Your Guide To Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal has become a popular choice for those seeking a long-term solution to unwanted hair. This advanced technology offers numerous benefits that make it a preferred method over traditional hair removal techniques like shaving, waxing, or plucking. Let’s explore the key advantages of laser hair removal:
1. Long-Lasting Results
One of the most significant benefits of laser hair removal is its long-lasting results. Unlike shaving or waxing, which require frequent maintenance, laser hair removal targets hair follicles to reduce hair growth permanently. Most individuals experience a significant reduction in hair growth after a series of treatments, with some achieving permanent hair loss
2. Precision
Laser hair removal is highly precise, making it ideal for targeting specific areas. The laser can selectively target dark, coarse hairs while leaving the surrounding skin undamaged. This precision is particularly beneficial for treating small areas like the upper lip, chin, or bikini line.
3. Speed
Each pulse of the laser takes only a fraction of a second and can treat multiple hairs simultaneously. Small areas, such as the upper lip, can be treated in less than a minute, while larger areas, like the back or legs, may take up to an hour. This efficiency makes laser hair removal a convenient option for those with busy schedules.
4. Minimal Discomfort
While laser hair removal may cause some discomfort, it is generally less painful than other hair removal methods like waxing. Many modern laser devices come with cooling mechanisms to minimize discomfort and protect the skin during treatment.
5. Reduction of Ingrown Hairs
Laser hair removal helps reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs, which are common with shaving and waxing. By targeting the hair follicles, the laser prevents new hair growth, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs and associated irritation.
6. Cost-Effective in the Long Run
Although the initial cost of laser hair removal may be higher than other methods, it can be more cost-effective in the long run. With permanent hair reduction, you save on the ongoing expenses of razors, waxing sessions, and other hair removal products.
7. Improved Skin Texture
Laser hair removal can also improve the texture of your skin. By reducing hair growth, the skin becomes smoother and less prone to irritation and bumps caused by other hair removal methods.
What are the most common areas for laser hair removal?
Facial hair, such mustache or lip hair, chin hair, neck hair. Legs and arms are very commonly treated for hair removal. Bikini and intimate areas are increasingly popular for that always clean look. The armpits, chest, back, and abdominal areas are commonly treated for hair removal.
How many sessions of laser hair removal will i need and how often is hair removal done?
There are a few factors involved. There is no such thing as single treatment laser hair removal, and that is purely because of biology. Hair removal is only effective when the follicle is in it’s growth stage. It does not work when it is in rest phase. For this reason, multiple sessions will always be required no matter which device is used.
In someone with lighter skin color, it may require 6-8 sessions typically and someone with darker skin may require 8-10. Legs and arms are done every 8 weeks. Chest and back about every 6 weeks. Face, armpits, bikini are more typically done around 4-5 weeks apart.
How do you choose which machine & who to go with?
This is probably the biggest reason you’re here reading this! There are a lot of machines out there. Some are more effective. Some are less effective. Some have more risk. So how do you choose where to sign up and get your treatment? There are a lot of great brands out there and they include the likes of GentleMax (Candela), Motus (Cartessa), Soprano ICE (Alma), Vectus (Cynosure), DioLaze XL (In-Mode), Lightsheer (Lumenis), and Dynamis (Fotona). At Refresh Med Spa L.A. after doing all the research for you, we have decided to procure the Clarity II by Lutronic, as it is truly the most advanced laser system on the market.
Laser hair removal should indeed be by laser. Gone are the days when anyone should be using a flash-lamp (or IPL) based system. As good as they were for hair reduction, they are not true lasers and tended to have a propensity for causing complications such as burns and hyperpigmentation. We then come to Diode lasers. Diode based lasers are safer in terms of complications and are typically less expensive to purchase. In fact many “home-based” lasers (which don’t work well anyway) are made with Diode lasers and this is because it is a weaker laser. They can reduce hair, but they are not as efficient which means longer treatment times and more difficulty with getting rid of stubborn hair (such as the mustache).
The best types of lasers for hair removal will be Alexendrite and Nd:YAG, which are true lasers. This is because they can deliver the right color of light as well as introduce the energy more efficiently into the hair follicle for elimination. So why did we choose the Clarity II at Refresh Med Spa L.A.? This is simple. There is a synchronized cooling system that uses cryogen spray with EACH laser shot fired. This does two very important things. First of all it cools pigment cells of the skin which minimizes the chances of hyperpigmentation. Second, because the outer layers of skin are able to be cooled, we can turn up and increase the laser power which translates into a more effective hair removal treatment. Third, and also very important, this allows the treatment to be done WITHOUT the need for any numbing creams and with super fast speed. This is a very unique technology exclusive the the Clarity II. Additionally, the laser head has a thermometer that is constantly monitoring skin temperature and preventing the laser from firing onto skin that is too warm. This means a powerful back up system is keeping an eye on your skin to prevent complications.
When you look at the incredible safety mechanisms that have been married with practically painless hair removal treatment that is highly efficient and speedy, it is very obvious why the Clarity II is unmatched in the industry for hair removal.
Where should you go to get laser hair removal? You need to select a facility with the latest generation laser that has the best safety profile and efficiency. Equally important is a facility with operators that understand how to deliver laser to your skin properly to achieve that safety and efficiency. At Refresh Med Spa L.A. only laser certified personnel are allowed to operate the devices.
What do I do before laser hair removal? What do I do after laser hair removal?
Most importantly, we need the hair follicles to be present so they can be treated. Therefore, you should only shave the hair for at least 4-6 weeks before your laser session. Do NOT wax, thread, pluck, or use depilatory creams. If you have darker skin, avoid heavy sun exposure prior to treatment for 2 weeks and for 2 weeks after. After laser hair removal, you will want to use a gentle exfoliating brush or scrubber to clean the skin. This will help prevent ingrown hairs and allow the dead hair follicle to be expelled.
Have we convinced you to ditch the razor?
Laser hair removal offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for those seeking a more permanent solution to unwanted hair. From long-lasting results and precision to minimal discomfort and cost-effectiveness, it’s no wonder that laser hair removal has become a popular choice for many. If you’re considering this treatment, consult with a qualified practitioner to determine the best plan for your needs and enjoy the smooth, hair-free skin you’ve always wanted.