Laser Hair Removal: Everything You Need to Know Before Starting
If you’ve been thinking about starting laser hair removal, autumn and winter are the perfect time to begin. Laser hair removal works as a course of treatments, so starting now means you can work towards smoother, lower-maintenance skin in time for next spring and summer.
But how does laser hair removal actually work? Does it hurt? And how many sessions will you need? We’ve answered some of the most common questions we get asked about laser hair removal below.
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a long-term hair reduction treatment that uses targeted laser energy to heat the hair follicle and disrupt its ability to produce new hair.
At Cedar Therapy, we use the Soprano Titanium, an advanced laser hair removal system designed to provide effective treatment while keeping the experience as comfortable as possible.
Because your hair grows in different stages, not every hair can be successfully targeted during one appointment. This is why laser hair removal is carried out as a course of treatments, gradually reducing the amount and thickness of hair in the treated area.
What are the benefits of laser hair removal?
One of the biggest benefits of laser hair removal is simply having to think about your body hair less.
Regular shaving, waxing and other temporary hair removal methods can become time-consuming and expensive, particularly when you add up the cost over several years.
Laser hair removal can offer:
- Long-term hair reduction
- Smoother-feeling skin
- Less time spent shaving or waxing
- Fewer shaving-related cuts and irritation
- Reduced problems with ingrown hairs
- The ability to treat both small and larger areas of the body
It can be particularly beneficial if shaving or waxing regularly leaves your skin feeling irritated.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
This is probably one of the questions we hear most – and the good news is that laser hair removal doesn’t have to be painful.
Our Soprano Titanium technology gradually heats the treatment area rather than delivering the intense snapping sensation traditionally associated with some laser systems. Its cooling technology also helps to keep the skin comfortable throughout treatment.
Most clients find their appointments surprisingly comfortable and are able to get straight back to their day afterwards.
Will laser hair removal work on my hair type?
Laser hair removal works by targeting pigment within the hair, which means your hair colour and type are important when determining whether treatment will be suitable for you.
The Soprano Titanium can treat a wide range of skin tones and hair types. However, very light hairs with little pigment may not respond effectively to laser treatment. Fine vellus hair, sometimes referred to as peach fuzz, is also not suitable for laser hair removal.
This is why we begin your laser journey with a free consultation and patch test. We can assess your skin and hair, discuss the area you’d like treated and advise whether laser hair removal is the right option for you before you commit to a course.
How many sessions of laser hair removal will I need?
Everyone’s hair growth is different, so the exact number of sessions required can vary.
Laser can only effectively target hairs when they are within the appropriate stage of their growth cycle. As different hairs enter this stage at different times, multiple appointments are needed to achieve the best possible reduction.
Treatments are typically spaced around six weeks apart, and we’ll advise you on the recommended course and treatment intervals during your consultation.
Once you’ve completed your initial course, occasional maintenance treatments may also be recommended depending on your individual hair growth.
This is also why starting your laser journey during autumn or winter is such a good idea. Your treatment course takes place gradually over several months, so getting started now gives you plenty of time to see results before next summer.
How much does laser hair removal cost?
The cost of laser hair removal depends on the area – or combination of areas – you’d like to have treated.
Smaller areas naturally cost less than larger areas, and we’ll go through the different options and prices with you during your consultation.
At Cedar Therapy, you can also save 20% when having any three areas treated, making it a great option if you’d like to tackle several areas at the same time.
While laser requires a greater upfront investment than shaving, it can significantly reduce your reliance on razors, waxing appointments and other temporary hair removal methods in the long term.
How do I prepare for a laser hair removal treatment?
There are a few important things you’ll need to do before your appointment to make sure your skin is ready for treatment.
You should shave the treatment area before your appointment, but avoid waxing, plucking or epilating beforehand. Laser needs the hair follicle to be present beneath the skin in order to target it effectively.
You should also avoid tanning and excessive sun exposure around your treatment course and follow all of the preparation and aftercare guidance provided by your laser therapist.
Before your first treatment, you’ll need to attend your consultation and patch test. This gives us the opportunity to assess your skin and hair, explain exactly what to expect and make sure treatment is suitable for you.
Is now the right time to start laser hair removal?
If smoother, lower-maintenance skin is on your wish list for next summer, now is one of the best times to start.
Rather than waiting until the weather gets warmer, beginning your course during autumn or winter gives you time to complete multiple sessions before summer arrives.
At Cedar Therapy Banbury, our experienced therapists use the Soprano Titanium to provide comfortable, effective laser hair removal tailored to you.
Ready to find out if laser hair removal is right for you?
Book your free laser hair removal consultation and patch test at Cedar Therapy Banbury and start your journey towards smoother skin.