Step By Step Laser Hair Removal - What to expect during your treatment
April 27, 2023
A Step-by-Step Guide to Laser Hair Removal: What to expect during your treatment at Basingstoke Wellness
Laser hair removal is a popular and effective method for long-lasting hair reduction, and Basingstoke Wellness is proud to offer this service to our clients using DEKA Motus AY lasers, the same technology trusted by the NHS. Our commitment to high standards of service, coupled with our excellent reviews, make us a top choice for clients, including transgender individuals seeking hair removal as part of their transition journey. Furthermore, we are honoured to have recently signed an NHS contract for hair removal services for transgender patients, further solidifying our reputation for exceptional care and inclusivity.
At Basingstoke Wellness, our team of skilled practitioners is dedicated to providing personalised and effective treatments using our two FDA approved, DEKA Motus AY lasers. These cutting-edge devices are designed to deliver optimal results for all skin types and most hair colours, ensuring a comfortable and efficient experience for our clients.
If you are considering laser hair removal, you may have questions about the process and what to expect during your treatment. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step overview of what to expect during your laser hair removal treatment at Basingstoke Wellness, where our top priority is ensuring your satisfaction and achieving the best possible results, whether you are accessing our services privately or through the NHS Gender Identity Services.
“The consultation helps us understand your goals, assess your skin and hair type, and develop a personalized treatment plan.”
Initial Consultation
The first step in your laser hair removal journey is scheduling an initial consultation with one of our experienced practitioners. This crucial appointment serves as an opportunity to discuss your goals, assess your suitability for treatment, and develop a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs.
During the initial consultation, we will:
1. Discuss your goals and expectations: Your practitioner will talk with you about your reasons for seeking laser hair removal and the specific areas you wish to target. They will also discuss your desired outcomes, and provide realistic expectations for the treatment results.
2. Review your medical history and medications: To ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment, your practitioner will review your medical history, including any underlying conditions or allergies. They will also discuss any medications or supplements you are currently taking; certain medications can increase photosensitivity and some medical conditions may reduce the ability for your body to heal.
3. Perform a skin and hair assessment: Your practitioner will examine your skin type and the colour, texture, and density of the hair in the treatment area. This assessment is crucial for determining the most appropriate laser settings and treatment plan for your individual needs. Basingstoke Wellness uses both Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers, we can cater to a wide range of skin types and hair colours.
4. Develop a personalized treatment plan: Based on the information gathered during the consultation, your practitioner will develop a tailored treatment plan that outlines the number of sessions required, the spacing between sessions, and any necessary preparation and aftercare. This plan will also include an estimated cost for the entire course of treatments. For most people, the first few sessions will be 4 weeks apart, increasing to 6 or more as your course progresses.
5. Discuss potential side effects and risks: Your practitioner will inform you about the potential side effects and risks associated with laser hair removal. While most side effects are temporary and mild, it is essential to be aware of these possibilities and understand how to minimize the risk of complications.
6. Perform a patch test: a patch test is always required for laser and light based treatments. This test helps ensure that you do not have any adverse reactions to the treatment and allows the practitioner to fine-tune the laser settings for your specific needs.
7. Address any questions or concerns: The initial consultation is the perfect time to ask any questions you may have about the laser hair removal process, aftercare, or any other concerns. Our team at Basingstoke Wellness is committed to providing you with comprehensive information and addressing any concerns to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in your decision to undergo laser hair removal.
“Avoid sun exposure, tanning, and other hair removal methods, and inform your practitioner of any recent UV exposure or medication changes.”
Preparing for Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Proper preparation is essential for the success of your laser hair removal treatment and to minimize potential side effects. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the best possible results and a smooth treatment process:
1. Avoid sun exposure and tanning: Sun exposure or tanning can increase the risk of burns or pigmentation changes during laser hair removal treatment. For at least two weeks before your appointment, avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds, and sunless tanning products. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when outdoors.
2. Discontinue other hair removal methods: Refrain from using other hair removal methods such as waxing, plucking, or depilatory creams for at least four weeks prior to treatment. These methods can temporarily remove hair from the follicle, making the laser treatment less effective.
3. Shave the treatment area: Shave the area to be treated 24 hours before your appointment. This allows the laser to target the hair follicles more effectively while reducing the risk of burns and discomfort during the treatment.
4. Exfoliate to remove tanning products: Exfoliating your skin can help remove both real and fake tan, ensuring a more effective laser treatment. However, be gentle and avoid over-exfoliating, as this can cause irritation.
5. Fake tan is just as harmful as real tans: Fake tanning products can affect the laser's ability to target the hair follicles and may increase the risk of burns or pigmentation changes. Make sure to avoid using any fake tanning products for at least two weeks before your treatment.
6. Avoid using irritants: On the day of your appointment, do not apply any perfumes, deodorants, or lotions on the treatment area, as they may cause irritation when combined with the laser treatment.
7. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing: Choose clothing that is easy to remove and will not rub or irritate the treatment area after the procedure. Tight clothing, such as tight jeans, can cause irritated follicles. Opt for loose-fitting garments to help you feel more comfortable during and after the treatment.
8. Inform your practitioner of any changes: If you have started any new medications or experienced changes in your health since your initial consultation, inform your practitioner before your treatment. Some medications or health conditions may impact the laser hair removal process or your response to the treatment.
9. Make your practitioner aware of any UV exposure: If you've had any UV exposure, whether from natural sunlight or tanning beds, within the last month, inform your practitioner. This information is essential for determining the most appropriate laser settings and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of your treatment.
“Experience comfort and precision with our state-of-the-art Motus AY lasers. We actively cool the skin during treatment and adjust the settings based on your unique needs.”
The Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Once you have prepared for your treatment following the guidelines provided, it's time for your laser hair removal session at Basingstoke Wellness. Here's what you can expect during the procedure:
1. Arrival and preparation: When you arrive for your appointment, our staff will greet you and ensure you are comfortable. Depending on the location of the hair removal, you may be asked to remove clothing from the treatment area.
2. Cleansing the treatment area: For intimate areas, you will be provided with wipes to cleanse the area, ensuring your comfort and hygiene. If the treatment area is your face, your practitioner will remove any makeup and oils that could interfere with the laser treatment.
3. Protective eyewear: Both you and your practitioner will wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light. If your face is being treated, blackout goggles will be used.
4. Laser settings adjustment: Your practitioner will adjust the laser settings based on your skin type, hair colour, and hair thickness, as well as any feedback provided during the patch test.
5. Treatment process: The practitioner will use the Motus AY laser handpiece to target hair follicles in the treatment area. The laser emits light energy that is absorbed by the melanin in the hair, which then converts to heat, damaging the hair follicle and inhibiting future growth. You may feel a mild stinging or snapping sensation, similar to the feeling of a rubber band snapping against the skin, during the treatment. The duration of the session will vary depending on the size of the treatment area. Throughout the treatment, your practitioner will actively cool the skin using a cryocooler, which blows out cold air to enhance your comfort.
6. Post-treatment care: 6. Post-treatment care: After the treatment, your practitioner may continue to provide cooling using the cryocooler if necessary, though most people do not require additional cooling. Your practitioner will also provide you with specific aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
Remember, multiple sessions are typically required to achieve the best results, as laser hair removal is most effective when hairs are in the active growth phase. Your personalized treatment plan will outline the recommended number of sessions and the spacing between them.
“Gentle cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection ensure proper healing and the best results from your laser hair removal treatment.”
Post-Treatment Care
Following your laser hair removal treatment, it's essential to care for your skin properly to ensure optimal healing and results. Your practitioner will provide you with specific aftercare instructions, which may include the following general guidelines:
1. Avoid sun exposure: 1. Avoid sun exposure: Protect your skin from sun exposure for at least two weeks following your treatment. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher whenever you are outdoors, even on cloudy days. Sun exposure can increase the risk of pigmentation changes and hinder the healing process.
2. Keep the area clean: Within the first 24 hours, it's essential to prevent the treated area from getting dirty. Maintain your regular shower routine and pay particular attention to keeping intimate areas clean. Your practitioner will provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and the best possible results from your laser hair removal treatment.
3. Apply soothing products: Your practitioner may recommend applying aloe vera gel or a gentle moisturizer to the treated area to help soothe any redness or irritation. Avoid using any harsh or scented products on the skin, as they may cause further irritation.
4. Avoid heat and sweat: Steer clear of hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, and intense exercise for at least 24-48 hours after your treatment, as heat and sweat can irritate the treated area and prolong the healing process.
5. Avoid swimming or hot tubs for 24-48 hours, as chlorine may irritate your skin.
6. Resist the urge to pick or scratch: As your skin heals, you may experience some itching or flaking. It's essential to avoid picking, scratching, or rubbing the treated area, as this can cause scarring or infection.
7. Refrain from other hair removal methods: Do not wax, pluck, or use depilatory creams on the treated area during your course of laser hair removal treatments. These methods can disrupt the hair growth cycle and interfere with the effectiveness of the laser treatment.
8. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help promote healthy skin and aid the healing process.
Be patient: Some redness, swelling, and mild discomfort may occur after your treatment, but these side effects should subside within a few hours to a couple of days. If you experience any prolonged or severe side effects, contact your practitioner for further guidance.
9. Attend follow-up appointments: It's crucial to attend any scheduled follow-up appointments, as your practitioner will assess your progress, address any concerns, and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
10. Light exfoliation: It can take up to two weeks for hair to fall out of the follicle. A few days after treatment, you can begin lightly exfoliating the area to assist with the removal of hair from the follicle and promote healthy skin. Be gentle to avoid irritation.
11. Be patient: Some redness, swelling, and mild discomfort may occur after your treatment, but these side effects should subside within a few hours to a couple of days. If you experience any prolonged or severe side effects, contact your practitioner for further guidance.
By following these post-treatment care guidelines and the specific instructions provided by your practitioner, you can help ensure a smooth healing process and achieve the best possible results from your laser hair removal treatments at Basingstoke Wellness.
“Consistent follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your progress, address any concerns, and adjust your treatment plan as needed for optimal results.”
Quick Tips
1. Avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least two weeks after your treatment and four weeks before
2. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily
3. Use a gentle, cleanser and moisturiser on the treated area
4. Avoid hot showers, saunas, and hot tubs for 24-48 hours after treatment
5. Refrain from using any depilatory creams, waxing, or plucking between treatments
6. Gently exfoliate the treated area a few days after treatment to assist with hair removal from the follicle and promote healthy skin.
7. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to promote overall skin health and aid the healing process.
8. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure optimal treatment progress and address any concerns or questions you may have.