At Wellskin Med Spa in Dallas, TX, we want to help you look and feel your best. That’s why we offer laser hair removal: a non-invasive treatment that targets hair follicles with precision and effectiveness to reduce regrowth over time. Compared to traditional methods like shaving or waxing, laser hair removal provides a long-lasting outcome. With its ability to target various body areas, this procedure is an attractive option for individuals seeking a long-term solution to unwanted hair. If you’re thinking of trying this treatment for the first time, read on to find out what to expect.
What Should I Expect From My First Laser Hair Removal Session?
Before Treatment
Before the treatment you’ll need to come for a consultation with one of our certified laser technicians. During the consultation you will discuss your medical history, skin types, and hair color; this information will be used to assess whether or not you are a suitable candidate for this hair removal process. If you are suitable to go ahead with treatment, they will also describe the treatment in full so you know what to expect.
To prepare for your hair removal treatment, you will be asked to shave the area that you want to be treated a day or two in advance of your appointment. You should also stay out of the sun for a week before and avoid tanning beds so that your skin is not darkened or irritated before treatment.
During Treatment
When you come for your hair removal session we will take you into a private treatment room and help you prepare. We may administer some numbing cream to the treatment area if you have concerns about sensitivity. Depending on the area being treated, we may also provide you with protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the light of the laser during the treatment session.
As the laser penetrates your skin to target your hair follicles you will feel a warming sensation and possibly a mild snapping feeling (like an elastic band). The length of your hair removal session can vary significantly depending on the area you want treated. If the laser treatment is somewhere like your upper lip or between the brows then it may only take a couple of minutes, but larger areas like the legs and back will take much longer.
After Treatment
It’s common to experience some redness in the area you’ve had treated, and some people may also feel a mild tingling sensation. Our practitioner will provide you with aftercare instructions to help your recovery.
Your results won’t be immediate; so don’t worry if it takes a couple of weeks to begin to see hair fall out in the treated areas. In addition, you are likely to require multiple treatment sessions to achieve perfectly hairless skin.
Why Will I Need Multiple Sessions of Hair Removal?
Believe us, if we could complete this treatment in just one session, we would! However, multiple sessions of laser hair removal are typically required because of the natural growth cycle of hair and the way the laser targets hair follicles. Hair grows in different phases, and not all hair follicles are actively producing hair at the same time.
The growth cycle consists of three main phases. The phase in which hair is actively growing is called the anagen phase. The laser is most effective when hair is in this stage because it targets the pigment in the hair follicle. In the catagen, or transitional phase, hair growth slows down, and the hair follicle begins to shrink. Then in the telogen, or resting phase, the old hair falls out, and the new hair begins to form.
Since the laser is most effective during the anagen phase, and not all hair is in this stage simultaneously, multiple sessions are needed to target hair during different growth cycles. We will usually space your treatments several weeks apart to allow time for hair to progress through the various phases and for new hair to enter the anagen phase.
Additionally, hair growth patterns and density vary among individuals, and factors such as hormones, genetics, and age can influence the effectiveness of the treatment. Multiple sessions increase the likelihood of targeting hair in different phases and ensuring that a higher percentage of hair follicles are effectively treated.
How Can I Help My Recovery and Get the Best Results?
Recovery after laser hair removal is generally quick and straightforward, and most people can resume their regular activities immediately. However, there are some common post-treatment effects and guidelines to be aware of:
Be Kind To Your Skin
It’s normal to see redness and feel some tenderness in the area you’ve had treated for a day or two. You may find that applying a cool compress or an ice pack to the sensitive area provides relief. You should also avoid harsh skincare products (such as AHAs and retinol) and activities that could irritate the skin, such as hot showers, saunas, or strenuous exercise. It is good to use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer, as this will help soothe your skin and keep it healthy.
Use Sun Protection
For a few weeks after treatment you should minimize your sun exposure. If you must go out, then be sure to apply sunscreen with a high SPF to the treated area. It is important to do this because sun exposure can increase the risk of pigmentation changes or complications.
Avoid Other Hair Removal Methods
While undergoing laser hair removal, it’s important to avoid plucking, waxing, or using depilatory creams in the treated area between sessions. However shaving is usually allowed, and we may specifically recommend it, depending on your treatment plan.
We are committed not only to giving you the best treatment, but also the best recovery. If you have concerns or experience unusual symptoms, such as prolonged redness or blistering, it’s important to contact us promptly.
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