Laser For Hair Removal
Are you someone who is considering embarking on the transformative journey towards effortlessly smooth, hairless skin through the process of laser for hair removal?
Laser for hair removal, a cosmetic procedure offered by NuSkinnovation, is an end to the cycle of shaving, waxing and plucking unwanted hair. This procedure allows you to achieve silky smooth skin on a daily basis without having to worry about jumping through the shower minutes before heading to the beach with friends, or putting on that spaghetti strap top for a night out.
For anyone thinking about laser for hair removal, this article explores the intricacies of the procedure, its benefits, and what to expect from the experienced individuals at NuSkinnovation.
Laser For Hair Removal: At A Glance
Laser hair removal is a precise and safe procedure that targets dark, coarse hairs while leaving the skin unharmed. The melanin in your hair follicles absorb the light from the laser which damages the hair follicle and inhibits the growth of hair (after a certain number of sessions). Many people experience a significant reduction in hair growth after just a few sessions.
This procedure is optimal for individuals with lighter skin and darker hair because these conditions make it easier for the laser to target the hair follicles (due to the contrast). It is essential to have this procedure performed by professionals such as NuSkinnovation, to ensure safety and optimal results.
Factors To Consider Before Starting Laser For Hair Removal
1. Skin and Hair Type
Fair hair and fair skin or dark hair and dark skin makes the laser hair removal treatment slightly more tricky. This is because the contrast between light skin and dark hair allows the laser to target the hair follicle more easily, so the lack of this contrast would make it difficult for the laser to be precise.
Individuals with darker/tanned skin are not recommended candidates for this treatment. The strength of the laser would need to be turned down and this may result in needing more sessions. If you fall into this category and still want to go ahead with treatment, it is still possible but you should understand that the process may take slightly longer for you.
2. Hair Colour and Thickness
This is the one place where dark, thick hair is a blessing. This hair type results in the quickest results and fewer sessions. Therefore, for these candidates, the process is much cheaper and quicker. For candidates with lighter, thinner hair it is still possible to achieve results but it may take a lot longer, therefore the process will be slightly more expensive due to more sessions.
3. Health Considerations
It is always advised to consult your healthcare provider before undertaking this procedure. Especially if you have underlying health issues or are pregnant. It is also important to let your laser hair removal technician be aware of any medication you are on (topical and pills).
4. Sun Exposure
Avoid sun exposure at all costs before and after your treatment. Tanned skin is not optimal for this treatment, therefore avoid tanning and tanning beds. After your treatment your skin will be very sensitive and exposure to UV rays will likely result in skin damage.
5. Expectations
Laser hair removal can be a long process. Understanding this will minimise frustration and impatience.
6. Cost
The cost of this procedure varies from person to person as it may take longer for certain individuals. At NuSkinnovation, the price of laser for hair removal ranges from R300 to R1950 depending on the area you are treating. Some may argue that laser hair removal is too expensive, but in the long run it ends up being cheaper than booking a wax appointment every 2-3 weeks. This is because you may reach a point where that hair is permanently gone and you will only need to attend a session every 1-2 years to maintain the progress.
7. Pain Tolerance
Pain tolerance differs from person to person. Some describe it as a light tingling sensation while others experience a more intense pinching sensation. If after your first session you found it extremely uncomfortable, taking an over the counter pain killer is allowed. You may also consult your technician and ask to turn down the strength of the laser if you are experiencing discomfort. NuSkinnovation also offers methods to help minimise pain, such cooling machines.
8. Hair Removal Area
Underarms or upper lip is a great place to start with your hair removal journey. It is a very small area so the treatment will only last about 10 minutes. You can experience the sensation of the laser and decide whether you are able to undertake a larger area such as your legs or arms. Also, by first experimenting with a smaller area you can see how long it takes for your individual hair colour and thickness and this may help with budgeting and planning once you move onto a larger surface area.
9. Professional Consultation
By consulting with a professional before undergoing your treatment you may be able to budget and plan the best time to start the procedure. Each treatment is spaced out by a few weeks so it takes proper planning and scheduling so that you don’t miss an appointment allowing the process to be quick and efficient. If you have any doubts or concerns it is always helpful to consult a professional.
10. Aftercare and Maintenance
We recommend avoiding hot showers and baths: This is because your skin may be more sensitive after treatment and you do not want to irritate it with hot water as this may increase the redness and swelling. Use a gentle cleanser and avoid irritating products with a perfume or fragrance. Use an unscented moisturiser after cleansing and if there is any hair growth you would like to get rid of before your next treatment, then use a razor (do not wax!).
Aftercare and maintenance can depend on the type of laser and treatment area, it is always advisable to consult your practitioner to minimise risks and ensure your skin remains healthy and happy.
11. Timing
It is best to undergo your laser hair removal treatment during the wintertime as it is much easier to avoid sunshine during this time. It is also recommended to not get this treatment if you are sunburnt or tanned.
How To Prepare For Laser Hair Removal
- Do not wax. By waxing you are removing the hair follicle temporarily and this is the most important area for laser hair removal.
- Do not apply cream to the treated area before the procedure.
- Avoid sunshine (i.e no tanning) before and after treatment.
- Shave before your appointment.
- Inform the consultant about any medication you are taking currently as some medications can interfere and effect the process of laser hair removal or make your skin more sensitive to the laser light.
The Process And Results
Everyone in the room will be provided with protective eyewear as looking into this concentrated beam of light is very harmful. The duration of the procedure depends on the size of the area, the upper lip may take a few minutes, whilst legs can take up to an hour.
After your treatment exposure to the sun must be avoided. You may notice some redness and swelling which can be reduced by applying a cool compress.
It is highly likely you will notice immediate results after your first treatment. This varies from person to person, due to their hair colour and thickness. Most patients need around 6 treatments to achieve permanent hair loss. This hair loss should be maintained by attending one laser treatment annually. Even if the hair grows back, it usually grows back much lighter and thinner.
IPL VS Laser Hair Removal Treatment
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and laser hair removal are both well known methods for reaching long term hair reduction, but they differ in terms of what technology is used and how they work. Here is the comparison:
1. Technology
IPL vs laser hair removal: IPL machinery uses a broad spectrum of light wavelengths to target the hair follicles, compared to laser hair removal which uses a single, concentrated beam of light.
Both achieve the same result in the long run. It might vary from person to person which option would be the best for them, which is why an initial consultation is very important.
2. Pain and Discomfort
IPL treatments are described as less painful than laser hair removal. Laser hair removal can be described as mild discomfort with some sensations of itching and stinging. Our team at NuSkinnovation is fully equipped to keep you as comfortable as possible, and will ensure that you don’t experience any unavoidable pain or discomfort.
3. Budget
Laser treatments are usually cheaper per session compared to IPL hair removal.
In summary, both methods work. Your choice should depend on your skin type, hair type, budget and the professional services near you. Consulting a professional at NuSkinnovation may help you decide based on your individual needs and goals.
About NuSkinnovation:
NuSkinnovation is an aesthetic clinic that offers a range of treatments and services ranging from tattoo removal to hair removal. We are based in the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, with offices in Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Port Elizabeth.
Our team of qualified practitioners and consultants are fully equipped to guide you on this transformative journey and are trained to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout the process. Contact us for any questions regarding laser hair removal and one of our practitioners will provide quality advice and a treatment plan most suitable for you.