FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Laser FAQ
How many sessions of laser hair removal will I need?
There is no average number of sessions that applies to each and every person. The hair on each persons body is different in terms of thickness, darkness and density. The more hair someone has, the more sessions they'll need. The less hair someone has, the less sessions they'll need.
How often do I need to do laser hair removal?
As a general rule of thumb, for the first 4-6 sessions (given the individual needs that many sessions) should be spaced apart at 4 week intervals. As the density and thickness of the hair lessens with time, those 4 week increments can increase to 5, 6, 7 or even 8 weeks. Sometimes even more (12 weeks). How well individuals follow pre and post laser care will influence their results which in turn will influence how spaced apart the sessions will be.
Will laser hair removal get rid of my hair forever?
No! The laser will effectively destroy hair all over the body meaning individuals will eventually no longer have to shave as often. HOWEVER hairs will eventually start to reappear much finer and lighter once individuals stop laser hair reduction treatments. The hairs will not go back to their original state in terms of thickness, darkness and density. Laser simply delays hair growth.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
Laser hair removal relies heavily on the therapist understanding how to adjust the machines settings to provide effective treatments whilst ensuring the client isn't uncomfortable for the duration of their session. Clients should be getting lasered at an intensity that it comfortable for them to handle. As the hair becomes weaker, lighter and thinner, clients will be able to withstand higher energy settings.
Can I go into the sun before and after laser hair removal?
It is recommended clients avoid sun exposure 2 weeks before and after their laser sessions. This minimises the risk of the client getting an adverse reaction from the laser such as (but not limited to) laser burns and folliculitis (little pimples all over the body). Excess heat within the skin can trigger both things to occur. If one does decide to go in the sun before and after a laser session, it is strongly recommended they wear sunscreen (SPF50+), protective clothing such as pants and long sleeves, as well as a hat to protect their face.Please note that ALL skin tones can be lasered regardless of how light or dark. Clients cannot be lasered if their skin is sunburnt or peeling. Tanned skin is OK to laser!
Do I need to shave before a laser treatment??
Yes! The hair should be shaved 1-2 days prior to an appointment. The shorter the hairs, the better. Benefits of shaving include:
1. a more effective treatment as the lasers energy will not be wasted on pigment sitting above the skin. It will be focused on the pigment of the hair beneath the skin
2. a less painful treatment
3. lower chance of getting burnt
Electrolysis FAQ
How many sessions of electrolysis will I need?
For electrolysis to effectively work, the hair needs to be in the correct stage of the hair cycle, which is the anagen stage. The anagen stage is the stage at which the hair is actively growing because it is connected to the dermal papilla (responsible for hair growth). Some hairs will only need to be treated once, while others will need a few sessions for permanent results.
How often do I need to do electrolysis?
Sessions should be done once every 1-4 weeks depending on the area being treated. For small areas such as chin and sideburns, monthly appointments are ok as full clearance can usually be achieved in one session. However for larger areas such as shoulders and upper back, weekly or biweekly sessions are advised to help achieve quicker results due to greater hair density.
Will electrolysis get rid of my hair forever?
Yes! Electrolysis is the only permanent method of hair removal. Within 1-3 sessions, permanent results can start to be seen. Consistency is crucial as well as ensuring the hairs are shaved or trimmed 4-6 days prior to a treatment, to help force the hairs into the anagen stage.
Please note that extreme hormonal changes may impact the effectiveness of the treatment.
Do I need to shave before electrolysis?
It is recommended to shave or atleast trim the hairs 4-6 days prior to a session as it helps force the hairs into the anagen stage of the hair cycle. Electrolysis will not work if the hairs are in the catagen or telogen stages as the hairs are no longer connected to the dermal papilla in these stages.
If clients are not wanting to shave or trim the areas prior to a treatment, they run the risk of seeing no results overtime.
ideally hairs need to be 1-3mm in length for an effective treatment.
Does electrolysis hurt?
Settings are adjusted according to the clients pain tolerance. During the patch test/consultation, settings are started on the lower end and gradually increased depending on the hairs resistance. If high levels are needed to achieve the desired outcome and the client cannot withstand the pain, settings will be adjusted.
2 possible approaches are:
1. higher settings with less time in each follicle (more painful)
2. lower settings with more time in each follicle (less painful)
​
Sensitivity varies amongst different parts of the body. For example: upper lip tends to be more sensitive in comparison to chin or neck.
What does recovery look like post treatment?
Redness, swelling, scabbing and sensitivity are all commonly seen after a session. Skin returns to normal anywhere between 1-14 days post treatment. The average recovery time is 1-5 days, however this varies depending heavily on factors such as general skin sensitivity, hair density, and skin colour.
Will I get hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a possible side effect from the treatment. It is more commonly seen in individuals with darker skin tones due to the already active melanocytes within the skin. For darker skin tones, it is recommended to take the 'lower settings-longer time' approach to help minimise the risk of the trauma to the surrounding skin.