Laser Hair Removal: Everything You Need To Know

The most popular and affordable laser treatment at The Saint Louis Med Spa is our Laser Hair Removal service. Unwanted hair can be a persistent source of frustration, whether it’s on your legs, underarms, face, or elsewhere on your body. While there are many hair removal methods—shaving, waxing, depilatory creams—laser hair removal has emerged as a popular choice for those looking for more long-term results. Below, we’ll explore what laser hair removal is, how it works, how it compares to waxing, how long it lasts, how often it should be done, what to consider before getting the service, pre-treatment care, post-treatment care, potential side effects, and other key considerations.

 

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated beams of light (lasers) to target and destroy hair follicles. By damaging the follicles, future hair growth is either slowed significantly or stopped altogether. While not always permanent, many people experience long periods of hair-free skin and require much less maintenance than with traditional hair removal methods.

 

How Does It Work?

• Light Absorption by Melanin: The laser device emits a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. Darker hair contains more melanin, making it an effective target for the laser.
• Heat Damage to Hair Follicle: As the hair absorbs the laser’s energy, the shaft heats up, damaging the hair follicle beneath the skin. Once the follicle is compromised, it impairs or completely stops its ability to produce new hair.
• Multiple Sessions Required: Hair grows in cycles (anagen, catagen, and telogen phases). The laser is most effective during the anagen (growth) phase. Because not all hairs are in the same phase simultaneously, multiple treatment sessions are needed to target each hair in its active growth phase.

 

How Is It Different from Waxing?

Method of Removal:

• Waxing removes the hair shaft from the follicle by pulling it out at the root, but the follicle remains intact.
• Laser Hair Removal damages or destroys the follicle itself, preventing or significantly reducing future hair growth.

Longevity of Results:

• Waxing results typically last a few weeks before regrowth becomes noticeable.
• Laser Hair Removal can offer permanent hair reduction over time, allowing many months or even years of minimal or no regrowth.

Pain and Discomfort:

• Waxing can be quite painful as the hair is pulled out from the root.
• Laser Hair Removal is often described as a snapping or stinging sensation, but modern lasers with cooling devices or topical anesthetics can help minimize discomfort.

Skin Sensitivity and Irritation:

• Waxing can cause redness, irritation, or even minor tears if the skin is very delicate.
• Laser Hair Removal may cause redness or mild swelling, which typically subsides within a few hours.

 

What to Consider Before Getting Laser Hair Removal

• Skin Tone and Hair Color: People with light-to-medium skin tones and dark hair usually experience the quickest and most noticeable results. Advances in laser technology have made it more effective for darker skin tones, but it may require more sessions or specialized lasers. Very light-colored hair (blond, white, or gray) can be harder to treat because it has less melanin to absorb the laser’s energy.
• Medical Conditions and Medications: Certain medications (such as photosensitizing drugs) can make skin more sensitive to light. Hormonal imbalances (e.g., PCOS) can affect hair growth patterns. Always disclose your medical history and current medications to your laser technician.
• Budget and Time Commitment: Laser hair removal often requires multiple sessions (6–8 or more). Though it may be more expensive upfront than waxing, many find it cost-effective over time due to long-lasting results.

 

Pre-Treatment Care

• Avoid Sun Exposure: Limit sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners for at least two weeks before your session. Tanned skin can increase the risk of side effects such as burns or discoloration.
• Shave the Area: Shave the treatment area 24 hours before your appointment. This helps the laser focus on the hair follicle rather than burning surface hair, which can lead to irritation.
• Skip Other Hair Removal Methods: Avoid waxing or plucking in the weeks leading up to your appointment. These methods remove the hair follicle, which is what the laser needs to target.
• Consult Your Laser Technician: If you’re prone to discomfort, ask whether a topical numbing is appropriate. Discuss any underlying skin conditions, recent antibiotics or medications, or other concerns you may have.

How Long Does It Last, and Why?

By damaging or destroying the hair follicle, laser hair removal disrupts the regrowth cycle. Many people experience 70–90% hair reduction after completing their initial set of sessions. Although it’s often referred to as permanent, some follicles may eventually recover, or new ones can become active due to hormonal shifts, medications, or natural aging.

• Duration of Hair-Free Period: This varies from person to person, but many enjoy significantly reduced hair growth for months or even years. Any new growth is typically finer, lighter, and less noticeable.

 

How Often Should It Be Done?

• Initial Treatment Cycle: Most people need 6–8 sessions spaced approximately 4–6 weeks apart. This schedule ensures that each treatment session catches different hairs in their growth phase.
• Maintenance Sessions: After the initial round, occasional touch-up or maintenance sessions—often once or twice a year—may be needed to maintain results.
• Individual Variations: Factors like hair color, skin tone, and hormonal balance can affect how many sessions are required and how frequently you may need touch-ups.

 

Post-Treatment Care

• Protect Your Skin: Your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight for several days after treatment. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 if you plan to be outdoors. Avoid tanning beds or direct sun exposure for at least two weeks post-treatment.
• Soothe the Skin: Redness, mild swelling, or sensitivity in the treated area is common. Use a cool compress or aloe vera gel to soothe irritation. Steer clear of hot showers or rigorous workouts for at least 24–48 hours.
• Avoid Aggressive Exfoliation - Refrain from scrubs or chemical exfoliants immediately after your session. Treat the skin gently to avoid further irritation.
• No Plucking or Waxing: If hair regrowth occurs between sessions, shaving is acceptable. Plucking or waxing removes the follicle, which can interfere with future laser treatments.

 

Potential Side Effects

• Redness and Swelling: The most common and typically subside within a few hours to a day.
• Skin Irritation: Mild itching or dryness can occur but is usually temporary.
• Pigment Changes: In rare cases, skin may become lighter (hypopigmentation) or darker (hyperpigmentation). This risk is higher for darker skin tones or if aftercare instructions aren’t followed.
• Blistering or Scarring: Very rare, but more likely if the treatment is done improperly or if you neglect post-care instructions.
• Eye Injury: Protective eyewear is mandatory during facial treatments, as lasers can damage the eyes if exposed.

 

Conclusion

Laser hair removal is a highly effective method for reducing unwanted hair and can offer long-lasting results that surpass traditional methods like waxing or shaving. Its benefits include significant hair reduction, smoother skin, and less frequent maintenance once the initial treatment series is complete. However, it’s crucial to understand pre- and post-treatment care, and be aware of the potential risks. With proper planning and adherence to aftercare guidelines, laser hair removal can be a transformative step toward effortlessly smooth skin.  If you are ready to start your set of hair removal sessions in the Saint Louis, Missouri area? Reach out for a consultation with one of The Saint Louis Med Spa’s laser technicians to see if you are a good candidate for laser hair removal.

 

Visit us at www.TheSaintLouisMedSpa.com 

Call us at (557) 220-9575 or 1 (833) STL ESTY

Come by at 525 S. Hanley, Saint Louis, MO 63105