We’ve come a long way to accept our body hair as something totally normal. After all, it’s an integral part of human anatomy. The transition from a “must” to a “preference” is definitely a big step forward for all of us.
But still, if you’re one of those people who prefer their bodies or particular parts totally hair-free, you’ve probably considered having laser hair removal before. And if you haven’t done it yet, there’s perhaps something stopping you. Might it be the lack of information? Then you’ve come to the right place! This blog post will guide you through the process of laser hair removal while providing you with helpful information.
How does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Let’s start with the basics.
Laser hair removal works by seeking out pigment in your skin, locating the hair follicle root, and converting light energy to heat. The hair root dies, and the hair falls out.
You’ve probably heard about the tanned skin issue, even if you’ve never had your hair removed with a laser. The thing is the laser works by seeking out pigment. Logically, if you’ve got “additional” pigment on your skin, sun exposure, for example, energy from the laser targets not only the hair follicles but your nicely tanned skin as well. As a result, you may end up with burns or blisters. To avoid this, Ecou’s Laser asks you to have no sun exposure, tanning beds, or creams for at least 1-2 weeks before treatment.
Another essential part is your skin tone. We use the Fitzpatrick scale to determine your skin type and use the specific technique accordingly. Skin types I-III are treated with Alexandrite (755nm) wavelength. For skin types IV-VI, we use Nd: Yag (1064 nm).
How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal?
If you want to have laser to do its job perfectly, leave your body hair alone prior to the procedure. Don’t wax, shave, use threads or tweeze, basically - don’t remove your hair. Once again, avoid sun exposure two weeks before the procedure, especially if you're getting laser hair removal on the neck, chest, back, arms, and legs.
Try not to use bleaching creams or perfume products for 24 to 48 hours. If you’re going to have laser hair removal on your upper lip, avoid exfoliating or peeling your face for one week.
What’s the Aftercare Like?
Here are the essential aftercare tips for safety and, of course, long-lasting results:
Do not rub or scratch the treated area;
Avoid sweating, excessive exercise, swimming, hot water/showers, soaking, hot tubs, sauna for 24-48 hours;
If you are prone to breakouts or have oily skin, wait 24 hours before applying any topical products;
Don’t expose the treated area to the sun for one week after the treatment;
Apply a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunblock of SPF 30 or higher whenever exposed to the sun;
Remember, the hair will grow back and start to shed in about ten days to 3 weeks.
And Finally, How Painful is It?
Not really. Lasers have evolved over these past years, adding innovative features and improving overall. As a result, specific pain-reducing methods, like suction and contact cooling, are often built into them, making the process more comfortable and painless, especially on sensitive areas like bikini.
Before the procedure, we will schedule the consultation to assess your skin type, hair color, background, and medical history and discuss your expectations to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the treatment.
About Ecou’s Laser
Here at Ecou’s laser hair removal studio, we pride ourselves on the quality of our services. Our top priority is your safety, comfort and satisfaction. For those reasons, we’re always out for innovations in the broad field of esthetics, integrating brand-new practices and building an environment tailored to your unique needs!