The procedure takes place in a laser treatment office. You will wear special glasses to protect your eyes. The laser is applied to the area being treated using a small, handheld applicator. Coolant sprays briefly before each laser impulse. A laser treatment for permanent hair removal can last anywhere from several minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area being treated.
You may feel a mildly unpleasant sensation from the laser impulse. Some people say it feels like getting flicked with nettles or a rubber band. However, this sensation is largely eliminated by cooling. You can also use a skin desensitizing cream if you choose.
You should not remove hair using electrolysis, tweezers or wax for six weeks prior to your treatment. If you are prone to cold sores, we recommend taking antiviral medication before the procedure as a preventive measure. The hairs targeted for removal should be shaved using a razor, the skin should be clean and dry, and any makeup, creams and/or oils should be removed.
This procedure has only minimal risk of side effects. You may experience temporary redness and irritability after the procedure, and people with sensitive skin may also experience swelling, blisters, scabs or pigment changes in the skin – lightening or darkening. These effects last only a few days.
Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds immediately after the procedure. For the first few days after your treatment, do not use peeling or abrasive skin care products. In general, you should protect your skin before and after the procedure by wearing SPF 30 or higher sunscreen.
