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Fall is here… so it’s time to embrace sweater weather, go apple picking, drink pumpkin spice lattes AND get started on being hair-free for next summer! Fall is a great time to start laser hair removal because your summer tan has likely faded, and you have less sun exposure (so long sweet summer… but if you start laser now, then you’ll still have summer in mind as you’re getting ready for it).
Laser hair removal has quickly risen to become one of the most popular methods of hair removal in North America and we want to help you get started on your journey, but first, what exactly is laser hair removal and why should you get on board with it?
Laser hair removal is a procedure where a concentrated beam of light (otherwise known as a laser) is used to remove unwanted hair almost anywhere on your body. During the procedure, a laser emits a light that is then absorbed by the melanin in one’s skin. From there, this light is converted to heat, which in turn damages the hair follicles in the skin. This damage prevents future growth, which is why laser treatments last so much longer than other forms of hair removal, and why women and men who want a longer-term (versus permanent) hair removal solution often turn to laser as opposed to other hair removal methods.
But enough about the science behind it. For those considering getting laser hair removal, we’ve come up with a list of dos and don’ts to make the whole experience as seamless as possible. Check them out below!
Do Inform Your Laserologist of Medical History in Advance of Every Appointment
When beginning your laser treatment, you will be asked if you are on any medications and if you have any health conditions, but what about for every other appointment?
Things change, so it’s important for your Laserologist to be up to date on your current medical history before every appointment. This is likely to be a brief check in before every appointment to make sure nothing has changed since your last appointment. For example; if you got a tattoo in the area being lasered, have conceived, have had a chemical peel or started and/or switched medications etc. your Laserologist will need to know. Generally speaking, laser hair removal is perfectly safe unless you are pregnant or breast feeding, but if you are on any medication, check with your doctor to ensure there are no contraindications to laser treatment. A few medications to be conscious of are acne medications such as Accutane and Retin-A and anything that makes the skin photosensitive.
Don’t Assume that All Laser Hair Removal Machines Are Created Equal
Too few people realize that not all laser hair removal machines are created equal. This is something we want to draw attention to. There are four main kinds of laser hair removal machines: Nd:Yag, Diode, Alexandrite, and Ruby. Each has a different set of pros and cons, which is why the type of machine utilized at the clinic you want to go to matters. To choose a clinic with a machine that’s right for you, you should first consider your skin tone and hair type. Here at WAXON, we only use the best. That is why we use the 810-Diode Vectus Laser, one of the most advanced lasers in the industry that specializes only in hair removal. It has numerous safety features, as well as customizable settings that we can tailor to each client. Even better, it has a cooling tip that helps reduce the pain and it takes about half the amount of time to complete a service than waxing.
Do Your Research on Pricing and Understand Your Options. Laser Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank!
Keep in mind that just like all laser hair removal machines are not created equal, that laser also varies in price from place to place too. Of course, it’s good to be price savvy but make sure you do your due diligence before getting treatments. At WAXON, we offer reputable services and really great pricing structures for packages, single sessions and even better, interest-free financing options where we cover the interest! This allows you to move forward with your laser treatments at the same price just spanned over a 6 or 12 month period at no additional cost to you (we’re always thinking quality, convenience and affordability).
Do Expect that to Become Hair-Free it Will Take Multiple Appointments
Only a few years ago, laser hair removal may have taken ten or more appointments and potentially still not have achieved desired results. However, since then laser machines have come a long way, which means you can expect the entire process to be shorter than it used to be (and most people will be left hair-free after just a few appointments). Generally speaking, you will require between four - eight appointments to achieve optimal results. Also, keep in mind appointments can’t be made back to back as you need to wait for the hair follicles to re-enter the growth cycle. Since not all laser hair removal machines are the same, the amount of time you will need to wait between appointments varies. At WAXON, your Laserologist will confirm with you following your appointment when you should book back in, however, typically we recommend the following amount of time between appointments: four weeks for face and neck, six weeks for arms, underarms, and bikini/Brazilian, and eight weeks for legs, chest, and back.
Do Expect All Appointments to be Different In Length
The length of each appointment will vary depending on the size of the area being treated. Expect between 10 - 30 minutes, depending on the area. For example, a Brazilian will take longer to complete (approximately 20 minutes), whereas the upper lip or underarms will be a matter of minutes.
Don’t Wax, Tweeze, or Epilate Before or Between Appointments
If you have a laser hair removal appointment coming up, then there are a few key things you should know. First, do not wax, tweeze, or epilate the hair in the treatment area for two to four weeks before the appointment or between appointments. That said, shaving is a must. In fact, all areas being lasered (even the face) must be shaved very close and clean the night before your appointment. Shaving only in the treatment area ensures that there will be a “target” for the laser to hit in order to destroy the hair for effective results. In addition, in the two weeks leading up to the appointment (and between appointments), avoid excessive UV exposure, self-tanning, or tan enhancers of any kind.
Do Wear Protective Eyewear During Each Appointment
It’s possible that your eyes could be exposed to direct, reflected or scattered light from the laser machine. Wearing protective eyewear ensures the safest service possible and protects your ocular tissues from the laser beam. No need to start googling where to get the best glasses, they will be provided for you by the technician performing the service. Also, speaking of eyes, unfortunately brow shaping is not an available laser service (but wouldn’t it be nice if it was? We can dream).
Do Look at Laser as a Long-Term Hair Removal Option
Laser hair removal is one of the best options out there for a permanent reduction in hair growth. Overall, it’s best to think of laser hair removal as a long-term solution to unwanted hair, and as a way of significantly reducing the amount of unwanted hair. However, studies have shown that women who experience hormonal changes, such as when they’re pregnant or entering menopause, can result in new hair growth, but if that happens, the hair will be lighter, finer, and there will be fewer of them. Nothing a little touch-up appointment can't fix!
Do Use Numbing Cream to Minimize Possible Discomfort
The laser machine used at WAXON makes for the most comfortable laser experience possible, with the speed of the technology combined with a cooling tip to minimize discomfort and with laser services being so quick, you’ll be in and out before you know it! However, there are clients who may still find it uncomfortable especially in the more sensitive areas, so if you're concerned about the pain, try Zensa numbing cream! You just need to apply it to the area being treated 30 minutes prior to your appointment for it to work its magic. We promise it will help to give you a virtually painless service!
So, are you ready to start your laser hair removal journey? Hopefully this inspires you to book a consult or an appointment so you can be hair-free by next summer. We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have, just reach out to laser@waxon.ca. Also, please remember to check with your doctor if you have a serious skin disorder or disease to ensure laser is safe for you.
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