Permanent Hair Reduction
Making the choice to finally cut out the endless shaving, tedious plucking, painful waxing, sharp razor nicks, and messy hair removal creams can feel liberating. But the long list of laser hair removal treatments can make it difficult to know which is the best choice. Scientific jargon and confusing technical terms can make the decision all the more daunting, so we’ve cut out the excess and stuck to the facts to answer the most commonly asked questions about our hair removal treatments.
Who is the best candidate for this treatment?
The best candidate for our laser hair removal treatments is someone tired of temporary hair removal methods, who is looking for a permanent hair reduction solution for the face or body. For safety reasons, however, an individual may not be an ideal candidate if any of the following applies:
The individual has experienced previous complications with laser therapies
The individual has a history of keloid scarring
The individual has an active infection or history of herpes simplex in the treatment area
The individual has used a depilatory cream or other hair removal treatment (waxing, plucking, electrolysis) that removes hair from the root within the last six weeks
The individual is hypersensitive to hydroquinone or other bleaching agents
The individual has used oral Accutane within the last six weeks
Are the treatments fast?
Our IPL and diode laser hair removal treatments are quick, though the length of the session will vary depending on the size of the treatment area. In most cases, sessions can be booked during a lunch break, and multiple smaller areas (such as the underarms and bikini line) may be treated during the same session.
What does it feel like? Are laser hair removal treatments painful?
Once the treatment starts, expect to feel some heat in the area. For most, Venus Velocityâ„¢ laser hair removal treatments feel like a light snap of an elastic band against the skin. The device applicator has a built-in cooling feature to make the treatment as comfortable as possible, but some discomfort may be expected when treating more sensitive areas, such as the bikini line. If the treatment feels too uncomfortable, the treatment provider can adjust the settings. Post-treatment, skin may feel slightly sunburnt. A cool compress may be applied for relief and the sensation should fade in one to two days.
How many sessions are needed to see results? Is it permanent?
Usually, 4 to 6 treatments are required for favorable results. All the same, no hair removal treatment is capable of halting hair growth entirely. Results depend on how the hair grows. Some small patches of hair regrowth may occur. While any hair that does grow back in the treated area is often sparse, less coarse, and often unnoticeable, a touchup appointment may be needed to maintain results.
Is there any specific pre- or post-procedure care required?
Prior to each treatment, skin should be clean from lotions, creams, or makeup. The technician will shave and clean the area before starting the treatment. They will also ask about the individual’s medical history, so it helps to have that information ready. Refrain from any hair removal treatments, aside from shaving, at least six weeks prior to the appointment. It is also recommended to stop tanning a few weeks before each treatment.
Post-treatment, gently clean the treated area twice a day and apply sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 before going outside. Avoid excessive sun exposure whenever possible and cut out any hot baths, massages, or treatments that require direct contact with the treated skin for 48 hours post-treatment. In the days following treatment, hairs may fall out more easily—this is perfectly normal.
Some patients may also experience what appears to be a rash accompanied by some mild itching. This is just the skin’s response to the energy. The redness and itching should subside quickly, within a few days. Cool compresses or antibiotic ointment can help speed up the healing process.
Will this treatment work for those with darker skin?
Our hair removal treatments can be safely performed on darker skin tones and tanned skin. However, there is a risk of discoloration due to the higher levels of pigment in the skin. The technician will perform a test spot and wait between 15 minutes to 48 hours, depending on the skin tone, to assess the skin’s reaction to the laser. For this reason, it is best to seek out a certified treatment provider, as they will know best what treatment parameters are most appropriate to use for each skin tone.
