Hair removal is a hot topic in the beauty industry. Shaving can be irritating, repetitive, and harmful to the environment, while professional waxing can be cost-prohibitive.
These challenges have led many men and women to laser hair removal. Considered the most effective form of semi-permanent hair removal, the laser destroys the hair follicle to prevent future growth. Before investing in laser hair removal, it’s important to understand the journey ahead and plan accordingly.
Here are some top considerations to keep in mind when exploring laser hair removal.
Your Natural Hair Color
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While laser removal doesn’t work on gray hair, it can work on some shades of blonde and red. In many cases, lighter hair requires more treatments than darker one. Talk to your trusted practitioner to determine whether you’re eligible for treatment.
Your Typical Maintenance Schedule
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When you remove your hair by plucking, waxing, or threading, you’re pulling the hair out of the follicle. As such, the lasers will have nothing to target. Similarly, bleaching removes the pigment which also interferes with the laser’s efficacy.
If you’re planning to undergo laser hair removal, switch to shaving. Shaving right before your appointment can also improve its effectiveness.
If you’re planning to undergo laser hair removal, enjoy silky-smooth skin every day with the best IPL hair removal at home. It is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair from various parts of the body, including the face, legs, arms, and bikini area.
Your Underlying Skin Conditions
One of the biggest benefits of laser hair removal is that it’s generally safe for people with sensitive skin or underlying skin conditions. Laser hair removal generally doesn’t irritate the skin, and may cause less irritation than shaving or waxing. However, it’s important to highlight any concerns during your consultation appointment as your specialist may have certain recommendations for aftercare.
While it isn’t a skin condition, it’s worth noting that people with tattoos can’t have laser hair removal performed over ink.
Your Pain Management Strategy
Many people experience pain or discomfort during laser hair removal. This tends to be more intense in certain areas, like under the arms or the bikini line. People with a higher threshold for pain tend not to have a problem.
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Consider an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory before your appointment (with approval from your physician). It can also be helpful to schedule your appointment when you aren’t menstruating. Wear loose clothing for your appointment and consider icing the area if the discomfort persists.
Your After-appointment Plans
Getting laser hair removal isn’t invasive or debilitating, but there are some activities you should wait on until later. You may experience photosensitivity after your appointment and should stay out of the sun, using plenty of sunscreen whenever it’s unavoidable.
You should also avoid working out for 48 hours after you receive laser hair removal, as the motion can be irritating to the skin. If you notice it takes longer for your skin to return to normal, put your sweat session off for another day.
Your Provider
Choosing a provider is the most important consideration when exploring this hair removal option. Select a provider that has board-certified Medical Aestheticians, Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants. Your provider should be transparent about pricing and expectations to ensure the best possible quality of care.
Laser hair removal is a great way to ditch shaving and waxing for good. Look for a certified removal specialist, keep these key considerations in mind, and say goodbye to razors.
