1. Laser hair removal is almost painless
Although many people describe laser hair removal as painless, some clients may experience some discomfort; many note that the sensation of laser hair removal is similar to being flicked by an elastic band.
The laser combines heat and ice technology to create a comfortable experience. The ice technology is used to cool as the laser heats and penetrates the hair shafts; you will experience a warming sensation.
2. It can be used on all skin types
Laser hair removal uses light to target the pigments of the hair to reach the follicle. Any further hair growth will be stopped if there is severe damage to the latter. Because of the tightening between hair and skin, the laser can target pigment in the hair. Laser hair removal is best for those with fair skin and dark hair. A patient with dark hair and skin would not have this contrast. People of colour were advised not to have laser hair removal for many years.
This lack of contrast meant that the laser could target melanin in the skin. Darker skin was more susceptible to scarring and burning. Modern technology has changed everything. Nd:YAG lasers have a safe and effective wavelength on dark skin. These wavelengths do not get absorbed by melanin and instead, go directly into the dermis. Canova’s laser hair removal is effective for all skin tones and complexions.
3. Light hair may not be able to benefit from the treatment.
Laser hair removal is safe for all skin types. The laser emits a beam that targets the hair’s pigment; for the laser to work, there must be pigment in the hair; any hair that lacks melanin or pigment will not absorb heat, meaning that the laser can not successfully inhibit hair growth.
Pigments are less prominent in blonde and grey hair and absent in white hair. Patients with fair hair may not be capable of treating areas with very light hairs, but they can still have laser hair removal performed on areas that tend to be darker. This is true for the underarms and the bikini area.
4. Some medications must be stopped
Laser hair removal can be painless, but it can still be painful depending on the client’s pain tolerance. Some medications can increase photosensitivity, while others are more topical. Photosensitive drugs are chemical compounds that have photo-reactive ingredients. These chemicals cause them to react with UV light.
Photosensitive drugs include antibiotics. Before you can go for a session, wait between ten and fifteen days after your last day of treatment. Photosensitive medications include antidepressants and retinoids and allergy medication and cholesterol medication. If you are on any medication, please inform our consultant and speak to your GP before going ahead with your laser hair removal.
5. Patience is the key
Laser hair removal requires commitment. Each session should be scheduled approximately every four to six weeks. This is due to the unique hair growth cycle that is unique to each person as well as every hair on their bodies. Laser hair removal is only possible in the anagen stage of hair growth. This is the time when hair connects to the follicle. Only 20% of your hair can reach this stage at any given time. The laser can only target 20% of your hair each session.
The hair won’t magically fall out or disappear after the first treatment. The hair will start to fall out slowly over two to three weeks. Avoid shaving for at least ten days following each treatment to let the hair fall out naturally. As you go along with your treatment, you will notice areas where laser hair removal has begun to work.