Shaving, waxing, and plucking can be tedious, and depending on how fast your hair grows, you may have to do it frequently. If you’re looking for an easy way to get rid of unwanted body hair, and a longer-lasting solution, then laser hair removal is a great option. Laser hair removal works by using a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the melanin in the hair, where it converts into heat that weakens the hair follicles. Because hair grows in cycles, multiple sessions are usually needed to target follicles during their active growth phase for the best results. Over time, you’ll likely see a reduction in hair growth, and any regrowth is usually finer and lighter.
How Do You Prepare for a Laser Hair Removal Appointment?
It’s best to avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners for 2-4 weeks for your laser hair removal appointment because sun-damaged skin increases the risk of side effects from the laser. You also need to stop plucking, waxing, or threading the treatment area for at least four weeks before your appointment because the laser needs the hair root intact to successfully target the follicle. However, you should shave the area you’re getting laser treatment on about 24 hours before the session. Shaving removes hair at the surface, helping prevent burns while leaving the follicle intact beneath the skin.
What to Expect During Laser Hair Treatment
During laser hair removal treatment, the area being treated is cleaned and may be shaved further, if needed. You and the technician will both wear protective eyewear to safeguard your eyes from the laser light. The technician uses a handheld device to deliver quick pulses of laser energy to the treatment area. You may feel a light snapping or warm sensation as the laser targets the hair follicles. Laser treatment sessions are pretty quick, depending on the size of the area being treated.
What Are the Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal offers a long-term solution for reducing unwanted hair after completing a series of treatments. Laser treatment is extremely precise, targeting hair follicles while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. Compared to shaving or waxing, laser hair removal saves time and reduces ongoing maintenance, so it's a convenient treatment for many individuals.
Laser hair removal also helps reduce ingrown hairs. Shaving and waxing causes hairs to curl back into the skin which is what causes painful, red bumps. By targeting the hair follicle, laser treatment reduces future hair growth, preventing ingrown hairs from forming.
Laser Hair Removal Aftercare
Proper laser hair removal aftercare helps your skin heal comfortably and supports the best possible long-term laser hair reduction results. Right after your session, you can apply ice packs or aloe vera to help soothe any temporary redness or discomfort. For the first 24 to 48 hours, avoid exposing the treated area to excessive heat, so skip hot showers, saunas, hot tubs, and intense workouts that cause heavy sweating. The hair follicles retain heat from the laser, so adding more heat can irritate your skin.
Wearing sun protection after laser hair removal treatment is extremely important. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day. Keep the treated area covered if you plan to spend time outdoors. Shop recommended sunblock with SPF.
About 1 to 3 weeks after laser treatment, you will notice hairs beginning to fall out. This is the shedding phase. Don’t pluck or wax these hairs, but gently exfoliate the area. Shop recommended exfoliators.
What is Laser Treatment for the Face?
Laser treatment for the face helps improve skin tone, texture, and overall appearance. Depending on the type of laser used, the treatment can also target fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, dark spots, and uneven pigmentation. The laser stimulates collagen production and encourages skin cell renewal. See our recommended laser treatments for the face.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment at NM Aesthetics in the DMV Area
If you're tired of the continuous cycle of shaving or waxing, laser hair removal is the perfect treatment for you. Our esthetician will assess your skin type, skin goals, and create a customized laser treatment plan to help you achieve long-lasting, bump-free skin. Request an appointment by filling out our online form or calling us at (571) 310-3223. We serve clients in Northern Virginia, and are conveniently located in the Ballston Exchange.
FAQs
How long should hair be for laser hair removal?
Hair should be freshly shaven and not visible.
Does laser hair treatment hurt?
Laser hair treatment isn’t usually painful, but it can feel like a quick snap or warm prickling on the skin. Discomfort varies by area and person.
Can you get laser hair removal while pregnant?
It’s not recommended to get laser hair removal while pregnant.
How many treatments of laser hair removal do you need?
Most people need about 6 to 8 laser hair removal treatments to achieve optimal results.
How long is it between laser hair removal treatments?
Treatments are typically spaced based on the area being treated to align with each hair’s growth cycle. For the face, sessions are usually 4–6 weeks apart, while areas like the underarms, back, chest, and bikini are spaced 6–8 weeks apart, and legs are typically treated around every 8 weeks due to a slower growth rate.
Is laser hair removal safe for sensitive skin?
Laser hair removal is usually safe for sensitive skin when performed by a trained provider, but it’s best to have skin consultation before getting treatment.
