Are you sick of every day having to shave, the pain of waxing, or the frustration of ingrown hairs? You are not alone! You shouldn’t have to be concerned with achieving smooth, hair-free skin every day.If you are ready for smooth, hair-free skin and a polished glow that is effortless, you are in the right place, laser hair removal. Laser hair removal is one of the most effective, efficient, and longest-lasting ways to achieve unwanted hair reduction while giving you effortless, smooth skin.
Before you throw away your razor, the final moment of your shaving history, especially if you are going to stop shaving altogether, I imagine you have more questions. What actually happens during the laser hair removal procedure? How does it actually work? What can you expect before, during and after the laser hair removal session?
You are going to discover everything from fuzz to fabulous!
These areas include:
- Face (upper lip, chin, cheeks)
- Underarms
- Legs
- Bikini area
- Arms
- Back and chest
With a series of sessions, many people enjoy hair reduction for the long-term, and what does regrow is much finer in thickness and texture, if it grows back at all.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Hair grows in cycles and not all hairs are active at the same time. Laser hair removal in Toronto works most effectively in the anagen phase (the growth phase) when hair is actively growing and still connected to the hair follicle. This is why multiple sessions are required, usually spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. This time is needed to catch all of your hair in the proper phase.
With each session, we slowly kill active follicles which will leave you with smoother skin and less hair over time.
What to Expect: Step-by-Step
Before Your Appointment
- Book a Consult
Most clinics will do a consult exam before they will start treatment to evaluate your skin tone and hair color, medical history, and treatment goals. This helps them to understand if you qualify for the procedure and what particular laser technology would work best for your skin.
- Prepare the Treatment Area
Shave the treatment area the day before your appointment. Avoid all hair removal methods such as wax, pluck, or using depilatory creams to ensure the hair follicle is left intact for treatment.
For at least 2 weeks prior to your treatment, avoid tanning or sun exposure.
In the days before your appointment, avoid using products such as retinoids or exfoliant products, especially on treated facial areas.
While In Treatment
- Clean and Preparation
An area-specific cleaning will be performed to eliminate any oils, lotions, or make-up. Protective goggles will be provided for your eyes to block the laser light.
- Laser Process
A handheld laser will be applied to your skin. You will feel a quick snapping or stinging sensation, which many people describe as a rubber band snapping on your skin. A lot of modern lasers now have cooling systems built in or use cooling gels to add comfort.
Treatment time may vary by the area treated – if you’re only treating small spots, like the upper lip, it may only take a few minutes. If you are treating an entire area like legs or back, it can take up to an hour.
After Treatment
- Immediate Aftercare
It is normal to experience redness or mild swelling – it’s similar to having a mild sunburn. Redness will go away usually within a few hours and certainly within a full day. You can apply aloe vera or a cool compress to the area to offer some relief.
- Avoid sun and heat:
Steer clear of harsh skincare products, saunas, hot showers, and sunshine over the next 24 to 48 hours. You wish to keep the area clean and protected.
- Shedding Phase
In the following days or weeks after your session, hairs that were treated will begin to shed and fall out. This is not new growth; it is your body trying to eliminate the hair that has been damaged. Avoid picking or plucking — just let it fall out naturally.
- Repeat as Necessary
To achieve the best results, most individuals will need between six and eight treatments. After that, bi-annual maintenance treatments can ensure skin stays smooth and free of unwanted hair.
Does it hurt?
Pain is subjective, but the general consensus is that the sensation is mild and manageable – (like a quick flick or snap). The treated area and/or skin with lower thickness (i.e. upper lip and bikini line) are going to be more sensitive, while back, legs, and arms will be more comfortable.
If you’re concerned with discomfort, numbing creams can be applied. However, in the grand scheme of things, most people will find laser hair removal to be much less painful than waxing.
Is it safe?
Yes, laser hair removal is FDA approved and considered safe when completed by a trained individual. Side effects of laser hair removal are typically mild, and temporary such as:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Mild irritation
Rare complications (such as burns, hyperpigmentation) are generally related to bad operators or improper use and not using a reputable clinic, with licensed technicians.
You may be a perfect candidate if you:
- Are seeking hair removal with lower maintenance
- Have issues with ingrown hairs
- Have sensitive skin
- Desire smoother skin in all seasons
If you are not sure if you are a good candidate, an office consultation will eliminate any questions on the best course of action for your unique skin and hair type.
Final Thoughts: Your Transformation from Fuzz to Fabulous.
Laser hair removal shouldn’t only be considered as cosmetic treatment; It can also allow you to save those razor minutes, earn some confidence, and contribute to an overall investment in self-care. No more shaving last minute before a beach day. No judging the razor burn this summer as you rock those legs. No more embarrassed pulling at those stubborn ingrown hairs. Just smooth radiant skin you will love to show off to the world.
So, if you are ready to say goodbye to fuzz and hello to fabulous, then laser hair removal in Totonto may just be the glow up you have been waiting for.