The Cosmetic Clinic 1. Understand how it works.
While we’d love to claim it’s magic, the reality is laser hair removal is science! Simply put, it works like this: With lighter skin types, a cosmetic medical-grade laser transmits a concentrated beam of light directly into the pigment of your hair follicles. With darker skins, the laser is attracted to the blood supply to the hair follicle. The laser then destroys and stunts the hair growth with both modalities. Laser hair removal is considered a cosmetic procedure and therefore is governed by strict regulations. Before booking your treatment, always ask if the technicians are qualified.
2. Have realistic expectations
It takes more than one session to see phenomenal results. Once you complete your treatment plan, you should expect long-term hair reduction! It is also important to keep in mind that no laser clinic can claim 100 per cent hair removal, as some hair will always strive to grow back. Re-growth can be affected by hormones and other biological factors which can vary from person to person. Our obligation free consultation will help determine your long-term result.
3. Be honest at your consultation.
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic treatment and as such you need to feel that you’re in safe hands (FYI, our hands are exceptionally safe). Our qualified laser technicians use only medical-grade equipment, and before you start the treatment you’ll receive a complimentary consultation with one of our friendly technicians to assess your skin and hair type. This is when you’ll need to disclose any previous treatments or medication that you’ve been taking. Things like a recent facial or Roaccutane will have an impact on the suitability of laser hair removal for you.
4. Avoid sun exposure before your appointment.
We cannot treat you if you have had sun exposure within two weeks of your laser hair removal treatment as laser will sizzle any pigment on your skin. This means that if you are sunburned, or even just tanned, you may need to reschedule your appointment. If you’re a bit of a beach babe, you may wish to start your treatments during the winter months to avoid any inconvenience.
5. A fake tan’s a safe tan – unless you’re getting laser hair removal!
As with a real tan, we can’t treat you if you have a fake tan either. So, it’s time to embrace your inner Lorde and rock the pale look on the day of your appointment.
6. Shave, don’t wax!
The root of the hair must be present in the follicle for the laser to identify it, so avoid waxing, epilating, use of depilatory creams or anything that might disturb the hair follicle. Instead, shave the treatment area 12-14 hours before your appointment. A clean shave with a sharp razor is must, we don’t want the laser targeting longer hairs that sit above the skin, as this runs the risk of causing burns.
7. Skip the moisturiser.
When it comes to the day of your treatment you need to make sure you are going au natural on your body. Make sure your skin is clean and completely product free, don’t even moisturise or apply deodorant. This goes for 24 hours after your appointment, too (except for recommended products)!
8. Avoid exercise & hot showers.
Exercising and hot showers both increase your body temperature, causing your body to sweat and creating a potential breeding ground for bacteria. This could lead to infection or ingrown hairs, so we recommend waiting at least 24 hours after a laser hair removal treatment before attempting any activity that may increase your body temperature and upset the hair follicles.
9. Use the recommended products.
Treated areas may appear “sunburnt” after treatment; an active skin care product, such as Skinstitut Laser Aid and a cold compress will ease discomfort and swelling. Avoid applying makeup to the area in the unlikely event of blistering and stay out of the sun, using Institut Age Defence SPF 50+ on the treated area to prevent discoloration or sunburn. Remember your skin will be sensitive to the sun for 48 hours after treatment.
10. Be consistent!
For best results, make sure you attend your appointments religiously every four weeks (or at intervals advised by your technician). The timing of your treatments dramatically influences the outcome due to hair growth patterns, thus we suggest you book a course of laser hair removal treatments rather than sporadic appointments.
Now that you have a basic understanding of how laser works, and what to do before and after treatment, you are ready to go forth and book your complimentary consultation at The Cosmetic Clinic. Hoorah!