About a year ago, I bought a full body package at a renowned skin clinic for laser hair removal. And while I jumped into it (there was a discount, can you blame me?), you shouldn't. There are many things I was totally surprised by. And while none of them made me regret my decision, there is no harm is being well informed. Here are a few things you should be clear on before getting laser hair removal done:
1. It's not a one-time thing
If you thought you were going to go in, and they were going to permanently laser off your hair the same day and you'll be done, you're very wrong. It can take anything from 6-8 sessions for each body part, depending on your hair growth. It's a long process and can go on for about a year, more if you're getting your full body done. It doesn't work like magic - you have to make appointments, show up for the consistently and then you'll see some effect.
2. Your hair growth won't completely stop
Laser hair removal works differently from person to person, and body part to body part. While you might notice that the hair growth has completely disappeared from your legs and arms, you might still get very fine growth on your underarms, face and bikini area. Fortunately the hair will barely be noticeable so it actually still end up being worth the effort. But maintenance is necessary - top up sessions could be needed once in a while.
3. It's not painless
Whoever said laser hair removal is a painless procedure was lying. The laser is burning your hair follicles - of course there will be pain. For the areas with harder growth, they might apply a numbing cream first. But even with that, you most probably will feel some pain. Do take a trial session before buying a package if you think you have a lower threshold for pain. Also, some body parts will be almost pain free, like certain areas of your arms, thighs and stomach. If your skin is extremely dry, you might want to regularly moisturise for a week or two before going for an appointment (don't moisturise on the day).
4. You can't wax between sessions
If you thought that you'll will alternating between waxing and laser hair removal and have the same effects, I'm sorry to burst your bubble. That's not how it works. You shouldn't pluck or wax between sessions as it disrupts the root of the hair follicle. Shaving is your safest bet - and even that you should keep to a bare minimum. Most centres will shave you before your laser session but it's good for them to know where all you still have growth and how coarse it is, so don't shave yourself unless you're asked to.
5. There are a ton of precautions
You can't shower the same day, unlike with waxing. You can't use soap when you shower the next day. You can't go swimming for at least day or two. Your skin will be extremely sensitive after your session so you shouldn't even spend too long in direct sunlight. The laser centre will give you a sunscreen recommendation - you should use it generously for 3-4 days after each session, even if it's cloudy. If you're getting your bikini area lasered, you'll also have to refrain from having sex for a whole day. The precautions aren't limited to these, so you must ask your centre for more information.
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