If you are considering laser hair removal for the first time, it is natural to have a few questions about what the process actually involves. Here is what you can expect when you come in for your first session.
Before Your Appointment
We recommend avoiding sun exposure, waxing, and plucking for several weeks before treatment, since the laser targets hair at the root and needs pigment in the hair follicle to work effectively. Shaving the treatment area a day or two before your visit is usually recommended.
During the Treatment
Your provider will cleanse the area and may apply a cooling gel before using the laser device. Most patients describe the sensation as a quick, warm snapping feeling. Sessions can range from a few minutes for small areas to around an hour for larger areas like the legs or back.
Aftercare
Mild redness or slight swelling around the hair follicles is normal for the first day or two. We recommend gentle skincare and daily sunscreen for the treated area in the following weeks.
Most people need a series of 6 to 8 sessions spaced several weeks apart to achieve long-lasting results, since hair grows in cycles and the laser is most effective on hair in its active growth phase.
