Laser hair removal has been around for decades and it is still considered a “luxury treatment” the truth is, laser is so accessible to anyone who wants to remove unwanted hair. To get an idea of what laser costs, click this link.
In this guide, we will talk you through all of the elements of laser and what you can expect from your hair removal process.
How does it work?
Laser targets two main pigments in the hair and skin, red and brown. Your hair goes through different growth phases, anagen, catagen and telogen. When hair is in the anagen phase, we say that it is in the growth phase and at this time, the hair follicle is nice and plump as pictured below.
When the bulb of the hair is plump with circulation and swollen in its growth, the light of the laser is able to target it very easily. At each time, approximately 20% of your hairs are in this growth phase and so we recommend that you start with 6 sessions to eliminate hair growth.
Is IPL laser hair removal permanent?
It removes most of your hairs and softens as well as thins them out. The hair will grow back but it will be thinner, finer, and softer. If you think of how waxing injures a hair by pulling it out by the root, this is a similar process but much much faster so the results are very quick and in a year of treatments, you can mostly eliminate unwanted hair. Hair does regenerate, you may need to have maintenance sessions once or twice a year.
Does it hurt?
It’s not as sore as waxing! Some describe the feeling like a rubber band snap and others find it quite relaxing! It feels hot and in areas where the hair is thicker and darker, it will feel very hot. If you have a very low pain threshold then you should definitely take some pain killers before your session.
How often should you go?
Appointments happen at various intervals depending on the area, the face would be done every 6-8 weeks and the legs can go up to 12 weeks between sessions.
Does it work on different hair and skin tones?
IPL has a much broader light spectrum than Laser so you are able to work on different hair and skin colours for hair removal. Unfortunately it does not work on grey, white or red hair yet.
The best way to establish if IPL is for you is to test it, you can book an obilgation free patch test, ask any questions you may have and see how the treatment feels.
Hope to see you soon!