Ah yes, the age-old struggle of Man vs. Hair.
We’ve all thought about it, we’ve all struggled with it, but really, what are we doing about it?
Thanks to Laser Hair Removal, we don’t need to do much!
Yup, you heard that right. Thanks to this modern-day beauty treatment, you can say goodbye to unwanted body hair. Forever.
If this is your first time hearing about this genius innovation (although we highly doubt it!), then don’t sweat it – we’ve created this ultimate guide just for you.
In this article, we break down everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal – the benefits, the process, the risks (you’ll be happy to know there aren’t that many!) and other commonly asked questions.
And trust us, by the end of this learning session, you and your pesky hair will wanna get in on the action! Don’t worry, we’ve got that covered too.
Here at Lovoir Day Spa (Christchurch’s award-winning day spa at that!), our Laser Hair Reduction treatment is a customer favourite for safe, effective, pain-free hair removal!
But more on that later. For now, let’s start learning, shall we?
Other Laser Hair Removal articles:
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
We know what you’re probably picturing: A device emitting a beam of light, like the lightsaber of Luke Skywalker – Star Wars icon and (my personal) childhood hero. And actually, that’s pretty accurate! Minus the jedis, robots and galactic wars, of course.
Laser Hair Removal involves a handheld device with a single spectrum of light, which penetrates the skin to destroy hair follicles by targeting its pigment (aka its color).
While the thought of it may sound intense, it’s actually a safe, non-invasive treatment that does not cause any long-term damage! That is, if done by a professional. Here’s how our expert aestheticians do it at Lovoir Beauty.
- First, we start by shaving the hair in your target area. By removing these hair strands, the laser device will be able to easily spot the follicles to be removed. While most skin clinics advise you to shave a day before the treatment, you may also ask our trained therapists to do it for you.
- Next, we’ll give you an option to apply a topical anesthesia to numb your skin from any pain from the procedure. Although, trust us, there is nothing to worry about – pain or discomfort is usually minimal, and for some, non-existent. For reference: The sensation is similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin – a mild sting but quick!
- Now, the fun begins! The laser hair removal process.
Here at Lovoir Beauty, we use a Triple Wave Diode Laser, a highly advanced laser device that emits a concentrated beam of light onto the skin. Unlike the original versions of laser technology, it is able to emit a range of three wavelengths – 755nm, 810nm, 1064nm.
Excuse all the scientific jargon! Basically put: Our Triple Wave Diode Laser works with a specific spectrum of light, allowing it to effectively target hair follicles. Once absorbed by the follicle, the light is then converted to heat, which then destroys the root – all done without damaging the surrounding skin. Amazing!
What’s even more impressive? It’s suitable for all skin tones and types.
Phew, that was a mouthful, but we hope you got the gist!
- Our aesthetician will run the laser throughout your target area, afterwhich we will end the session by applying a cooling gel to soothe the skin and minimize side effects.
All in all, the entire session will take between 15 to 30 minutes, with succeeding sessions requiring less time.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Absolutely! Would we be recommending it if it wasn’t?
Here at Lovoir, our Laser Hair Reduction treatment is just as safe as it is effective.
- Non-invasive
- Non-damaging to the skin
- No downtime – you can carry on with your day without stress, fuss, or lingering discomfort.
Just make sure to follow our aesthetician’s aftercare tips and you’ll have absolutely no reason to worry!
Who Shouldn’t Get Laser Hair Removal?
If you identify with any of the categories below, we recommend starting with a skin consultation with one of our therapists. We’ll need to discuss a few things before we decide if Laser is the right hair removal treatment for you – if not, we also offer waxing or electrolysis, two great alternatives.
- People with light blonde or grey hair. These hair types have minimal to zero pigment, so it may be hard for any laser machine to locate the follicles. In that case, waxing or electrolysis may be a better option for you!
- People who have keloid scars in the target area.
- People who are taking certain medications, like acne treatments.
- People who have or have had skin cancer.
- Pregnant women.
Are Laser Hair Removal Results Instant?
Well, yes and no. Let us clarify!
Yes, you will leave the session with hair-free skin. But no, this isn’t the final result yet.
For long-term hair removal, you will need to go through multiple rounds of Laser Hair Removal. As you progress through sessions, you will notice the appearance of less hair and overall slower growth.
Once you complete your required sessions, you will be left with hair-free, smooth skin! Results can last for months to several years, with minimal need for touch ups in between.
How Many Laser Sessions For Best Results?
The range of required sessions will ultimately depend on the area you want done and your natural hair growth cycle.
Typically, a complete laser removal treatment is 6 to 12 sessions, with a break of 4 to 6 weeks in between. Don’t worry, all of this will be discussed during your pre-treatment consultation.
Are Laser Hair Removal Results Permanent?
Ideally, yes. But again, this will depend on your hair growth and skin condition!
We have tons of customers who experience permanent hair loss after they complete their sessions.
In a similar manner, some people can still experience minimal hair growth, but this usually takes months or even years to recur. In such cases, it is easy to book touch ups with us to maintain good results!
Laser Hair Removal at Home: Yay or Nay?
While at-home Laser devices are everywhere and do offer some results, they cannot promise the same safety or quality as professional treatments done at a skin clinic, day spa or salon. And if ever you do find a brand that says they do – you should start speculating! If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
Okay, first, let’s be clear: At-home Laser devices may be beneficial in helping you maintain your new fuzz-free skin, acting to zap away the odd hair here or there. BUT, that comes after you’ve had a full treatment plan with a professional provider (like us!).
Secondly, if the at-home Laser device is not used safely or correctly, you may experience negative side effects – definitely not something you want to be taking a gamble on!
That said, when you’re considering a permanent hair removal (meaning you’ll never need to fork out on waxing, razors, epilators and the like ever again), it really is worthwhile to pay for top quality. Prioritise the cost of the results – not the cost of treatments!
Laser Hair Reduction vs. Removal: Is There a Difference?
Technically, Laser Hair Reduction and Laser Hair Removal are one and the same thing. They both refer to a permanent hair removal treatment using laser technology.
Some skin clinics (like us at Lovoir Beauty) just prefer the term Laser Hair Reduction to manage customer expectations that minimal hair regrowth may occur for some people. Because, as we already mentioned, results differ per person depending on your natural hair cycle.
That said, in the rare chance of regrowth, it is barely noticeable, takes a long time to happen, and is easily corrected with maintenance treatments!
Whatever the case may be, both Laser Hair Removal and Laser Hair Reduction are the best treatments for permanent or long-term hair removal. Which brings us to our next section – how does Laser compare to other treatments?
Laser vs. Other Hair Removal Treatments: What’s Better?
While Laser Hair Removal is the crème de la crème in permanent hair removal, there are other great professional treatments worth learning about, each with its own set of pros and cons. And depending on your goal and preference, one may be better than the other.
Here’s how they fare vs. Laser!
Waxing vs laser hair removal
- Similarities:
- Both Waxing and Laser remove hair from the root, offering more long-term results vs. shaving.
- Both are quick and easy procedures, taking between 15 to 30 minutes depending on the target area.
- Differences:
- Waxing is more painful than laser hair removal.
- Waxing does not promise permanent results as hair regrowth occurs after a few weeks.
- Waxing is suitable for all types of hair, including very light-coloured hair, which is a limitation for Laser devices.
- Waxing or laser hair removal – what’s better?
- For instant results: Waxing
- For permanent results: Laser hair removal
- For extremely light hair: Waxing
- For sensitive skin: Laser hair removal
There’s a lot more we can say when it comes to comparing these two treatments, but we tried to keep it short and simple!
If you want a more detailed comparison, head on over to our article on Waxing vs. Laser Hair Removal – we discuss everything from benefits, risks, and procedures to tips for combing the two and choosing one is best for you.
IPL hair removal vs laser
- Similarities:
- Both IPL and Laser Hair Removal are safe, non-invasive treatments that make use of light technology to destroy hair follicles from the root.
- Both promise long-term to permanent results. As mentioned, this will ultimately depend on your personal hair growth cycle, but more often than not, these two treatments deliver on that promise.
- Both are suitable for dark hair, but not ideal for extremely light hair.
- Differences:
- IPL Hair Removal uses a broad spectrum of light, which allows it to capture a larger area of hair follicles. This means each session is quicker vs. laser.
- Laser Hair Removal makes use of a single spectrum of light, which allows it to target each hair follicle better and more effectively. This means less sessions to get the best results vs. IPL.
- IPL hair removal or laser hair removal – what’s better?
- For permanent hair removal: Both Laser and IPL Hair Removal
- For a faster session: IPL Hair Removal
- For faster results (with less sessions): Laser Hair Removal
Electrolysis vs laser hair removal
- Similarities:
- Both Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis are safe, non-invasive treatments that destroy the hair follicle from the root, leading to long-term or permanent hair removal.
- Differences:
- Unlike Laser Hair Removal, the technology behind Electrolysis has nothing to do with targeting the pigment of hair follicles. Instead, it uses a thin, needle-like probe to conduct an electrical current into each hair follicle, damaging it long-term and preventing hair from growing.
- Because of its mechanism of action, Electrolysis is suitable for any hair colour or skin colour. Moreover, its safe and precise technology allows it to work on the eye area, making it a good option for eyebrow shaping or hair removal. These two points are perhaps its biggest advantages vs. Laser.
- Laser’s advantage, on the other hand, is its fast results, taking only 4 to 6 sessions to complete the treatment plan (plus minimal touch-ups every few years if needed). Although equally effective, electrolysis may take up to 30 sessions for those with thick hair, dark hair, or dark skin. Each session takes longer as well, especially for large areas, as the process is more complex.
- Laser hair removal is also considered less painful or uncomfortable vs. electrolysis, at least according to advocates of both.
- Electrolysis or laser hair removal – what’s better?
- For long-term or permanent hair removal: Both Laser and Electrolysis
- For minimal pain and discomfort: Laser Hair Removal
- For faster and fewer sessions: Laser Hair Removal
- For all skin colours and hair colours: Electrolysis
In a Nuthsell: Choosing The Right Hair Removal Treatment For You
If you’re a bit overwhelmed with all the information above, here’s a little cheat sheet you can refer to when choosing the right hair removal treatment for your goals and preferences.
Whatever it is you decide on, we’ve got you covered here at Lovoir!
Book Laser Hair Removal here!
Book Waxing here!
Book Electrolysis here!
- Results
- For instant hair removal: Waxing
- For long-term hair removal: Laser, IPL or Electrolysis
- Side Effects
- For minimal pain and sensitivities: Laser, IPL or Electrolysis
- Skin Type
- For sensitive skin: Laser, IPL or Electrolysis
- Hair Type
- For light hair: Waxing or Electrolysis
- For dark hair: All
- Part of the Body
- For facial hair: Laser, IPL or Electrolysis
- For body hair: All
- Budget
- For affordability per session: Waxing
- For affordability long-term: Laser, IPL or Electrolysis
For a more in-depth guide on the other hair removal treatments, feel free to browse through our curated guides below. They’re full of insightful and interesting facts!
Tips Before Laser Hair Removal
Dos Before Laser Hair Removal:
- Book a consultation before you decide to get Laser Hair Removal. This will allow our skin therapists to assess the condition of your skin and hair, as well recommend the best treatment plan to achieve your goal.
- Shave both before and in between treatments.
Book a consultation here!
Don’ts Before Laser Hair Removal:
- Don’t wax, pluck or thread before Laser Hair Removal as it will only work with hair in its growth stage, i.e. when it is still attached to the follicle.
- Don’t have a tan during – or immediately after – treatment as it can target pigment in the skin and cause scarring.
Tips After Laser Hair Removal
- Gently cleanse the target area while showering. While our treatment is generally safe and painless, your skin will be sensitive, as with any beauty treatment.
- Apply a high-SPF sunscreen daily, especially if your outfit exposes the target area to the sun.
- Do not use other hair removal methods in between sessions, like waxing or any treatment that removes hair from the root. They’ll just get in the way of you achieving the best results.
Best Laser Hair Removal in Christchurch
Laser hair removal results speak for themselves. So, what are you waiting for?
Book laser hair reduction here!
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