What would you do to save yourself 10 minutes in the morning? If like us, shaving is the most irritating part of your routine, you may be considering laser hair removal. Here's absolutely everything you need to know before going to your first appointment.
A DERMATOLOGIST OFFICE IS YOUR BEST BET.
You want to have the safest experience to avoid any lasting skin damage, scarring, and other harmful risks. When it's so close to the skin, you have to be extra careful. We go to McGuiness Dermatology for all Laser hair removal needs.
YOU CAN'T WAX THE AREA FOR AT LEAST ONE MONTH BEFORE.
The laser targets the root, so the root must be intact for it to be most effective. Shaving with a razor will have to be your go-to method. Make sure to be clean-shaven before your appointment.
BE OPEN AND HONEST WITH YOUR PROVIDER.
For you to have the best skin possible post-laser, you must disclose with your service provider if you are on any antibiotics, acne treatments, or anything that makes you sensitive to the sun. You should also tell your aesthetician if you get cold sores or other herpes lesions, as the light from the laser can instigate a breakout.
IT WILL TAKE AROUND SIX SESSIONS TO PERMANENTLY REMOVE HAIR.
Repeat sessions are needed so you can cover all the hair, throughout the growth cycle. After about four to six weeks, when you're on your next session, the next set of hair is in the growth phase and the laser can target it.
IT IS A FAIRLY IN AND OUT PROCESS.
Small areas like the underarms can be as fast as five minutes or less. Large areas like legs or Brazilians take half an hour per session.
YES, LASER HAIR REMOVAL WILL HURT.
Discomfort from the zaps is to be expected. You have the option to use numbing creams or use a small fan to cool the area. It may also be a good idea to take Advil before the appointment. But be aware, these can only do so much. It feels like a small rubber band snaps over the more sensitive areas. Worry not; beauty is a pain, but as we said, it is a quick process.
AFTERCARE IS REALLY SIMPLE.
You'll be able to walk out of your dermatologist virtually feeling like nothing is different. Over the next few weeks between your sessions, the eliminated hair will fall out, and you'll be mostly smooth for life. You can use your favorite cooling products for redness and irritation.
