Every summer, we have clients booking appointments to discuss laser hair removal treatments. They have become irritated with constantly having to shave, wax, or pluck hair from their bodies and want to feel sexy and smooth when they slip into their bikini on their next vacation.
One of the questions we repeatedly ask is, “Will laser hair removal work for me?” This blog will cover the basics of laser hair removal, who makes a good candidate for treatment, the treatment process at True Jewel, and how to ensure you see the results you hope for after treatment.
What is Laser Hair Removal?
Unlike traditional hair removal methods like shaving and waxing, which only remove hair from the surface, laser hair removal uses a laser to target the root of the hair, gradually reducing hair growth in the treatment area over time.
The procedure is done with a specialized laser that emits concentrated light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicles and converted into heat energy. This energy damages the follicles to prevent hair growth. Because the laser targets the pigment (the color) in the hair, it works best on darker hair growing from lighter skin. However, as laser hair removal technology has improved, we are seeing more success in treating a variety of different hair colors and skin tones.
Laser hair removal requires a level of commitment as it does not provide immediate results. Many people need 4 – 8 sessions before seeing the desired results. Hair grows in cycles, and the laser can only effectively target hairs during the active growth phase, meaning that you will often have to space these sessions out across a number of weeks. The results, however, are usually permanent, with hair growth significantly reduced or eliminated in the treated area for good.
Areas for Laser Hair Removal
So, where can you get laser hair removal? Here are some of the most popular areas for treatment:
- Face
- Legs
- Arms
- Underarms
- Bikini Area
- Back
- Chest
At True Jewel, we use the Morpheus8 DiolazeXL system for our laser hair removal treatments. Not only does the Morpheus8 allow for precise targeting, but it is also exceptionally effective on most skin types and hair colors. At True Jewel, you can be confident that even the most stubborn hairs will be treated effectively with the Morpheus.
When and Why Laser Hair Removal May Not Work
While we are confident that the Morpheus8 will treat most people’s hair growth effectively, laser hair removal does not always work.
Your True Jewel Practitioner will be able to assess whether you are a good candidate for laser hair removal. But here are some reasons why laser hair removal may not work as effectively as you would like:
Skin Tone and Hair Color
While the Morpheus8 DiolazeXL is generally effective on most hair colors and skin tones, laser hair removal is expected to work better on darker hair growing on lighter skin tones. This is because the laser directly targets the pigment (color) in the hair.
Hormonal Changes
Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or pregnancy can cause hormonal fluctuations that lead to increased hair growth. When hormones cause excessive hair growth, it can be trickier to manage this growth, even with laser hair removal. The laser treatments may be less effective overall or require additional maintenance treatments to maintain the results.
Recent Tanning
If you have been indulging by spending more time in the sun or even using tanning beds to get glowingly bronzed skin, you may not be a great candidate for laser hair removal until your tan has died down. Sun exposure can cause unwanted side effects from laser hair treatments, such as hyperpigmentation. Avoiding the sun for a few weeks before your treatment is best.
Skin Conditions
Some skin conditions or medications that increase light sensitivity may mean it is unadvisable to get laser hair treatment. Your True Jewel Practitioner will be able to guide you on whether laser hair removal suits you.
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
The perfect candidates for laser hair removal are adults in good health and with unwanted hair growth that they want to reduce or eliminate.
Traditionally, laser hair removal has only been recommended for individuals with darker hair and lighter skin, but with the Morpheus8 DiolazeXL, we can see positive results for most people regardless of their skin tone or hair color.
We do not recommend laser hair treatments for individuals who are:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have certain medical conditions (including a history of skin cancer or light sensitivity)
Before undergoing laser hair removal at True Jewel Cosmetic Center, your True Jewel practitioner will evaluate your suitability for treatment so you can be sure you are receiving the best treatment for you.
The Hair Removal Process at True Jewel
Here is what to expect when you come to True Jewel for your laser hair removal:
- Consultation: You will have a detailed consultation with one of our expert True Jewel Practitioners, who will assess your suitability for the treatment and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
- Preparation: Before treatment, you must avoid sun exposure and certain skincare products or ingredients that may increase skin sensitivity. You will also need to shave the area to be treated approximately 24 hours before the laser can effectively target the hair follicles.
- The Procedure: On the day of the treatment, the Morpheus8 DiolazeXL will be applied to the treatment area. It will deliver a series of short laser pulses while your True Jewel Practitioner guides it over the area. The session will typically last 10-30 minutes.
- Aftercare: After your treatment, your True Jewel Practitioner will give you some aftercare instructions. It is essential to follow these instructions as best you can to ensure you see the desired results.
- Follow-Up Sessions: Most patients require follow-up sessions to see desired results. Usually, these sessions will be spaced 6 weeks apart to allow the skin time to heal. The number of sessions required will vary for each individual.
Final Thoughts
With the Morpheus8 DiolazeXL laser hair removal treatment at True Jewel, you can slip into your bikini with confidence. Ditch the razor and banish unsightly hair growth with laser hair removal.
Book your consultation now.
Laser Hair Removal FAQs
How many laser hair removal sessions will I need?
Most people require between 4 – 8 laser hair removal sessions to see the desired results.
Is laser hair removal painful?
Laser hair removal is generally well tolerated, although some patients do experience a mild tingling sensation.
Can I get laser hair removal if I have dark skin?
The Morpheus8 DiolazeXL treatment at True Jewel is generally effective on all skin tones. Your True Jewel Practitioner can help assess whether the laser treatment is suitable for you at your consultation.
Book An Appointment
Do you live in or near Culver City, Venice, Playa Vista, or Marina Del Ray and are you ready to book your future appointment for a Laser Hair Removal treatment? Click below! Free consultations.