LASER HAIR REMOVAL

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal works by delivering a concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair. The light energy travels down the hair shaft to the follicle, where it is converted into heat. This heat safely damages the active hair follicle, reducing its ability to produce future hair while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed.

Following treatment, the damaged hairs remain in the follicle for a short time before naturally shedding over the next 1 to 3 weeks. Because hair grows in different cycles, multiple treatments are required to effectively target hairs during their active growth phase and achieve the best long-term reduction.

Am I a good candidate?

The best candidates have dark hair and lighter skin, as laser targets hair pigment. At Pampered Soul, we use advanced technology suitable for all skin types, though darker skin tones may need more sessions for best results.

Laser hair removal is not effective on blonde, gray, white, or red hair due to low pigment.

You may not be a candidate if you have active skin irritation, infection, or a recent tan. For sun-exposed clients, fall and winter are the best times to start treatment to ensure safe, effective results.

How to Prepare for Your Treatment

For the best and most comfortable treatment experience, shave the entire treatment area within 12 hours of your appointment, but avoid shaving immediately before your visit to prevent irritation.

For four weeks prior to treatment, avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, waxing, chemical peels, and products containing Vitamin A derivatives such as Retin-A®, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and hydroquinone. If you are taking any medications known to cause photosensitivity, please consult with your healthcare provider before treatment.

On the day of your appointment, arrive with the treatment area clean and free of makeup, moisturizers, sunscreen, and other skincare products.

What does it feel like?

A cooling ultrasound gel is applied to the treatment area, followed by the laser’s built-in cooling tip, which helps keep the skin comfortable and protected throughout the procedure.

As the laser pulses, you may feel a brief tingling or light pinprick sensation accompanied by gentle warmth. The sensation can become slightly more noticeable as additional passes are performed, but the treatment is generally well tolerated.

At Pampered Soul, your comfort is our priority, and we do everything we can to make your treatment experience as comfortable and relaxing as possible.

What to Expect After Treatment and Aftercare

Following your laser hair removal treatment, your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight. Protect the treated area by applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapplying regularly when exposed to the sun. Avoid outdoor tanning and tanning beds between treatments, as recently tanned skin can increase the risk of adverse reactions.

Between treatments, shaving is the only recommended method of hair removal. Avoid plucking, waxing, electrolysis, sugaring, threading, and depilatory creams, as these methods remove the hair from the follicle and can interfere with your next laser treatment.

Over the following 10 to 14 days, treated hairs will naturally shed. You may gently exfoliate the area with a soft cloth while showering or cleansing to help loosen and remove shedding hairs. Avoid aggressive scrubbing or exfoliation if the skin is irritated or sensitive.

How many sessions are required?

Everyone responds differently to laser hair removal, as hair growth patterns, hair type, skin type, and individual biology can all affect results. Most clients begin to see significant hair reduction within 3 to 5 treatments, while approximately 7 to 10 sessions may be recommended for maximum long-term reduction.

Treatments are typically scheduled every 4 to 6 weeks for the face and every 6 to 8 weeks for the body, allowing enough time for new hair growth to enter the active growth phase that the laser can effectively target.

Possible side effects

Laser hair removal is generally well tolerated, but temporary side effects can occur. Mild redness, swelling, tenderness, or temporary discomfort are common and typically resolve within several hours. Raised follicles and pinkness around the treated hairs are also normal and generally subside within 24 hours.

Temporary changes in skin pigmentation, including lightening or darkening of the treated area, may occur. The risk can be higher with sun exposure before or after treatment and in individuals with darker skin tones, which is why following all sun-protection instructions is especially important.

Rare side effects may include blistering, scarring, or changes in skin texture. Your technician will assess your skin and medical history before treatment and provide individualized recommendations to help minimize potential risks.