Laser hair removal, everything you need to know-Beauty

Summer is really the best time to start laser hair removal treatments, if you have the habit.

Avoiding sun exposure is an important step and will make the laser hair removal process much easier. In addition, avoiding the sun will help you have a super smooth skin when summer begins.

How does laser hair removal work?

The energy from the laser is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle, heating it and destroying it at the root, helping to reduce future growth. Jeremy Tebbutt, founder of the Skin6 medical aesthetic clinic in Toronto, says laser hair removal can be done almost anywhere on the body.

Avoiding the sun will help you have a super smooth skin when summer begins.

Is laser hair removal painful?

This sensation is often described as a gentle prickling sensation, although it varies from person to person. Many modern machines offer built-in cooling technology that removes most of the sting and makes the procedure almost completely painless, although the skin may still be red and swollen for a day or so afterward.

How long does laser hair removal take?

According to experts, laser treatment does not produce immediate results, it takes days to weeks for hair to fall out and several visits to target different stages of growth.

You may see a significant drop in growth after the first session, but consistency is key. It takes on average six treatments four to six weeks apart to reap the full benefits, says Dr. Sonya Cook, board-certified dermatologist at Compass Dermatology in Toronto. That’s why you should start laser hair removal during the colder months.

Laser treatment does not produce immediate results.

Who is the best laser hair removal for?

Dr Cook notes: ‘Blonde, red, gray and white hair colors do not respond well to laser hair removal due to the lack of pigment, which is what attracts the laser beam and allows it to destroy the hair follicle.

Unlike in the past, today’s laser hair removal technology is suitable for all skin tones – lasers can penetrate deeper to the root of the hairs without damaging the pigmented skin. However, you should consult a professional to make sure they can safely perform the procedure for you.

‘The laser works on a specific wavelength to target the hair follicle and the technology has evolved to now suit different skin tones,’ explains Tebbutt.

Today’s laser hair removal technology is suitable for all skin tones.

How do you prepare for laser hair removal?

The day before your appointment, shave the areas where you are being lasered. Avoid waxing and plucking. ‘You don’t want to pull the hair at the root because that’s the target of the laser,’ says Dr Cook.

In addition, you should absolutely avoid sun exposure that causes skin color changes before treatment, and continue to stay out of the sun for at least a month afterward. During this stage, the less pigmented your skin, the better. You should also avoid hot showers, sweaty workouts, steam rooms, and saunas for two to three days after each appointment.

Laser hair removal is not completely permanent.

How much does laser hair removal cost?

Overall, laser hair removal by a certified supplier is a great investment. In urban areas, expect to pay about $100 to $150 per session for small areas, like your underarms or bikini area, and $300 to $600 per session for larger areas, like your legs.

Dr. Cook notes that, in many cases, laser hair removal is not completely permanent. You may need replacement treatments about once a year, so it depends on maintenance costs. It’s also important to note that hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can cause hair to continue growing.