, we aim to explain all about laser and how it can help you get rid of the unwanted hair without putting anything at risk.
Laser Hair Removal for Beginners: How It Works
Even though laser hair removal may seem like something from a sci-fi movie, it is actually an existing and time-tested method of permanently reducing undesirable body/facial-hair in all cultures around the world. And it works pretty well because of its targeting pigment in hair follicles.
Here’s how it works:
Melanin focused: The laser irradiates all the melanins (the pigments that give your hair its color) in the follicles of our hair. This energy is then absorbed and turned into heat.
The heat created by this laser disables a follicle, postponing future growth. The laser zeros in on the pigment of dark, coarse hair — treating only targeted hair and leaving surrounding skin undamaged.
Because the laser specifically targets the pigment in the hair, it can selectively affect dark, coarse hair while leaving the surrounding skin undamaged.
Hair grows at various stages, and laser hair removal works best while it is active growing (anagen phase). All hair are not in the same phase at a time so generally multiple sittings are required to get the best results.
Now that you know how long laser hair removal takes, let's look into what actually happens during your sessions.
Learn what to expect during your laser hair removal sessions and you will become more comfortable about the whole procedure.
This is what usually happens, broken down step-by-step:
Consultation: Your journey to hair-free skin starts with a consultation, during which I will evaluate your skin type and the color of your body hair, as well as examine your health history so we can confirm if laser treatment for unwanted hair is safe for you. We will also, realistically, give you a good idea of how many sessions it may take.
Before the treatment: prior to your appointment, I will ask you to shave in the area treated. The laser then concentrates on the hair follicle instead of a strand above the skin surface. Stop waxing, plucking or using hair removal creams for several weeks before your session. This can disturb the laser from finding and targeting that follicle.
Treatment — You will be given eye shields to protect your eyes from laser flash.
Cooling and Soothing– If needed I will apply a cooling gel to soothe the skin.
Follow-up care: I will give you instructions on how to take care of your skin after the treatment, such as protecting it from sunlight and wearing sunscreen in areas treated. You need to keep your skin out of the sun since it can be extra sensitive after laser treatment
Ways to Get Ready for a Laser Hair Removal Therapy
To achieve the most effective results possible from your laser hair removal treatment, proper preparation is essential. Trying to get everything done on time, here are a few tips:
Stay-Out-of-the-Sun: As you prepare for your treatment, make sure to stay out of the sun and say no to tanning beds or self-tanners in the weeks prior. Sunburned or tanned skin: Skin that is sunburned can have a higher risk of side effects and may need the appointment rescheduled.
Pass on Other Hair Removal: Don't wax, pluck or use depilatory creams for at least four weeks before having a laser treatment. You can still shave, but other techniques will remove the hair follicle and laser treatment would not be effective.
Cleanse Your Skin: Having clean and free of lotion skin is a mandate on the day you have an appointment. This is to improve the efficacy of laser light reaching each hair follicle.
Wear Something Comfy: Try to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes. This will help to avoid irritation of the treated area after your session.
Correspond with your Specialist: Inform your skin specialist of any changes in health or taking new medications b/t consult & stent placement. Your skin sensitivity may vary, as could the outcome of treatment due to some medications or health issues.
What Results Can You Expect?
Laser hair removal: When you reduce the amount of hair that some people grow, they are less likely to get ingrown hair. Typically, people need 6 to 8 treatments that are spaced between about four and six weeks apart for the best possible results. Once you have gone through your sessions, hair may return but it will be much thinner and lighter to the point where some people even experience permanent reduction in growth of their hair.
Although it is a very effective treatment, one must keep into consideration that the results may vary from person to person as there are certain factors such as hair color, skin type and hormonal influences. Follow-up sessions are sometimes necessary in order to help ensure long lasting results.
Why Skin Story Studio for the Laser Hair Removal Service?
Skin Story Studio is one of the best medical aesthetic clinics, dedicated to providing individualized gold standard treatments that addresses your specific skin and body concerns. My team and I are New York State licensed estheticians who have been professionally trained in laser hair removal to ensure that your treatment will be safe, precise and successful.
Your safety and comfort throughout the process are maintained by using sophisticated, FDA-approved laser technology. We will be there every step — from that initial consultation, all the way to your last re•calibrate session.
From unwanted hair, to softer and more confident skin — if this sounds like something you are looking for then come get a consultation at Skin Story Studio. This way, we can decide together what the best treatment plan is for you. This is where your quest to get rid of hair from skin begins.
Ready to get started?
Schedule Your Consultation Now and see for yourself how expert, individualized care can impact.
