Get Ready to go Bare This Summer

Let’s talk about LASER HAIR REMOVAL.  We all have questions about it. Does it hurt? How does it work? Is it for me? How much does it cost? What are the dos and don’ts? Here is a little guide to make sure you are fully prepared for your first treatment.

How does laser hair removal work?

Cutera is a multi functioning, high-powered ND:YAG laser that works wonders on zapping away unwanted hair. The laser light is attracted to pigmentation and is absorbed by the melanin in hair. The heat then damages the follicle that produces hair. Once the follicle is gone it does not return, resulting in permanent hair removal. 

Who is it for?

Laser hair removal is for EVERYONE! We can treat any area on the body and it is safe for all skin types. The number of treatments needed will be dependent on the area, hair type, and colour. We recommend between 6-10 treatments, done every 4-6 weeks. Staying on a 4–6-week treatment plan is crucial for optimal results. Most people should see a reduction after each treatment. Hairs should grow back slower, and finer, while ingrown hairs slowly disappear. Shedding usually occurs a couple days after the treatment.

Is it painful?

Laser hair removal can be a little spicy at times, but its typically more comfortable than other forms of hair removal, especially waxing. The technician only needs to go over the area once, resulting in a relatively fast and tolerable treatment. The Cutera laser also has a wonderful cooling tip to aid in any discomfort. For all the ladies, we do recommend scheduling your laser appointments on opposite days of your menstrual cycle, to avoid any extra sensitivity.  

How much does it cost?

Pricing will depend on the area. Single treatments range from $60.00 to $350.00. Most people will need multiple treatments, so we offer discounted prices when you purchase a package. Laser hair removal is PERMANENT so its well worth the investment. 

 Before your treatment

·       Avoid the sun. You should avoid the sun for 2 weeks before your treatment. This includes tanning beds and self-tanners. Exposure to sunlight can cause your skin to become more sensitive, resulting in an adverse reaction such as burns or hyperpigmentation. Safety is our priority, so if you have tanned skin the technician may have to turn down the settings resulting in an ineffective treatment. ALWAYS WEAR SPF 30. 

·       Shave the area. The better the shave, the better the treatment. We recommend shaving 24-48 hours before your appointment. We want the laser to target the pigment located in the follicle not the surface.

 ·       Do not pluck or wax. Lucky you, you get to stop waxing! By waxing or plucking you are removing the hair root all together, defeating the purpose of laser hair removal. We recommend waiting 4-6 weeks after waxing or plucking for optimal results.

·       Do not use aggressive exfoliants or acids on area. This includes hydroxy acid, salicylic acid, retinols and benzoyl peroxide. We recommend not using any of these for a week before your treatment. These products cause photosensitivity and may cause adverse reaction to the laser.  

 ·       Hold off on Botox, filler, HydraFacials, and chemical peels. We do not recommend any of these treatment 14 days before your laser treatment. The heat from the laser can potentially compromise your cosmetic injections. Aggressive facial treatments cause skin sensitivities, leading to adverse reactions to the laser. 

 ·      Medication. Make sure you always disclose any medications you are taking with your technician. We recommend coming in for a complimentary consultation to discuss everything before your first appointment. 

After your treatment

·       Avoid excess heat. Avoid hot showers, saunas, and excessive exercise. We recommend avoiding these for 24-48 hours post treatment. Adding more heat to the skin may increase the chance of unwanted pigmentation, scarring, and texture change. 

 ·       Avoid the sun. Avoid the sun for at least 7 days after your treatment, do not intentionally tan the area. Make sure to wear SPF 30+ daily outdoors and indoors. Sun exposure may cause an unwanted reaction. 

·       Do not exfoliate the area. Avoid using any aggressive exfoliants for 48 hours. These include hydroxy acid, salicylic acid, retinols and benzoyl peroxide. Be gentle with your skin post laser treatments. 

·       Avoid deodorants and creams on area. Skip the body wash, perfumes, and lotions for 24-48 hours as they may cause irritation.  

Fall and winter are the perfect seasons for laser hair removal, lets start prepping for summer now.