We get lots of questions about laser hair removal! Here are our tips and answers which will help you to find out the answers to the most commonly-asked questions about laser hair removal.
When should I start laser hair removal?
It’s best to start laser hair removal during the cooler months of autumn and winter when sun exposure is lower, and you’ll be out of the sun.However, if the area you’re treating is hidden day to day – like the underarms or genital areas – it doesn’t really matter, we can treat it year round.
What’s the difference between laser hair removal and IPL?
Both laser and IPL can be used for hair removal, but at ASPA we only use laser!
When it comes to hair removal, laser’s target – the hair’s pigment and root – is more specific than IPL, and so is more effective and has fewer complications.
I have Black skin. Can I have laser hair removal?
A while ago, the answer would have been ‘no’. Darker skin tones have always been much trickier to treat safely and effectively with lasers because old technologies were unable to distinguish between melanin (pigment) in the hair and that in the skin. At ASPA we use the newest types of lasers that are able to target the hair alone without creeping over onto the surrounding skin, making laser hair removal possible for those with Black skin.
I have blonde, grey/white or red hair. Can I have laser hair removal?
Unfortunately, laser hair removal is usually unsuitable for those with blonde, grey/white or red hair (some shades are OK). This is because there simply isn’t any (or enough) pigment for the laser to detect. Come for a free consultation at ASPA to find out for sure if it’ll work for you.
How many sessions will I need?
Depending on the area and coarseness of the hair, most people need around 8 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
Is laser hair removal really permanent?
The goal is to achieve around an 80 per cent reduction in hair after the recommended course of treatments for each individual, but it’s best to think of laser hair removal as minimising and slowing hair growth over time rather than eliminating it completely forever – the hair will start to grow back thinner, lighter and sparser. Top-up maintenance treatments may be required periodically.
In which areas can I get laser hair removal?
Pretty much anywhere and everywhere. Common areas for women include the underarms, legs, bikini line, Brazilian area, upper lip, and chin. Men most commonly have laser hair removal on the chest and stomach, back, hands and fingers, and face, but any body hair can be treated.
How do I prepare for laser hair removal?
Don’t wax, expose the area to direct sunlight or use self-tanner in the four weeks before your appointment.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
It depends on your pain threshold, but to be honest, yes. It’s not unbearable but it’s certainly not comfortable. Luckily, laser hair removal is a very quick treatment and laser at ASPA has built-in cooling mechanisms that make it much more tolerable by blowing a constant stream of ice-cold air onto the skin. You can always take a couple of paracetamol (NOT ibuprofen) beforehand if you’re really worried.
Is laser hair removal safe?
Yes. Provided there’s a high enough level of pigment in the hair for the laser to pick up compared to the skin’s melanin and see an experienced laser practitioner who uses a good device, it’s a very safe treatment.
Is there any downtime with laser hair removal?
Not really, you just need to avoid getting the area hot and sweaty for 48 hours. We always apply Post Laser Gel and recommned for you to do the same at home to instantly soothe the treated area.
Are there any side effects from laser hair removal?
Aside from redness and minor skin irritation, other side effects are very rare. These can include temporary crusting and changes to skin colour (hyper- or hypopigmentation). Burns are even rarer but can happen.
How long will it take to see results?
Most people usually start to see some difference in hair growth – in terms of colour, coarseness and speed of regrowth – within a few sessions.
If you have any questions about laser hair removal, please contact us via 070 345 0215 or info@aspadirect.com.