For over a decade, I've helped people achieve smoother skin with laser hair removal. As a Licensed Medical Aesthetician and Certified Laser Technician, I'm here to debunk the myths and share the secrets to getting the best results.

What to Expect with Laser Hair Removal

Let’s get one thing straight: laser hair removal isn’t a one-time, permanent solution. Rather, it's laser hair reduction. 

Most patients will need 6-8 treatments, spaced about 6-10 weeks apart, depending on the area being treated. 

After completing a full treatment protocol, you’ll likely see a minimum reduction of around 80% of the hair. It's unrealistic to expect that every hair follicle will be eliminated. 

For long-term results, maintenance treatments are often necessary to keep unwanted hair at bay. The frequency of these treatments varies for each individual and depends on factors like hair type, skin type, and overall hormonal balance to name a few. Maintenance sessions may be needed every few months, annually, or even less frequently. However, it's essential to understand that life events and changes in your body can impact hair regrowth.

Hormonal fluctuations, such as those caused by pregnancy, menopause, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can stimulate dormant follicles and lead to new hair growth. Similarly, certain medications, including hormone replacement therapies or steroids, may also affect the body’s hair growth patterns. 

By scheduling periodic maintenance treatments, you can address these changes proactively, ensuring that your results remain consistent and long-lasting over time.

Skin Type, Hair Color, and How They Affect Laser Hair Removal Results

One of the most crucial things to understand is that not all skin types and hair colors respond the same to laser hair removal. 

The best candidates are individuals with fair skin and dark, coarse hair. The laser energy is absorbed more easily by darker hair, which is why it’s much more effective for individuals with black or dark brown hair. If you have blonde, red, gray, or white hair, the laser might not be as effective, or in some cases may not work at all.

Darker skin tones, such as those of African, Indian, or Asian descent, can still undergo treatment, but it requires a different wavelength, such as the 1064 nanometer, to ensure safety and effectiveness. However, this method may require lower energy settings, and while it's still possible to see results, the treatments might not be as fast or as efficient as those for lighter skin tones.

For darker skin tones, there is also a greater risk of hypopigmentation (light spots) or hyperpigmentation (dark spots). 

This is why it’s vital to seek out a practitioner with extensive experience treating these skin types. At LifeScape, we prioritize safety and have the expertise and technology to safely treat patients with all skin tones.

Laser Hair Removal Prep and Post-Treatment Care

Proper pre-treatment care is just as important as the treatment itself. 

You’ll want to avoid sun exposure before your treatment and shave the area 1-2 days beforehand. Don’t apply lotion or creams on the treatment area the day of your session. 

For underarm treatments, it’s essential to skip deodorant on the day of your appointment.

After treatment, you'll need to avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen. Avoid activities that could irritate the treated area, such as vigorous workouts, hot tubs, saunas, or hot yoga. 

It’s important to give your skin time to recover and use gentle cleansers and moisturizers to support healing.

How Laser Hair Removal Works

Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in the hair follicle with concentrated laser energy, which heats and damages the follicle to inhibit its ability to produce hair. This process is most effective during the "anagen" phase of the hair growth cycle, also known as the active growth phase. During this phase, hair is actively growing and still connected to the follicle, allowing the laser to precisely target and disrupt its function.

Hair grows in cycles, transitioning through three main stages: anagen (active growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). At any given time, only a portion of your hair is in the anagen phase, which is why laser hair removal requires multiple treatment sessions spaced several weeks apart. 

This ensures that as more hair enters the anagen phase, the laser can effectively treat all targeted follicles for long-term hair reduction.

Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

While some people experience a bit of discomfort during the treatment, the cryogen cooling mechanism in the GentleMax Pro laser makes it much more comfortable. It doesn’t eliminate the sensation entirely, but it helps to ease the pain. Numbing cream is also an option for areas that tend to be more sensitive.

The process is quick—underarm treatments, for example, take less than 15 minutes. Depending on the area being treated, you may need 6-8 sessions, spaced out every 4-8 weeks. 

Laser Hair Removal Myths vs. Reality

There are a lot of myths floating around when it comes to laser hair removal. One common misconception is that it’s too expensive. In reality, treatments start at around $75 per session, and depending on the size of the area being treated, it can be quite affordable, especially when compared to the cost of waxing over the years.

Another misunderstanding is that the results are immediate. After treatment, the hair won’t fall out instantly. Instead, it takes a few weeks for the treated hair to shed. Additionally, as the laser works on hair in the anagen phase, multiple sessions are necessary to catch all the hair follicles in this optimal growth stage.

At-Home Alternatives for Laser Hair Removal vs. Professional Treatments

While there are at-home laser hair removal devices available on the market, they are not as effective as professional-grade lasers. 

These devices typically have lower energy settings, meaning you will need many more treatments, and the results will not be as significant. I’ve personally tried one of these devices and honestly didn’t notice much of a difference. The investment in an at-home device often ends up being more expensive in the long run compared to receiving professional treatments.

If you're not ready for laser hair removal, other options include waxing and sugaring. While effective, these methods can be more painful, and repeated waxing can lead to hyperpigmentation, especially when combined with sun exposure.

The Future of Laser Hair Removal

Looking ahead, one of the most exciting developments in the field is the potential to treat lighter hair colors more effectively. While lasers have always worked best on dark hair, advancements in technology may soon allow for more effective treatments for blonde, red, and gray hair.

In addition, lasers are becoming increasingly gentle, and we are able to tailor treatments even more precisely to each patient’s unique skin and hair type.

Why Choose LifeScape for Laser Hair Removal in Scottsdale

Being nominated for "Best Laser Hair Removal" in Arizona is a huge honor, and we believe it's our commitment to patient safety and satisfaction that sets us apart. 

Dr. Wilder, our medical director, emphasizes safety above all else, ensuring that every treatment is done with the best technology available. The GentleMax Pro, for instance, is a gold standard laser that combines effectiveness with safety. It’s our goal to offer treatments with optimal results, using only the best equipment available.

In addition, my personal experience speaks volumes. With a decade of experience in laser treatments, I’ve developed a deep understanding of how to customize each session to meet the individual needs of my patients. I’ve been trained extensively and continue to stay updated on the latest advancements in laser technology.

If you’re considering laser hair removal, remember to do your research. Choose a reputable clinic with experienced professionals who prioritize your safety and comfort. At LifeScape, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process and help you achieve smooth, hair-free skin for the long term.

A Lifescape Laser Hair Reduction Success Story

I’ve had many patients share their success stories with me, but one that stands out is a patient who struggled with painful, cystic ingrown hairs in her bikini area. After undergoing laser hair removal, she stopped dealing with the constant irritation and infections, and it completely changed her quality of life. It’s stories like these that remind me of the life-changing impact of this treatment.

Laser Hair Removal in Scottsdale, AZ

Noelle Cesario, LME, CLT is a Licensed Medical Aesthetician and Certified Laser Technician with 18 years of experience in aesthetic treatments. She specializes in laser hair removal among other laser treatments, facials and bodysculpting, and is committed to providing the highest standard of care for her patients.

Request a Consultation today to learn more about laser hair removal.