It’s officially my favorite time of year, laser season! As the weather starts to cool off and the days get shorter it is time to start your laser treatment journey and more specifically your laser hair removal journey. Laser hair removal is not a one and done treatment. It requires multiple sessions and consistency to see full reduction. Fall is the best time to start, so you can be smooth by summer!

How it works

Laser hair removal works by using light waves to target hair follicles to stop the growth of hair. The energy produced by the laser shrinks the hair follicle, without damaging the surrounding skin, so it can no longer produce thick or dark hair. The treatment is most effective when the hair is actively growing which is why it takes multiple sessions to see full reduction. Different follicles grow on different cycles, so the timing is key. We offer packages of 6 treatments with each session typically being completed 8-12 weeks apart depending on the desired treatment area and how quickly you see regrowth after treatment.

Who’s a good candidate

Anyone with unwanted brown or black hair and light skin, especially if the hair is causing irritation, is a good candidate for laser hair reduction. The treatment is customized to your needs and adjusted throughout your treatment series making laser hair removal accessible for almost everyone. It also doubles as an amazing treatment for ingrown hair and a way to minimize irritation from shaving or waxing! However, the treatment cannot be performed if you have recently tanned or will be tanned shortly after treatment, if you are pregnant, or if you are using any topical or oral products/medications that cause photosensitivity (ex. Retinol, AHA’s, and Accutane). If you have any questions regarding your eligibility speak with your provider

Compared to other hair removal methods

Laser hair removal is the superior hair removal method for most. It is less frequent, less irritating, and quicker than other methods. It stands as the better option for most of my clients compared to shaving and waxing.

Compared to shaving: shaving can be a daily task for some and eats up time that could be better spent. Rather than continue to shave for the rest of your life, book that laser hair removal package and save time and money when you don’t have to purchase razors and shave creams anymore. Switching to laser also helps eliminate razor burn, ingrown hairs, and cuts from shaving.

Compared to waxing: while waxing offers a longer solution than shaving it still requires more frequent treatments than laser. Most clients need to be consistently waxed every 4 weeks to stay on top of their treatment, with no promise of long-term results. However, with laser treatments after a few sessions most can book appointments 12-16+ weeks out and eventually come in only 1-2 times a year for touch ups. Making it worth the discomfort, which is going to be there whether you wax or use laser.

How to prepare for your first treatment

Getting started can be the most nerve-wracking part. Preparation makes it easier. So, here’s some tips for a successful first treatment.

Wear comfortable lose fitting clothes that can be easily removed and put back over your desired treatment area to avoid discomfort.

• Wear comfortable lose fitting clothes that can be easily removed and put back over your desired treatment area to avoid discomfort.
• Come with clean skin. no lotions, fake tan, or perfumes.
• Keep the desired treatment area out of the sun for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment.
• Eat something before your appointment and arrive hydrated. The treatment can be uncomfortable so it’s best practice to make sure you are ready to handle that sensation.
• Shave a few days before your appointment and arrive with minimal hair growth over the treatment zone. Hair should be no longer than a grain of rice.
• No tweezing, plucking, or waxing for 4 weeks prior to treatment. You need active hair growth for a successful laser treatment.

Treatment experience

We will start with a consultation. This can be done the day of your first appointment or can be completed prior to the start of your treatment. During the consultation I will ask about what kind of treatment you’re looking to receive and if you are a good candidate for that treatment. This is the time for you to ask any questions you may have. Once I have evaluated your treatment goals and set proper treatment expectations, we will be ready to start your first session of laser hair removal!

After the consultation is completed, I will give you a moment to prepare for your treatment. During this time, you will remove any clothing that would cover the area being treated and exchange it for an appropriate drape that we will provide. Then you will have a seat on the treatment bed. When you are all set, I will return to the treatment room and begin cleansing the treatment area to make sure there is no debris or oil blocking the laser from penetrating the skin. After the skin is cleansed, it is time to begin with the laser. I always start with 2-3 pulses then pause and check in with how you are feeling. When you feel confident in continuing treatment, I will resume. I continue with the treatment, taking quick breaks as you need them. You can expect the treatment to feel like a rubber band snapping against the skin upon each pulse. After the treatment a cooling gel may be applied to the skin to begin calming it down. The sensation after the treatment is very mild and is no worse than a light sunburn.

And just like that you will have completed your first laser hair removal treatment!

Proper post care

Following your appointment there are a few guidelines you will want to follow.

• Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for at least 2 weeks.
• Avoid sweating and working out for the rest of the day.
• Don’t scrub the treatment area or apply chemical exfoliators for 1 week.
• Keep the treated area clean, cool, and hydrated and you should have no issues.

Final thoughts

Laser can sound intimidating, but I hope this information helps calm any nerves about starting your treatment journey. At Lake Country Plastic and Hand Surgery we take our time to make sure you feel comfortable and heard before starting any treatment. So, if you are ready to ditch the razor, call our office at (262) 523-1200 today!