Over the years, humans have used several hair removal methods to achieve silky smooth skin. We’ve tried anything from using flint, pumice stones, shell tweezers, and copper razors. While some have been effective and most have been tedious, none delivered lasting results.
Luckily, everything changed when laser hair removal entered the market. Though lasers were first invented by Theodore Harold Maiman in 1960, their application in hair removal began in the 1990s. However, it was not until 1997 that the Food Drug and Administration (FDA) approved laser hair removal for public use.
Ever since, its popularity has risen drastically. After all, data suggests that 97% of women who have visited a medical spa for the procedure are satisfied with the results. Laser hair removal only takes 15-30 minutes for small areas when you visit a quality medi spa Knoxville TN trusts. If you want a simple way to get rid of hair for the long-term, laser hair removal at your local medical spa might be the perfect answer.
Are you interested in laser hair removal? Here is how you should prepare for your first visit:
Lay off Waxing, Creams and Tweezing
For laser hair removal to be effective, there must be some hair. This is because the procedure delivers energy to the hair follicles beneath the skin’s surface. As the pigment of the hair absorbs the energy and destroys the follicle, this will prevent future hair growth.
As such, you should lay off waxing, tweezing, and shaving creams for at least six weeks before your first medi spa visit. Such procedures affect the hair follicles, which will reduce the effectiveness of the process.
If you simply must shave, talk to your medical spa service provider for helpful options that work for you.
Limit Your Exposure to the Sun
If you have had sun exposure in the two weeks, you should know that the laser used for treatment can damage the pigment of your skin. For people who frequent the beach, it is advisable to have your treatments during the winter to avoid discoloration.
Tanning is also discouraged before and after your medi spa appointment. A pre-treatment tan will make the procedure less effective and can cause skin discoloration. You should also avoid tanning sprays, beds, and creams after treatment as it can irritate your skin.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Lotions the Day of Your Appointment
On the day of the treatment, make sure your body is product-free. Clean your skin thoroughly with an unscented bar of soap and skip the makeup, deodorant, and even your favorite moisturizer. This is because areas that are slathered with products can get burnt during the procedure. As a result, your skin pigment will change, and it can take several months for it to fade.
Know that Lasers Vary for Different Skin Types
Depending on your skin type and hair color, not all lasers will be suitable for you. For those with light skin types 1-3 with fair hair, shortwave length lasers are used. Long-wavelength lasers are effective on skin types 4-6.
Remember: You Might Feel Some Pain and/or Discomfort
While your medical spa will try to be as gentle as possible, there is a chance your laser hair removal will cause some discomfort. According to patient statements, it’s a hot, sharp zap that resembles tiny rubber bands hitting the skin.
However, some devices have a cooling technology to help reduce discomfort. Do some research and talk to your treatment provider to know which treatment will be the most comfortable for you. A numbing cream could also be useful if the procedure is for sensitive regions such as underarms and bikini areas.
A laser hair removal session does not take long. However, you need to plan for it in advance to get the best results. When you’re ready to achieve the skin of your dreams, rely on the Healthy Lifestyle Medical Spa for more information.
