Salon Laser Hair Removal System - Frequently Asked Questions.

How should I prepare my skin for Laser Hair Removal?
Laser Hair Removal does not require any special skin preparations, although you should always ensure your skin is clean. Laser Hair Removal is most effective on pale skin, so we recommend that you avoid sunbathing, sun beds and fake tanning if possible.

How should I prepare the hairs for Laser Hair Removal?
The best results are on hairs which are only 1 - 3 mm long, we recommend that you trim the hairs before treatment. Alternatively you can shave before treatment as long as during treatment the hair is visible enough for the laser to be aimed at the root.

How will my skin appear after the treatment? Will I experience any side effects?
Generally no perceptible changes will be apparent. Rarely, mild redness, slight reddening and some swelling may occur. This will fade over 24 hours. Hairs will generally be shed over the days following treatment.

After laser hair removal, is there anything to avoid?
Sun exposure or deep tanning should be avoided for at least a week. If the skin is exposed use a sunscreen. Avoid using abrasive cleansers or skin peeling treatments. Avoid swimming in chlorinated water or using a hot tub for 48 hours. The chlorine in the water can result in itchiness.

Is there any aftercare routine I should follow?
A slight redness after treatment may occur - this is quite normal and will disappear within 24 hours. If you wish you can apply an unperfumed soothing lotion, an ice pack or wet towel to cool the treated area. Take care to keep the treated area particularly clean for 3 days. Ideally use an anti-bacterial soap twice daily. When treating the underarms avoid using antiperspirant deodourant for 2 -3 days. Use an anti-bacterial soap twice daily.

How often can I repeat laser hair removal treatment?
As long as the hair follicle or surrounding skin is not red, sore or inflamed, treatment can be repeated after 24 hours. Most people wait 3 - 4 weeks between treatments to see which hairs have been shed and to identify new regrowth. The timing for follow on treatments is not critical. Choose a time which is convenient for you. Avoid excessive treatment on the same region at one time, this may cause reddening and swelling. We suggest treating each hair only once in each session.

How many treatments will I need?
Laser hair reduction is generally considered to be effective and permanent after 6 treatments. This varies from person to person and depends on the area you are treating, hair density, your hair's growth cycle and colour. Dark hair on fair skin responds to laser therapy best, but both dark and fair hair may take several treatments for long-term results. Some individuals may require more, and some fewer treatments to achieve satisfaction. Initially with each treatment you will notice a gradual thinning/reduction of hair growth in the treated area. Women who suffer excessive hair growth due to male type hormones are likely to require long term maintenance.

What areas can I treat?
Most body hair can be removed using laser hair removal, the most common areas are the face, underarms, legs, chest, back and bikini line. We do NOT recommend using the laser hair remover on eyebrows.

Can I use laser hair removal on sensitive skin?
Yes, the laser reacts with the hair, so the surrounding skin will not be affected.

What does it feel like?
Most people don't feel anything, although a mild 'pin prick' sensation, lasting less than a second, may be felt.

Can I use other hair removal methods between treatments?
Because the laser hair remover needs a hair to be present in the follicle, hair removal methods which pluck the hair, such as waxing, epilators and tweezing are NOT suitable for use between treatments. Bleaching hairs is also NOT suitable as it removes the pigment and renders the laser ineffective. Shaving, micro-dermabrasion discs and cream depilatories are ideal for use between treatments.

Which part of the hair should I aim at?
It is essential to aim at the root of the hair, this is much easier if the hairs are only 1 - 2 mm long. Most hairs grow at an angle, so the root is not necessarily in line with the base of the hair above the skin, this is quite difficult to see if the hairs are too long. Initially, you may find there is a knack to targeting the hair root/follicle and you may wish to ask a friend to help with the treatment of hard to reach areas such as underarm hair.

Is it safe to use the laser hair during pregnancy?
It is common knowledge that women suffer an excess of hair growth during pregnancy, most of which will fall out once the baby has arrived. Whilst it is safe to use the laser hair during pregnancy, we recommend that you avoid the breast and abdomen areas during the last trimester.