The Ultimate Laser Hair Removal Guide

While laser hair removal has been around since the 1990s, it's more popular than ever. And for a good reason: it's an effective and safe way to get rid of facial and body hair that requires virtually no upkeep. And while we see more women embracing their body hair, the laser hair removal market continues to rise.

Ahead of your first appointment, keep in mind that not all lasers are created equal. There are three different kinds: diode, alexandrite, and Nd: YAG. "The diode laser is the Mercedes Benz of all lasers," says Eternally Young Clinic owner Rania Bazzi. "It has a pneumatic head on the device which sucks up the skin and the hair follicle to target the hair more efficiently." At Eternally you Clinic, we use the LightSheer Duet Diode laser by Lumenis. It is very fast, very safe, very effective, and much less painful than the other hair lasers. It uses a suction device to decrease pain.

Now, the answers to some frequently asked questions:

What are some of the most popular areas for laser hair removal?

"The bikini area, legs, and underarms are by far the most popular areas for women," says Rania Bazzi. These areas continue to be highly requested services every spring.

Does it hurt?

Some people say that laser hair removal can be uncomfortable, but it is tolerable. Many people have compared the feeling too static electricity or light rubber band snaps, but this varies from person to person. People with a low pain tolerance should ask for a numbing cream to be applied 20 minutes before treatment.

What should I do before treatment?

One should avoid direct sunlight or any self-tanners. Antibiotics are another thing one should avoid taking at least five days before their appointment. And while most people are great candidates for laser hair removal, pregnant women and those on Accutane or any medications that warn against sun exposure should not receive treatment. It is recommended to come is with freshly shaven legs so that the laser can directly target the root while achieving better results.

And after treatment?

Eternally Young Clinic suggests patients treat the area like sunburn (skip hot baths and showers and apply aloe). Avoid all sunlight so that post-inflammatory pigmentation does not occur and cut using retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids. In between sessions, we advise against waxing or tweezing in favor of shaving.

How long will it take to see results?

It truly depends on the client. Most of our patients see results in as little as two sessions. A complete course is usually anywhere from four to 12 sessions to see permanent results