FAQ - Laser Hair Removal

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it hurt?
No, for most people it’s a mild snapping sensation, similar to having a rubber band flicked against your skin. Some people are more sensitive than others and the technician will regularly check that you are comfortable during treatment. You can help to reduce sensitivity by avoiding caffeine on the day of your appointment and making sure you have had something to eat and drink

How many sessions will it take?
Most people will need 8-12 sessions to achieve a good result. Some will need more, especially if you have PCOS, or are transgender. Facial hair, as it reacts more to hormonal changes in the body, will often need more sessions.

How often should I come for treatment?
For most areas, sessions take place 4-6 weeks apart. Your technician will advise you on how far apart your sessions should be based on your hair regrowth. For the best results, you should keep as closely as possible to the advised times for retreatment.

Can I shave or wax between treatments?
You can shave and are asked to shave the treatment area before each appointment. Waxing or tweezing is not advised.

Will it totally remove all the hairs?
Laser hair removal works best on dark hair – if the hairs you want to treat are blonde, red, grey, or very fine, this will not be the most effective treatment for you. Most clients will achieve anywhere from 75% to 95% reduction. Results cannot be guaranteed, but your technician can advise you as to your likely result.

Do the hairs grow back thicker/darker?
No, laser hair removal will not make your hair regrowth thicker or darker.

Will the hairs ever grow back?
This depends on a number of factors, ie, the area being treated, hormonal activity, whether you have kept to your treatment protocols, and whether you completed your course of treatment. Many clients will come back for a “touch-up” appointment annually or biannually.

I have very light/very dark skin – will laser hair removal work for me?
People with very light skin are usually good candidates for laser hair removal, especially if they have darker hair. People with very dark skin tones require extra caution when performing laser hair removal. This is because the darker pigment in their skin is more susceptible to the laser wavelength used to treat hair follicles. Similarly, if you have a deep tan you might require extra caution. Come in for a free consultation with one of our highly experienced laser hair removal technicians to determine whether laser hair removal is safe for you.

How is laser hair removal different from electrolysis?
Both laser hair removal and electrolysis are effective at reducing unwanted hair. However, laser hair removal is much more efficient for large areas (such as legs, chest, and back) because it treats many hairs at a time. Electrolysis, on the other hand, only treats one hair at a time and is therefore appropriate for small areas (although it is more effective on light coloured hair). This difference also makes electrolysis very expensive for larger body areas.

Are there any side effects?
Some clients may experience redness, slight swelling and possible soreness of the treated area. These side effects can be treated easily with icepacks and over-the-counter pain relief, and your technician will advise you of proper aftercare procedures.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding laser hair removal not answered here, please contact us for more information or to arrange a complimentary consultation.