What to Expect During a Laser Hair Removal Session

Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular methods for achieving smooth, hair-free skin. Whether you’re looking to eliminate unwanted hair on your legs, face, or other areas of your body, this treatment offers a long-lasting solution that saves time and effort compared to traditional methods like shaving, waxing, and plucking. If you’re considering laser hair removal but are unsure about what the process involves, you’re not alone. In this blog from Beautiful You MD, we’ll walk you through what to expect during a laser hair removal session, including the areas of the body that can be treated.

How Laser Hair Removal Works

Laser hair removal treatment uses a focused beam of light that targets the pigment in the hair follicles. The laser emits light that is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair, damaging the follicle and inhibiting future hair growth. Over time, with repeated treatments, the targeted hair follicles are weakened, leading to permanent or long-lasting hair reduction.

Because hair grows in cycles, multiple sessions are needed to effectively treat all the hair in a given area. Typically, patients will need anywhere from 4 to 6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart to achieve the desired results.

Areas of the Body That Can Be Treated with Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is versatile and can be used on most areas of the body. Here are some of the most popular treatment areas:

• Face: The upper lip, chin, and sideburns are common areas for laser hair removal. It can also be used to treat the jawline and neck for both men and women.
  
• Underarms: Laser hair removal is highly effective for treating underarm hair. It offers a longer-lasting solution than shaving and can help reduce the amount of ingrown hairs in this sensitive area.
  
• Arms and Legs: Both the upper and lower arms, as well as the legs, are common areas for laser hair removal. For larger areas like the legs, the treatment may take longer, but the results are worth it.
  
• Back: Many men opt for laser hair removal on the back to eliminate excessive hair. It’s a highly effective way to achieve a smooth back without the hassle of shaving or waxing.
  
• Bikini Area: Laser hair removal is perfect for the bikini line, offering a clean, smooth appearance. It can be used for both the Brazilian bikini area and regular bikini line treatments.
  
• Chest and Abdomen: Many men and women seek laser hair removal for the chest and abdominal area to reduce unwanted hair and achieve a cleaner appearance.

What to Expect Before the Session

1. Consultation: Your provider will schedule a consultation before your first session to assess your skin and hair type, discuss your goals, and ensure that laser hair removal is the right option for you. During the consultation, your medical history will be reviewed, and any contraindications (like active skin infections or certain medications) will be addressed.
   
2. Preparing the Targeted Area: It’s important to shave the treatment area before your session. This ensures that the laser targets the hair follicles beneath the surface of the skin, rather than the visible hair above the skin, which can cause unnecessary discomfort during the procedure. You should avoid waxing, plucking, or bleaching the area before the treatment, as these methods can disrupt the hair follicle and interfere with the laser’s effectiveness.
   
3. Avoid Sun Exposure: For about two weeks before your session, you should avoid sun exposure and tanning beds. Tanned skin can increase the risk of side effects such as burns or hyperpigmentation. Be sure to apply sunscreen regularly if you’re going to be outside.

What To Expect During Laser Hair Removal

1. Comfortable Environment: Your provider at Beautiful You MD will make sure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. You may be asked to wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light. Depending on the area being treated, you may also be given a topical numbing cream to reduce discomfort. Many patients find that the treatment is relatively painless, describing the sensation as a slight stinging or snapping feeling (similar to the snap of a rubber band against the skin).
   
2. Treatment Process: The provider will use a handheld laser device that is moved across the treatment area. The device will emit light pulses that target the hair follicles. The length of the session depends on the size of the area being treated. Smaller areas like the upper lip or underarms may take only about 10-15 minutes, while larger areas like the back or legs can take up to an hour.
   
3. Cooling Mechanisms: To minimize discomfort and protect your skin, many laser devices have built-in cooling mechanisms. These cooling systems may include a chilled tip or air cooling, which helps soothe the skin and reduce any discomfort during the procedure.
   
4. Feeling During the Session: Most patients report feeling mild discomfort during the treatment, but the sensation is usually well-tolerated. If you have a low pain threshold, talk to your provider about options for additional numbing agents or cooling techniques.

Post-Treatment Care

After the laser hair removal session, you may experience some temporary side effects, but there are also steps you can take to ensure the best results:

1. It’s common to experience some redness, swelling, or slight irritation in the treated area. These effects typically subside within a few hours to a few days. You can apply soothing lotions like aloe vera gel to help alleviate any discomfort.
   
2. As mentioned earlier, avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks after the procedure. Use sunscreen regularly if you’re going outdoors to protect the treated skin and prevent pigmentation changes.
   
3. After the session, avoid plucking, waxing, or any other method of hair removal that involves removing the hair from the follicle. Shaving is generally fine, but allow the hair to naturally shed over time after the treatment.
   
4. Since hair grows in cycles, additional sessions will be required to treat all hair follicles effectively. Be sure to follow your provider’s recommended treatment schedule to achieve the best long-term results.

Laser hair removal is an excellent option for those looking to eliminate unwanted hair in a safe, effective, and long-lasting way. With minimal discomfort and little downtime, it’s an efficient method for achieving smooth skin. Whether you’re treating small areas like the upper lip or larger areas like your back or legs, laser hair removal offers lasting results that will leave you feeling confident and smooth.

Choose Beautiful You MD For The Best In Aesthetic Services

If you’re considering aesthetic services in Kailua-Kona and the surrounding neighborhoods, look no further than Beautiful You MD. Dr. Ilena Sanchez-Anderson, MD, has a passion for aesthetics and has received extensive training from world-renowned experts in aesthetic medicine. Dr. Sanchz-Anderson attends multiple conferences around the world to bring the best and most innovative technology to Hawai’i, and has practiced medicine in Hawai’i for over 20 years. For the latest acne treatments, laser facials, microneedling, or expert guidance on Botox and dermal fillers, call Beautiful You MD today at 808-322-2544.