Like so many of us ladies, I've always found the removal of unwanted body hair to be a tedious, daunting task. I've tried creams like Nair and shaved for years, until I made the switch to waxing. In all of these methods, I felt smooth, but I never felt like that feeling lasted.
Last year, I finally decided to take the plunge and go for it: I wanted a more permanent solution to hair removal and wanted to try laser. I booked in a consultation with Jo of Medisthetics Wellness & Laser Clinic to explore my options.
My first concern was the rumoured "pain" that I would feel. Jo assured me that with the highest technology that she offers, I wouldn't feel more than a snap. She offered to do a test patch on me and she was right! I was sold!
From My Experience, Here are Some Answers to Some of the Questions You Might Have - I Had the Same Ones!
Q: Can You Tell Me More About How it Feels?
A: Of course! The best way that I can describe laser hair removal is as a warm zapping feeling. It's relatively painless and once I tried it, I wondered what I'd been so worried about and only wished I'd done it sooner.
What's more, Jo makes the entire process incredibly comfortable. She's respectful, professional, and super quick! She makes the entire process a smooth one - pun intended.
Q: When Should I Start Treatment?
A: Ideal treatment time can vary based on your goals. Typically, laser hair removal is best beginning at the end of summer, and into the fall and winter, when you'll be spending less time outdoors and in the sun (because the laser targets pigment and a tan is not preferred).
That said, laser hair removal is still safe in the summertime. If you're planning a trip away to a cottage, to a tropical destination, or plan to be lounging by a pool, for example, Jo will help accommodate for those goals and schedule you in accordingly.
Q: How Many Treatments Do I Need?
A: Laser hair removal works on a 6-week schedule, to align with your hair growth patterns and to target the hair during the regrowth phase. To see the full results of the treatment, Jo will advise a series of treatments. I remember at my first appointment her telling me: "I'm committed until the hair is gone!"
Q: Am I an Ideal Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
A: Amazingly, 90% of patients are! I had looked into more permanent solutions to hair removal in the past and was always told that being blonde made it impossible. Jo changed that!
Of course, the most ideal hair and skin types for the laser to target are fair skin with dark and thick hair, but this does not rule anyone out. Darker complexions can still benefit! At your consultation, Jo will take a detailed inventory of your hair and skin type, family background, and more, to best determine the device settings for you.
Q: Are There Side Effects?
A: I haven't experienced any. At all. The patch test during my consult helped to determine how my skin might react and it was the smoothest it's ever been. I haven't had any issues, ever!
Q: Is Downtime Necessary?
A: Not at all. I've always been able to jump right back into my normal routine immediately after treatment. Jo advises avoiding chlorine, perfumed products, time in the sun, and heated products, like wax on the treated areas, which is standard.
Q: What If I'm Taking Medication?
A: This is something that's definitely important to disclose to Jo, especially if it might be something that could cause increased sensitivity. Most medications are safe to use while undergoing the treatment and laser hair removal will not interfere with or affect your medications. You should also let her know if you experience any sort of reaction following treatment, and she'll be sure to follow up regardless.
Q: How Much Does It Cost?
A: While your treatment package may vary depending on your goals, what I will say is that Jo's pricing is competitive and that she's mindful of your budget. She's more than fair and wants you to feel as comfortable as possible. With me, she brought up a reasonable payment plan and is always offering sales and discounts, too! It's an investment, but in my experience, totally worth it. To ease your mind, think about all of the products, lotions, potions, and more than you've purchased through the years of your hair removal journey.
Q: Do I Need to Prepare?
A: The day of your treatment, you will be required to shave and clean the area(s) to be treated. This is because the laser does not target the hair at the tip, but rather, at the follicle. A smooth canvas helped the device to glide more smoothly, plus then, in the coming days, you can see the shedding hairs falling out. You'll also want to avoid waxing and tanning beforehand,.