FAQ – laser hair removal
Laser hair removal permanently reduces hair growth via the delivery of heat to the hair follicle. Laser provides an effective and convenient alternative to traditional hair removal methods with the added benefit of improving the skin.
Laser hair removal utilises an intense beam of light to selectively target the hair follicle. The light is converted to heat when absorbed by the melanin in the hair, providing thermal damage to the hair follicle, permanently reducing hair growth.
Laser hair removal is recognised as a routine and effective treatment for hair removal. Laser provides an ideal solution for those with dark, fast growing, coarse hair or for those suffering from ingrown hair. Laser hair removal is suitable for both males and females, and may be applied to most areas of the face and body.
Laser and light-based treatments have been confidently used for many years for a variety of medical and cosmetic procedures.
Clients may experience mild discomfort during their initial laser hair removal treatments. Epidermal cooling is provided to ensure safe, effective treatment and to maximise client comfort. If required, topical anesthetic may be used in delicate areas. The skin may be slightly red post treatment, which may persist for a few minutes to a few hours. No downtime is required for this treatment.
- Permanent reduction in hair growth and hair follicles
- Smoother and clearer skin
- Reduced PIH (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation), skin inflammation, and ingrown hair
- Minimal growth required prior to treatment
- Long lasting results, low maintenance, convenient
Anyone who has dark hair and wants to reduce their hair growth is a possible candidate for laser hair removal. Laser is most effective on dark thick hair and on light to medium skin types. All age groups can be treated for laser hair removal, however older age groups will typically experience faster, longer lasting results.
Not everyone is suitable for laser hair removal. Certain factors such as medications, skin type, hair colour, and sun exposure may influence whether or not an individual is suitable for laser treatment. Laser is not effective on white, grey or blonde hair.
The intervals at which laser hair removal treatments are performed make a substantial difference in the effectiveness and longevity of the results. The initial 6 to 8 treatments will be scheduled at defined intervals between 4 to 8 weeks to maximise results and capture the majority of actively growing hair.
- Remove long hair (shave or trim)
- Remove make-up, deodorants, perfumes, moisturisers and sunscreens
- Inform clinician of any medical conditions, medications, and sun exposure
- Wax, pluck, thread, epilate or bleach hair
- Expose treatment area to sunlight or solariums
- Use spray tans or daily tanning lotions in treatment area
- Exercise or increase skin temperature
- Take photosensitive medications i.e. antibiotics, antidepressants, acne treatments
- Use retinol, glycolic or alpha hydroxy acids, chemical peels or microdermabrasion in treatment area