Skip to content Razors pile up in the bathroom. Waxing appointments eat up hours every month. Ingrown hairs show up at the worst times. Dealing with unwanted body hair can become tedious when you’re stuck in a cycle of temporary fixes that never truly resolve the issue.
Laser hair reduction offers a different approach. Instead of constantly fighting regrowth, the treatment targets hair follicles to slow and eventually stop growth altogether. It’s not instant, and it requires multiple sessions, but for people who want long term results, it beats the endless routine of shaving and waxing.
At Skyler Soares Skin Clinic, we walk people through this process every day. Let’s break down the full timeline of laser hair reduction from preparation through final results, so there are no surprises along the way.
Laser hair reduction treatment uses concentrated light energy to target the pigment in hair follicles. The laser heats up the follicle enough to damage it, which disrupts the hair growth cycle. Over multiple treatments, follicles weaken and produce less hair until growth stops almost completely.
The laser only affects hair that’s actively growing, which is why multiple sessions are necessary. At any given time, only about 20% of body hair is in the active growth phase. This means treating the same area several times over months catches all the hair as it cycles through its growth phases.
The technology works best on dark, coarse hair because the laser targets melanin, which is more prevalent in these types of hair. Newer laser systems have expanded options for laser hair removal for dark skin, which was once challenging because older lasers couldn’t distinguish between skin pigment and hair pigment.
Each session builds on the last. After the first treatment, some hair sheds within two weeks. What tends to reappear is softer and more delicate. After six to eight treatments, the majority of individuals experience a decrease in hair growth of up to 90%.
Preparation begins a few weeks prior to the initial appointment. It’s crucial to avoid waxing, plucking, or threading for a minimum of four weeks prior to the treatment. The laser requires the hair follicle to remain intact to effectively target it. Shaving is fine and actually required.
Avoid direct sunlight and refrain from using tanning beds for at least two weeks prior to the treatment. Having tanned skin increases the risk of burns or changes in skin color. Discontinue using retinoids and exfoliating products three to five days prior to treatment.
Shave the treatment area the day before or morning of the appointment. Come with clean, product free skin. No lotions, deodorant, makeup, or fragrances on the treatment area.
Most sessions last between 15 minutes and an hour, depending on the size of the area being treated. Small areas, such as the upper lip, take just minutes, while full legs might take close to an hour.
The provider cleans the area and may apply cooling gel. Protective eyewear goes on before the laser starts. The laser device moves across the skin in sections, delivering quick pulses of light. Every pulse resembles the sound of a rubber band snapping, accompanied by a sensation of warmth.
Discomfort levels vary by area. The underarm and bikini areas are generally more sensitive compared to the legs or arms. Most people tolerate it fine, describing it as briefly uncomfortable rather than truly painful.
After treating the entire area, the provider applies soothing gel or aloe. There might be some redness immediately after, similar to mild sunburn. This usually fades within a few hours.
Laser hair removal aftercare helps maintain healthy skin and optimize results. Avoid hot showers, baths, saunas, and intense exercise for 24 hours. Heat can irritate freshly treated skin.
Stay out of the sun entirely for at least two weeks following your treatment, as the skin that has been treated is more susceptible to UV damage. When going outside, use SPF 30 or higher and cover treated areas if possible.
Don’t use harsh skincare products for several days. Stick to gentle cleansers and fragrance-free moisturizers. The treated hair doesn’t fall out immediately. It takes one to two weeks for damaged follicles to shed their hair.
Between sessions, shaving is allowed and even necessary if hair grows back. Just avoid waxing, plucking, or threading. Most providers recommend spacing sessions four to six weeks apart.
After the first session, expect to see some shedding within two weeks, followed by a period of hair loss. Then the hair starts growing back, but it usually grows back finer and slower than before.
By session three or four, reduction becomes obvious. There’s noticeably less hair, and what does grow is lighter and softer.
After completing six to eight sessions, most people achieve a reduction of up to 90%. Some areas may require additional sessions, depending on hair thickness and hormonal factors. Maintenance sessions might be needed once or twice a year to catch any stubborn follicles.
Here’s why many people choose permanent hair reduction over traditional hair removal methods:
Laser Hair Reduction works well for many, but some individuals achieve faster and longer-lasting results than others. Here’s who typically benefits the most from this treatment:
Contact us at Skyler Soares Skin Clinic to start your journey to smoother, hair-free skin with our expert laser hair reduction services in Scottsdale, AZ.
Laser hair reduction turns the hassle of hair removal into a series of manageable treatments with lasting results. Although it requires time and commitment, it offers a permanent solution for those tired of temporary methods.
Understanding what to expect before, during, and after each session can ease concerns. With proper preparation and aftercare, treatments go smoothly, and the results are impressive. At Skyler Soares Skin Clinic, our expert team specializes in safe and effective treatments for all body areas.
Learn about our laser technology and how it can work for your hair type and skin tone.
Book a complimentary consultation and one of our skincare and injectable specialists
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