Preparing for Laser Hair Removal
Preparation for laser hair removal is simple but important. We highly recommend following your specialist’s advice before the treatment. Here, we have gathered all the recommendations to help you achieve effective and safe results. Additionally, here we dive into tips to ensure you choose the right technology and laser for your skin.
Find the Right Specialist and Laser
The first step is to gather information about the available treatments to understand which dermalaser is best suited for your skin type.
The Alexandrite Laser
The Alexandrite Laser is ideal for individuals with fair to light skin, specifically skin types I–IV. Known for its high effectiveness, it can achieve excellent results in fewer sessions. Most clients require just 5-6 sessions for a full course, and many notice significant improvements even after the first session. Some clients even complete their course of laser hair removal service in as few as 3 sessions, a feat that other lasers typically cannot match.
ND:YAG Laser
The ND:YAG Laser (1064 nm) is the safest option for dark and tanned skin, making it suitable for skin types IV-VI. While it is a safe and effective choice, the treatment typically requires a slightly longer course to achieve optimal results.
Diode Laser
Diode Laser (808 nm) theoretically work on any skin type, but they tend to yield the best results on light skin with dark, non-stubborn hair. A full course generally requires twice as many treatments of laser depilation, around 12-14 sessions. However, the cost per session is often lower due to the more affordable price of diode laser machines compared to professional clinic lasers like Alexandrite.
What to Consider When Choosing a Laser Hair Removal Service
The first priority should be the laser technology and the brand of the machine used—this can account for up to 70% of the results. Ensure the equipment is certified, ideally with FDA and CE certifications, as this indicates adherence to high safety and effectiveness standards. Always opt for original, professional-grade machines and be wary of low-cost imitations, which often lack proper certification and can compromise your safety and results.
To help you get ready for laser hair removal treatment, here’s a quick list:
Different specialists and skin boutique may give varying recommendations depending on the laser technology used. The guidelines we provide to our clients are based on working with the Clarity II™ laser by Cynosure and Lutronic.
The innovative Clarity II™ machine, with its ultra-short pulse duration, can target even the lightest, finest hairs—such as those on the face—that other lasers often miss. At the same time, its high power quickly and effectively removes stubborn, coarse hair. It operates twice as fast as many other lasers, is safe for all skin types, and delivers visible results from the very first session.
Featuring dual wavelengths—Alexandrite and Nd:YAG—it offers tailored settings for every skin tone and hair type, ensuring safe and effective treatment from the lightest to the darkest skin.
1. Do not get your skin waxed or sugared for at least 3 weeks before your session.
These methods remove hair from its roots and can reduce the effectiveness of lasers.
2. We recommend shaving prior to your sessions.
Trim the area a day prior to the appointment to leave only hair stubs, which allows the laser to effectively target hair follicles .
3. Prevent sun exposure to your skin.
Avoid sunbathing or tanning for at least two weeks before your session. If you have sunburned or tanned your skin, the laser treatment won’t be safe. If you plan to spend a lot of time in the sun, use sunscreen daily to prevent sun exposure, especially in the days leading up to your visit.
4. Talk to your doctor or nurse.
If you’re on any medications, especially those that make you sensitive to light, like some antibiotics, retinoids, or hormonal drugs, contact your doctor before treatment. Several medications may heighten your skin’s sensitivity to laser light.
5. Be ready for the procedure on the day of it.
Please arrive at the clinic with clean, shaved skin. We recommend not using deodorants, perfumes, or creams on the treatment area on the day of your procedure, as these products may disrupt the effectiveness of the laser treatment.
To sum up briefly
In conclusion to this short guide, we can say that preparing for laser hair removal is quite simple. It only requires a few simple steps to ensure the safety and maximum effectiveness of the laser hair removal procedure. Avoid waxing, shave properly, use professional razors, protect your skin from the sun with SPF 50 cream, consult your doctor about medications, and come prepared for your laser hair removal session at our clinic in Funchal.
Additionally, choose a clinic that uses certified, original, and professional-grade laser machines—such as those with FDA and CE certification—to ensure the best results and your safety.
Following these recommendations will improve your results and minimize potential risks, resulting in clearer, smoother skin and a more satisfying result. If you are keen to learn more about laser hair removal and common questions, visit our laser hair removal FAQ section. Our experts have prepared answers to questions that often bother our clients.
