How does laser/IPL work?

Laser hair removal treatments work by emitting a controlled heat source via a beam or beams of light, to the hair, which is then selectively absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair, this damages the root disabling its activity and delivering long-term results. After repeated treatments the subsequent damage to the hair follicle results in permanent progressive hair reduction.

Hair follicles are at various stages of growth, mostly in the changing and resting stage (catagen and telogen). Laser and other permanent forms of hair removal will only work on growing hairs (anagen). Thus repeated and regular treatments will eventually target the new cycle of growing hairs.

How long does the treatment take?

The treatment can last from a several minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the area size, hair type and density, and whether Laser or IPL is used. You will be advised of the amount of time each session wil take at your in-depth consultation.

How many treatments will I require?

Hair grows in cycles, and its growth is influenced by many factors, such as weight, age, metabolism, medication and hormonal and psychological activity. Considering these factors, it is difficult to predict how many treatments each individual will require to achieve the best long-term result. After each treatment the hair quantity and thickness will be reduced, and eventually, the most of the hair will be reduced.

Following your in-depth consultation and patch test, your therapist will advise you of realistic expectations in terms of efficacy of treatment and number required, Most individuals will require 6+ treatments (with 4 week intervals). A minority of individuals may require more than 10+ treatments. A general average is between 6-10 treatments.

What areas and types of hair can be treated?

Most areas where there is excess hair can be treated (except adjacent to the eye, nostrils and inner ears). The most commonly treated areas are: face (upper lip, chin, cheeks and neck), the body (underarms, back, abdomen, bikini line, legs, arms and chest). Laser can treat any type of hair and any hair colour except grey or white. In some cases very blonde hair or red hair may be hard to treat because of the lack of pigment. Both men and women can be treated.

Is it painful?

The treatment process is gentle, non-invasive and requires no anaesthetic. Most individuals feel anything between a slight warmth and tingling sensation to a mild pricking (Laser) or stinging (IPL) sensation. Other factors may affect your sensitivity to the treatment (e.g. periods, stress). Properly administered laser treatment should not produce any adverse reactions, There may be some reddening of the skin (erythema) with goose-bumps, but this usually subsides within a couple of hours or so and the skin may be slightly sensitive for a day or two.

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Guarantees

Each client is unique and therefore it is impossible to predict the exact results an individual will achieve with laser hair removal, or how many sessions a given individual will require. Laser hair removal can be effective, when performed properly and the individual assessed correctly. You may not be suitable for this type of treatment - non- responders are usually those with blonde or red hair, or a medical history/condition.

You are reminded that there are no guarantees with this type of treatment and that you should discuss your expectations in detail with your therapist. If you are still unsure, you should seek medical advice before attending a consultation and patch test. Clients should additionally note: According to the National Care Standards Commission guide, “laser hair removal treatments may not be permanent” and the treatment is classified as “laser hair reduction”.

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Who should not have laser hair removal?

• Recently tanned (sun, sun bed, self-tanner) clients
• Individuals with white, or grey hair (Electrolysis is recommended)
• Those with medical or skin conditions that contraindicate this type of treatment (see medical questionnaire or ask your therapist for more information)
• Pregnant or nursing women
• Clients taking some non-prescription medications long-term (Ibuprofen, St, John's Wort, Evening Primrose Oil)

 

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What preparation is required?

You are recommended to remove the hair by shaving or trimming the area 12 – 36 hours before each treatment so that 1mm-2mm hair is visible above the skin surface in order to be treated effectively. You are advised NOT to wax, pluck, epilate, or thread in between treatments. You should also avoid all exposure to sun including sun-beds and self tanners for the duration of the course of treatments. At your consultation you will be told in more detail how to prepare for your treatment and a full list of pre and in-between care instructions will also be given.

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After care

Regular applications of soothing gel should be applied and sun block (F 30+) should be worn at all times.

For 24 hours after each hair removal treatment:
No exposure to heat: i.e. hot baths or showers (only tepid), saunas, steam rooms etc.,
No deodorant, perfumes or scented body lotions/creams etc.,

A full list of pre and in-between care instructions are given at the time of consultation

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Is it for me?

If, after considering all this information carefully, you feel that laser hair removal is the right treatment for you, please call for a consultation and free patch test or if you have any further questions.

If, however, you are still unsure, you can speak to Jude Leitão for more information on all types of hair removal, talk to other laser hair removal or beauty therapists, or people who have had the treatment. Seek information via the website. Contact the Healthcare Commission for registered therapists. Keep asking questions until you are satisfied you have all the information to make the right decision for you.