Laser hair removal, in plain terms
A few basics cover most of what people want to know first:
- A handheld device sends light pulses into the skin over the area.
- The light is aimed at the pigment in hair.
- Sessions are usually spaced several weeks apart.
- Most people have a series of sessions. How many varies.
- Skin tone and hair color affect which device fits.
- Shaving the area beforehand is usually requested. Waxing and plucking usually are not.
A licensed provider decides what is suitable at a consultation, after asking about your skin, hair and health.
Things a provider may rule out for now
Sometimes a provider decides to wait before laser hair removal. Common reasons include:
- a recent tan, sunburn or self-tanner
- pregnancy
- a skin infection, rash or open wound in the area
- a medicine that raises light sensitivity
- recent waxing or plucking in the area
- a mole or tattoo that needs to be avoided or checked first
Waiting is part of a careful plan. Ask the provider what would need to change and when it makes sense to come back.
Write down your hair removal history
Your past hair removal tells a provider a lot. Before a consultation, write down how you have removed hair in each area: shaving, waxing, threading, plucking, creams, or earlier laser or light treatments. Note roughly when you last did each one.
Add anything you noticed, such as ingrown hairs, irritation or dark marks afterward. Then list medicines, supplements, recent sun and pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Bring this with your questions. A licensed provider looks at your skin and hair, considers your notes, and decides what is suitable.
Questions about laser hair removal
How many laser hair removal sessions will I need?
It varies. Laser hair removal is usually a series of sessions spaced weeks apart, and the number depends on the area, your hair, your skin and the device. A licensed provider can say what is typical after seeing you, and nobody can promise a set number.
Does skin tone affect laser hair removal?
Yes. Skin tone and hair color affect which device and settings fit. Some devices are generally used for lighter skin, and others, such as Nd:YAG lasers, are often chosen for deeper skin tones. Ask the provider which device they use and why it suits you.
Does recent sun matter?
Yes. A tan, a sunburn or self-tanner changes how skin responds to laser light, and many providers wait until it fades. Mention any recent sun and planned trips at your consultation. The provider may suggest planning sessions for times of year when sun exposure is lower.
Tell a provider in Palm Springs what you would like to ask. You decide what happens after you talk.
Send my requestMore consultation topics
Skin treatments
Learn what common skin treatments are in plain terms, then request a consultation with a provider in or near Palm Springs.
Ask about injectables
Questions about wrinkle relaxers or fillers? Request a consultation with a licensed provider in or near Palm Springs.
Body contouring consults
Learn what non-surgical body contouring is in plain terms, then send a request to ask a provider about it.