Considering laser hair removal? Bush Whacked Laser offers their expert advice on who makes a good candidate for the treatment and what to consider ahead of scheduling your appointment.
Describe the laser hair removal treatments you offer, and what are the differences?We use the Alma System of laser hair removal which include the Soprano XL & the Soprano ICE. Both machines are excellent an produce the same results. The difference in the two machines is that the crystal head on the ICE is double the size of the XL, therefore resulting in a faster treatment for larger areas being treated such as legs or full back.
What should one consider before receiving laser hair removal?You should always take into consideration what is causing the hair growth. Is it just normal hair growth or is it being caused by a hormone imbalance? Areas such as the face that are experiencing excessive hair growth on a woman, are usually caused by things like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or a thyroid imbalance. Genetics can also play a part in this as well. If these are things you struggle with, laser hair removal can help to slow down the growth and make the hair lighter. With hormonal issues, however, the results will vary depending on the individual. Typically, the results are not as effective as someone without hormonal issues. This may result in more treatments. Pregnant woman and woman who are breastfeeding should refrain from getting laser as the effects of laser hair removal treatments have not been tested in this population. In addition, both pregnant and nursing women’s hormones have not yet regulated to normal levels which will result in outcomes similar to a client with hormone issues. Men are also a big population of our clients that receive laser hair removal but the above factors are less prominent in them.
Other things to consider before deciding to start the laser process, one should refrain from waxing, tweezing, threading or any other methods that remove the hair from the root for 4 weeks prior to treatment. Clients should refrain from artificial tanning or any sun exposure to the area to be treated for approximately 2 weeks before and after treatment. If there is a tattoo on the area to be treated, laser hair removal can only be performed around the tattoo. We cannot treat over top of the tattoo, this will result in damage to the tattoo and a possible burn.
Who is a good candidate for laser hair removal?Our lasers are very safe and gentle. They are made to treat all skin types. With our lasers we can treat almost anyone and have good results. Any person with dark hair is a good candidate for laser hair removal. The lighter the person’s skin type, the higher of a setting we can use, but all skin types are treatable providing the hair is dark. Blonde, red, white and grey hairs are untreatable, as is any “peach fuzz” types of hairs.
What is the best approach to after-treatment care?We explain the post-treatment process to all of our clients, and as long as you follow our instructions post-care is easy. Keep the skin hydrated with aloe gel. For the first 24 hours, no hot water on the area (hot showers, hot tubs, steam rooms, etc) and no strenuous activity (working out). Avoid the sun for at least 24 hours, if not more. Try to keep the area calm and cool. No makeup, deodorant, and don’t scrub the area. Apply a cold compress if needed.
What are the long-term benefits, both aesthetically and financially, to receiving this treatment?Laser hair removal reduces hair growth up to 80%, leaving the skin smoother, softer and less irritated than with waxing or shaving. Any “5 o’clockshadow” is gone because there are not as many hairs left under the surface. Laser hair removal is also a great solution to ingrown hairs. Investing in laser treatments would save you the monthly costs of waxing or buying of razor which over a lifetime would add up significantly. It would also save you in time spent grooming yourself. Waxing or shaving would have to be done on a weekly or monthly basis for as long as you would like to have hair free areas. Laser hair removal sessions are every 4-6 weeks for an average of 6-8 treatments or until you achieve the level of hair reduction you desire. After that, it would be a touch up treatment every year or two.
To learn more, visit Bush Whacked Laser.
