7 Things to Know Before Getting Laser Hair Removal
If you’ve been keeping up with me on YouTube and Instagram, you might know that I’ve been doing laser hair removal treatments on my underarms and bikini line. It’s been a great experience at the Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center here in Las Vegas (they also have locations nationwide) and I’ve been seeing a major difference. I just finished up my sixth treatment, which you watch in the video above!
If you’re thinking about doing laser hair removal for yourself, I encourage you to watch my other videos about my process starting at the beginning. I wanted to share a few things that I learned throughout my treatments that are helpful to know before you decide to take the plunge.
1. Take Advantage of a Free Consultation
Before you get too excited about starting your laser hair removal, and definitely before you purchase your treatment package, take advantage of the free consultation that’s available at most med-spas. Laser treatment works best on lighter skin with dark and coarse hair, so it’s always a good idea to go in-person to find out if you’re a candidate and what to expect. Plus, different medical conditions can disqualify you or just make the treatment a little more difficult such as if you have tattoos, if you’re pregnant, or if you have skin conditions.
2. The Best Time for Laser Hair Removal is Fall & Winter
It’s strongly recommended to keep all treated areas out of the sun through the duration of your treatment. That can be upwards of 36 weeks if you’re doing a six-treatment plan with appointments every six weeks. If you’re getting laser on areas that are easily exposed to the sun such as arms, legs, or face, it’s best to do the treatment during seasons with less sun unless you’re willing to cover up all the time. This is one of the main reasons I decided not to do my legs, because I started right before summer hit and knew I wouldn’t be able to commit to pants in the Vegas heat. But even with my underarms and bikini line, I had to be sure to be diligent with SPF when I was in bathing suits on vacation. Sun exposure after laser treatment can cause permanent discoloration of the skin and irritation.
3. Exfoliate Regularly to See Results Faster
Exfoliating the area you’ve had laser on about three days after your treatment can help you see results faster. It will help loosen up any trapped hairs that are ready to fall out, and also help prevent ingrown hairs. Just be sure not to exfoliate right before or directly after a treatment, as it can intensify any irritation.
4. Use a New Razor Before Your Appointments
You want to get the closest shave possible before having a laser treatment. The less hair, the less pain and burning. If you have any stubble, the laser will literally burn it off and you’ll feel a stronger zap (along with a burning hair smell!). I figured out it was easiest to use a new razor head and shave right before I left my house for my appointment to get the best results.
5. You’ll See Less Hair Every Time You Shave
Between treatments, continue shaving in the area. You’ll see less and less hair every time you shave, and you’ll also start noticing a big difference in the texture of the hair. It should become finer, and grow out more slowly. Shaving regularly will help you gauge your results so you can communicate with your laser technician about what’s working or what’s not.
6. It Might Take More than 6 Treatments
Many med-spas sell laser hair removal in bundles of 6 treatments, but it can take 6-10 depending on several factors. After my sixth treatment, I was pretty much completely hairless under my arms but needed a little more zapping in my bikini line to complete the process. If you buy a package ahead of time, be sure you’re aware of any extra costs if you have to add on a few more sessions.
Overall, I’ve had a really great experience doing laser hair removal at Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center— the treatments have been so quick but have made a huge difference. Above, you can see a photo of my underarms two weeks after my last treatment without shaving. Smooth and hair-free! Even though we’re officially in sweater weather, I love not worrying about shaving my underarms for tanks at the gym, and we’re on our way to Jamaica for vacation next week where I’ll be able to flaunt smooth skin as well.
Have you ever wanted to try laser hair removal?
If we stop laser treatment In between the treatment does have an side effects of hair will grow heavily or it will be how it was before doing laser treatment ????
I don’t think it will reverse… you’ll have to talk to your esthetician about that!
I found it very interesting to know that when you do laser hair removal you are not allowed to expose your skin to the sun, and need constant exfoliation. I have been thinking about getting hair laser removal for while now, and I want to look for advice on the things I should know about it. I will definitely make sure that once I start my laser treatment I exfoliate every once in a while to help the process.
Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that can pay dividends in the long run. It is a self-care treatment. With laser hair removal, you can keep your body hair ungroomed and natural. There are certain things that you need to know before getting laser hair removal. Knowing the things well will keep you prepared for the treatment. If you want to shave, then shave about 24 hours before the appointment. Avoid waxing in-between the sessions. Remember one thing- laser hair removal is a customized treatment. So, there is a possibility of getting non-identical results.
Thank you for stating that it’s strongly recommended to keep all treated areas out of the sun through the duration of your treatment. My sister absolutely hates shaving, and it’s gotten hard for her ever since she got really sick and is thinking of getting laser hair removal. I will definitely pass along all of your great tips and information to my sister so can be preapred.
My wife wants to get laser hair removal. I like how you mention the less hair, the less pain, and burning, so you should shave with a new razor before the treatment. Thank you for the advice. I’ll share this information with my wife so the laser removal won’t hurt.
Thanks for stopping by, Jay!