Important FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Laser Hair Removal

What is laser hair removal and how does it work?
Laser hair removal uses concentrated light to target pigment (melanin) in hair follicles. The light converts to heat, damaging the follicle to slow or stop future growth. Because hair grows in cycles, multiple sessions are needed to catch hairs in the active (anagen) phase.

Who is a good candidate?
Best results are seen with dark hair (brown/black). Lighter hair (blonde, red, gray/white) typically does not respond—electrolysis is the better option for those hairs. Most skin tones can be treated with the appropriate laser settings; a consultation determines the safest approach for your skin type.

Does it work on gray, white, or very light blond hair?
Generally no—the laser needs pigment to “see” the hair. We recommend electrolysis for gray/white/light blond hair.

How many sessions will I need?
Most areas require 6–12+ sessions, spaced 4–8+ weeks apart (face every ~4–6 weeks; body every ~6–8 weeks). Hormonal areas (chin, neck, bikini) or conditions such as PCOS may need more sessions and occasional maintenance.

What does a treatment feel like? Is it painful?
Most clients describe quick, warm “snaps” or a rubber-band sensation. Modern cooling and technique make sessions very tolerable.

What happens during my appointment?

Consultation & skin/hair assessment (and often a patch test).
Area is cleansed and must be freshly shaved (stubble is ideal; no visible hair).
You’ll wear protective goggles.
The laser is applied in pulses; integrated cooling helps comfort.
A soothing gel and SPF (if exposed) are applied afterward. Most sessions take 10–60 minutes depending on area size.

What’s the downtime?
Minimal. Expect mild redness or “perifollicular edema” (tiny bumps around follicles) for a few hours to 1–2 days. You can resume routine activities immediately, but avoid heavy heat/sweat the first 24 hours.

What results should I expect—and when?
Treated hairs shed over 1–3 weeks after each session (they’re not “pulled” during treatment). You’ll notice thinning and slower regrowth after a few visits. Best results come from consistent appointments.

How do I prepare before my session?

Shave the area 12–24 hours before (no waxing/threading/tweezing for 3–4 weeks prior).
Avoid self-tanner and significant sun exposure for 2 weeks before.
Skip active skincare (retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, benzoyl peroxide) on the area for 3–5 days prior.
Arrive with clean skin (no makeup, deodorant, lotions, oils on the area).
Tell us about any new medications or health changes.

What should I do after my session?

Keep the area cool and clean for 24 hours (no hot showers, saunas, intense workouts).
Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe.
Avoid sun exposure and use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily on exposed areas.
Do not pluck, wax, or thread between sessions; shaving is okay.
A week after treatment, gentle exfoliate for 2 weeks

What are the possible side effects?
Temporary redness, swelling, and mild tenderness are common. Less common risks include blistering, crusting, acne-like bumps, ingrown hairs, or pigment changes—especially if sun guidelines aren’t followed. Burns and scarring are rare when treated appropriately.

Are there any contraindications (reasons to wait or get clearance)?

Relative/temporary (often okay once resolved or with medical clearance):

Recent sunburn or active tan on the area
Active skin infection, open wound, cold sore in the area
Use of photosensitizing medications (e.g., some antibiotics like doxycycline)
Topical retinoids/acid exfoliants on the area (pause several days before)
Recent chemical peel, micro-needling, or laser resurfacing (wait 2–4+ weeks)
Pregnancy or breastfeeding (many providers defer elective laser)
History of keloids (treat with caution)
Epilepsy triggered by flashing lights (provider discretion/clearance)

Typically not treated until cleared or an alternative discussed:

Isotretinoin (Accutane) use within the last 6 months
Suspicious lesions or skin cancer in the area (dermatology clearance)
Active eczema/psoriasis flare in the treatment zone
Over tattoos (we avoid lasering directly on ink)
Always share your medical history and medications so we can tailor a safe plan.

Can I do laser if I have darker skin?
Yes—when appropriate technology and settings are used (e.g., Nd:YAG for higher Fitzpatrick types). A skilled provider will customize settings and prioritize safety to minimize pigment changes.

Can I have laser while on antibiotics or other meds?
Some medications increase photosensitivity (sun/laser sensitivity). Always tell us; we may postpone treatment or adjust timing/settings.

Can I tan or use self-tanner?
Avoid tanning and self-tanners for 2 weeks before and 1–2 weeks after treatment. Tanned skin increases risk of side effects and limits safe energy settings.

Why can’t I wax/thread between sessions?
Those methods remove the hair bulb the laser targets. Shaving only between visits keeps the follicle intact so treatments stay effective.

Will laser remove hair permanently?
Laser provides long-term hair reduction, many follicles are permanently disabled, and remaining hairs grow back finer and slower. Some clients need periodic maintenance, especially in hormonally influenced areas. Clients experience 70-90% hair growth reduction.

Is laser safe over moles or tattoos?
We typically avoid lasering directly over tattoos and dark moles; those areas are covered or carefully worked around.

How much time should I plan between sessions?

Face: every 4–6 weeks
Underarms/Bikini: every 6–8 weeks
Legs/Back/Arms: every 6–8 weeks
Your provider will guide your exact cadence based on growth patterns.

What if I have PCOS or hormonal hair growth?
You can still achieve great reduction, but you may need more sessions and occasional maintenance due to ongoing hormonal stimulation of follicles.

Quick Prep & Aftercare

Before: Shave 12–24h prior
No waxing/threading 3–4 wks prior
Pause active skin products 3–5 days
Avoid sun/self-tanner 2 wks •
Arrive with clean skin.
After: Cool/soothe
No heat/sweat 24h
Gentle skincare
SPF 30+ daily
Shave only between sessions
Expect shedding in 1–3 weeks.

FAQ for Electrolysis

Electrolysis is a safe and effective permanent hair removal method, but there are some relative (temporary) and absolute contraindications to consider before beginning treatment.

Relative / Temporary Contraindications

Clients may still receive electrolysis once the condition has resolved or with a physician’s approval:

Pregnancy (consultation with a doctor recommended)
Diabetes (controlled vs. uncontrolled — requires medical clearance)
Epilepsy (with physician consent)
Skin infections, open wounds, or active acne in the treatment area
Recent sunburn or tanning of the area
Recent chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or laser resurfacing (wait 2–4 weeks)
Use of topical retinoids (e.g., Retin-A) or prescription acne medications (area must be clear and healed)
Pacemakers or implanted electrical devices (case by case, with doctor’s approval)
Recent Botox, fillers, or cosmetic injections in the treatment area (wait at least 2 weeks)
Keloid scarring tendency (treated with caution)
Viral infections such as cold sores (must heal before treatment in that area)
Menstruation (not a medical contraindication, but skin may be more sensitive during this time)

Estimated Number of Treatments

Electrolysis requires multiple sessions because hair grows in cycles, and only hairs in the active growth (anagen) stage can be permanently destroyed.

General Statistics:

Treatment frequency: Once every 1–2 weeks at the beginning, gradually spacing out as regrowth decreases
Timeline: Often varies on clients- consistency with appointments is imperative for effective results
Session length: 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on area size

Key Factors That Affect Treatment Time:

Hair density & thickness: Coarse, dense hair requires more sessions than fine hair
Area treated: Upper lip may clear faster than areas like the bikini line or chin
Hormones: Hormonal imbalances (e.g., PCOS, thyroid conditions, menopause) may require ongoing maintenance
Consistency: Sticking to a regular treatment schedule significantly improves results