When I finally threw in the towel and decided to get laser hair removal, I didn’t think that the results would be this good. Truly. I was so sick of shaving every few days – the knicks, the dryness, the “missing giant swaths of hair” – I was over it.
After doing a little research, I decided to get rid of unwanted hair once and for all. I booked an appointment at a well-reviewed laser hair removal clinic here in my city, but after the first treatment, I dreaded going. It was painful as hell, and a botched treatment left me with burns all over my top lip. I was hurt (literally and figuratively), and scared about proceeding. I never went back to that clinic and returned to shaving. Sigh.
When I met Dr. Sam Hetz of Concept Medical, I told him about my terrible experience. He was a little shocked and told me that burns are absolutely *not* normal and that his clinic provided safe and virtually pain-free laser hair removal. I looked at him skeptically and he reassured me again. I decided to jump back in and complete my treatments.
I’m so glad I did. I opted to finish my bikini line and will complete my upper lip and chin soon, along with the linea (treasure trail!) and underarms.
My first underarm treatment was EXCELLENT. I braced myself with the familiar burning and stinging that I was used to at the other clinic, but it never came. The treatment was over in a flash and was pain-free. I was delighted. Three treatments in, and I’m almost completely hair-free! Also, I have noticed that my underarm skin has begun to lighten up as it is no longer being irritated constantly by a razor. It looks so much better!
I told a few of my friends about my experience and they were all super curious. I always received a ton of questions about this, so, I put together a list of things you should know/consider before jumping into laser hair removal:
Find a reputable clinic!!
I did my research – I promise, but I still got burned, (again, literally and figuratively). The second time around, I was lucky to find Concept Medical which only uses state of the art equipment which is designed for all skin tones. Make sure you do your research thoroughly and take the time to have a consultation before jumping in. Ask a million questions! It’s the only way to be safe!
Stay Out Of The Sun
Before and during your treatments, stay out of the sun. The laser targets melanin in your skin, not hair colour. If you are tanning or sunburned, the treatment will not be effective. I started my treatments in the winter months in order to be hair-free for summer.
Shave Beforehand
You have to shave the areas you are having lasered beforehand. As the laser is targeting the hair follicle, do not get waxed before your treatments either as you actually have to have the follicle there in order for the treatment to work.
You Need A Few Treatments To See The Results
People with lighter hair usually require less treatments to see the best results. Those with darker hair will require more treatments. Since not all hair is in the active stage at the same time, repeat treatments are necessary to achieve the results you want.
The best candidates for laser hair removal are those with fair skin and dark coarse hair. That being said, the laser hair removal system at Concept Medical is top-notch and approved for all skin types (but those with blonde, red and grey hair generally does not respond well to laser hair removal). Concept Medical meets with all candidates to assess any needs, potential risks and benefits. I felt totally at ease after my first consultation and was ready to get this started.
Laser Hair Removal Near The Eyes? NO.
Your physician will provide you with a cool pair of goggles to protect your eyes from the laser. Thinking of getting your unibrow lasered? Sorry, guys. That’s a big fat “NO”.
The Key To Laser Hair Removal? Consistency.
Go to all of your scheduled appointments. If you miss one, reschedule as soon as you can. Hair grows in phases – that’s why your physician will schedule your treatments every four to six weeks. This allows for the laser to zap hair follicles as they become active after dormancy.
It’s Not The Most Comfortable
While Concept Medical’s laser hair removal is virtually painless, you do feel a slight stinging sensation. It is very light though. My first experience at that other clinic was terrible: incredibly painful and sore for hours afterwards. THIS IS NOT NORMAL. If this does happen to you, run for the hills. Run straight to Concept Medical and get it done properly!!!
Suncreen Is Laser Hair Removal’s Best Friend
Be sure to put on a healthy amount of sunscreen after your treatments. Your skin will be a little sensitive after treatments so you want to protect it as much as you can. You are more prone to sunburns after treatments.
Face Treatments + Laser Hair Removal = NO
Do not get facials, waxing, microdermabrasions, use rough exfoliators or pluck hairs before having laser hair removal. If you do, tell your physician or technician beforehand. They will irritate your skin making the laser hair removal painful.
It’s An Investment
Laser Hair Removal is not inexpensive, but it is a worthy investment. In fact, it is the best beauty investment I have ever made. If you are insecure about back hair, arm hair, a thick mustache that does not go well with your lipstick (ha!), treat yourself to laser hair removal. It’s safe and effective, and you will see huge results usually after two-three months.
A friend of mine hated her facial hair and was so pleased after her treatments. Not only has the hair not returned two years after the treatments, her skin lightened up in those areas too. No more five o’clock shadow!
If you are thinking of indulging in laser hair removal, I highly recommend Concept Medical. Dr. Sam Hetz is friendly, knowledgeable and happy to answer all of your questions. In addition, Concept Medical offers a beautiful, relaxing space with top of the line equipment.
Concept Medical is located at 11 Holland Avenue, Suite 400. Feel free to book a consultation by calling (613) 829-1266 or by emailing them using the contact form on their website.
Check out Concept Medical on Facebook and be sure to follow the clinic on Instagram to keep up-to-date on all of their treatment options.
Dominique is a Canadian-based fashion and beauty influencer with a strong voice in Ottawa’s black community. Since launching her blog Style Domination in 2015, she has amassed a global fanbase. Dominique shares her life through beautiful imagery and compelling story-telling that speaks to her fans on a personal level. She’s been featured in The Guardian, Flare, The Kit and Cityline. She also hosts events for Dress for Success, the Gem Conference, and has been named a United Way Person 2 Know for the past three years.
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