How to avoid a laser hair removal nightmare
Have you heard rumours of burns, pain and redness after laser hair removal for unwanted hair? While laser hair removal is perfectly safe and relatively pain-free, it pays to do your research, be prepared and follow the recommended aftercare. Here are our top tips on making sure you avoid a laser hair removal nightmare.
Choose the right clinic
Perhaps the most important decision you will make when it comes to laser hair removal is choosing the right clinic. Most reputable skin clinics will offer a complimentary initial consultation to ensure you are provided with the best possible treatment options for your requirements. This allows the technician or therapist to assess your eligibility for treatment and inform you of your options before you commit to payment for services. At Australian Skin Clinics, we offer free consultations prior to your hair removal session to ensure we understand your needs and can provide the highest quality treatment.
It is also important to check that your clinic has access to the latest tools and equipment in order to provide you with the best possible service. If the clinic appears run down or the equipment looks outdated, consider taking your business elsewhere. At Australian Skin Clinics, we use the highest quality Candela YAG and Gentlelase lasers for medical-grade treatments with long-lasting results. All our laser technicians are qualified, professional and above all compliant with the highest government regulations, including Class IV laser training in hair removal.
Before the session
Preparation is important when it comes to laser hair removal. Make sure you avoid wax/depilatory cream, fake tan and getting sunburnt up to two weeks before your session. This is important, as the treatment uses a cosmetic laser that shoots a concentrated beam of light directly at the pigment in your hair follicles and will also sizzle any pigment on your skin, including tanning products.
Ensure you shave the area to be treated roughly 12 hours prior to your laser hair removal session. This may seem counterintuitive, however it is safer and more effective to treat shaven skin. Damage can occur if the laser energy hits the hair above the skin, as the hair shaft can heat up and result in burning. Read our list of 10 Things You Need To Know Before Laser here.
During the session
When you arrive for your laser hair removal session, double check the operator has a laser license and their equipment is gold-standard and medical-grade, which is what you’ll find at Australian Skin Clinics. Once your session has commenced, make sure you advise your laser technician if you experience serious discomfort. Most people find laser removal to be quite tolerable and describe it as an elastic band snapping the skin. However, if you are in pain, a technician can adjust the laser accordingly or provide relief.
After the session
Ensure you follow your technician’s post-care advice stringently and avoid makeup and the sun for 48 hours after your laser hair removal session. Each person will react differently to treatment, and common responses may include pinkness and mild swelling around the hair follicles. This can be combated by applying post-laser treatment products (e.g. Balense Recovery Cream) and cold compresses. Continue for up to five days if necessary. If you experience any serious discomfort and/or swelling, contact your clinic immediately.
So, what are you waiting for? click here to book now and take advantage of our 3-pack Laser Hair Removal Maintenance offer for a limited time only!
