Your Questions About Laser Hair Removal, Answered

Even though laser hair removal has been around for almost thirty years (it was FDA approved in 1995), it’s been through a lot of changes. Many of the things we believe about laser hair removal are based on outdated information, or technology that we don’t use anymore. In this blog we’ll answer your most frequently asked questions about laser hair removal, busting a few myths along the way. 

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Will laser hair removal work?

The short answer is, yes. Laser hair removal works by pointing targeted light pulses (or lasers) at hair follicles. The laser vaporizes the hair and damages the hair follicle, so it won’t be able to produce hair in the future. It takes multiple sessions for optimal results, in order to catch the hairs in different growth stages. While patients may see varying levels of permanent removal depending on their hair color, you should see a drastic reduction of hair in the treatment area. Laser works best on those with lighter skin and dark hair, but the technology has come a long way, and now even those with blonde hair, or darker skin, can see results. Even if not all the hair goes away, if it does grow back, it tends to be much finer and paler in color. Some people need maintenance sessions every couple of years. 

Will laser hair removal mess up my tattoos?

Yes. Laser hair removal targets the pigment in the hair follicle; but it will also target the pigment in the tattoo ink. This means it will damage the tattoo and could cause more serious side effects, even burns. Any treatment provider who is well-trained and qualified will cover or avoid the tattooed areas. If you know you want laser hair removal someday on your legs or arms, hold off on getting tatted until your laser sessions are over. 

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Will laser hair removal help keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is an annoying skin condition where your skin generates too much protein around hair follicles, which clogs the follicle and creates many small bumps. It’s sometimes called “chicken skin” and commonly occurs on the backs of arms. Laser hair removal doesn’t directly address the cause of KP but it can help you if your KP is causing ingrown hairs. If you’ve tried other topical treatments without success, laser hair removal may help reduce those pesky little bumps. 

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Which laser hair removal is best for dark skin?

When laser hair removal technology first came out on the scene, it wasn’t effective for those with darker skin tones. But now new advances in the technology means that people with darker skin have options. The new lasers are able to distinguish between the pigment in the hair follicle and the pigment in skin. Two types of lasers that are optimal for darker skin tones are diode and ND:YAG. Call ahead before your appointment to confirm that your provider has suitable lasers, just to be on the safe side. And it’s critical to make sure you’re getting your laser hair removal from a qualified medical professional, as the risk of hyperpigmentation is higher for those with darker skin.

Can you get laser hair removal for your face?

Yes, you can. Women commonly get laser hair removal for the “mustache” hairs above their upper lips, or sideburns. An upside of facial hair removal is that treatment sessions are usually pretty quick because the treatment area is smaller. 

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Can you shave between laser hair removal treatments?

Yes–most of the time. In fact, your provider may tell you to shave shortly before your appointments in order to minimize pain. You may be directed to avoid shaving for a few days after your laser treatment, but you’ll have another 4-6 weeks between sessions, and shaving is ok once your skin has recovered from the last session. 

Can you pluck after laser hair removal treatments?

No! Please don’t pluck or wax hair in between laser hair removal treatments. In order for the treatment to be effective, it has to target the hair follicle multiple times, at different stages of hair growth. By plucking the hair yourself, you may prevent the hair from being permanently removed by the laser. But if you have a really horrible ingrown hair, go ahead and take it out. 

What not to do after getting laser hair removal?

Like we said above, no waxing, plucking, or sugaring! You should also avoid tanning and sun exposure, as well as tanning lotions, as they can irritate freshly lasered skin. Stay away from chlorine swimming pools, and don’t put heavily fragranced or harsh skincare products on the treated area. Your provider will give you more detailed information, too. 

Where can you get laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal should be performed by a qualified medical professional. But because this treatment is exploding in popularity, it can be hard to find available appointments with a provider you trust. That’s why we created the Upkeep app. With Upkeep, you can book laser hair removal and other MedSpa treatments on demand with just a few taps. You can compare availability at MedSpas in your area without having to call around and wait on hold, so you can find the appointment that works for your schedule. And you pay in the app, so pricing is up-front and there are no surprises when you get to the MedSpa. If you’re looking for an easy way to book laser hair removal, the Upkeep app is what you need. Download it today!