Unwanted hair can be time-consuming to manage. Shaving, waxing and plucking may provide short-term results, but regular maintenance can become frustrating and expensive over time.
Laser hair removal offers a longer-term solution by targeting the hair follicle and reducing future hair growth. At The Lanes Health and Beauty, clients in Brighton can discover a convenient and professional approach to smoother-looking skin.
Whether you are considering treatment for your legs, underarms, bikini area, face or another area, this guide explains everything you need to know before booking laser hair removal.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a treatment that uses controlled light energy to target the pigment in the hair. The energy travels down the hair shaft and is absorbed by the follicle, helping to reduce its ability to produce new hair.
Because hair grows in different stages, a course of treatments is normally recommended. Each session targets hairs that are actively growing, which is why multiple appointments are needed for the best possible results.
Laser hair removal is designed to provide long-term hair reduction, rather than guaranteeing that every hair will be removed permanently.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
During treatment, a laser device delivers pulses of light to the chosen area. The light is absorbed by the hair pigment and converted into heat, which affects the follicle while protecting the surrounding skin when the treatment is correctly administered.
You may feel a warm sensation, mild snapping or small pinpricks during the session. Treatment comfort can vary depending on:
- The area being treated
- Hair thickness and density
- Skin type
- Individual sensitivity
- The treatment settings used
A consultation and patch test are important before treatment begins. These help assess your skin and hair, discuss your suitability and establish an appropriate treatment plan.
What Areas Can Be Treated?
Laser hair removal may be suitable for many areas of the body, including:
- Face
- Chin and upper lip
- Underarms
- Arms
- Legs
- Bikini line
- Hollywood or Brazilian areas
- Back
- Chest
- Stomach
The face and intimate areas can be more sensitive, so it is particularly important to follow professional advice and aftercare instructions.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal can offer several benefits compared with traditional hair-removal methods.
Long-Term Hair Reduction
A course of treatments can help reduce hair growth over time. Any regrowth may become finer, lighter and less noticeable.
Less Frequent Shaving
As hair growth reduces, many clients find they need to shave less often.
Smooth-Looking Skin
Unlike shaving, laser hair removal does not leave the short-term stubble that can appear after a few days. It may also help reduce the irritation caused by frequent shaving.
Fewer Ingrown Hairs
Laser hair removal can be useful for people who experience shaving bumps or ingrown hairs. Reducing hair growth may help minimise the cause of the problem.
Time-Saving Results
Reducing the need for regular shaving, waxing or plucking can save time in your everyday routine.
How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions varies from person to person. Treatment plans depend on factors such as:
- Hair colour and thickness
- Skin tone
- Treatment area
- Hormonal changes
- Hair growth cycle
- Previous hair-removal methods
Many people require a course of several treatments, with appointments spaced apart to allow the hair cycle to progress. Your therapist at The Lanes Health and Beauty can discuss your individual requirements during your consultation.
Occasional maintenance appointments may also be recommended.
Preparing for Laser Hair Removal
To help your treatment run smoothly, you may be advised to:
- Avoid waxing, plucking or threading before treatment
- Shave the treatment area as instructed
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning before your appointment
- Avoid applying fake tan to the treatment area
- Arrive with clean skin
- Avoid using strongly fragranced products on the area
- Tell your therapist about any medication or skin products you use
Always follow the specific preparation advice provided by your practitioner.
What Happens During a Treatment?
Your appointment will usually begin with a consultation to confirm the treatment area and check that the skin is suitable.
The area may be cleansed before the laser device is applied. Protective eyewear should be worn where appropriate. The treatment itself may take anywhere from a few minutes to longer, depending on the size of the area.
After the appointment, your therapist will explain how to care for your skin and when to return for your next session.
Laser Hair Removal Aftercare
After treatment, the skin may appear slightly red or feel warm. This is usually temporary, but you should follow your therapist’s aftercare advice.
General aftercare may include:
- Avoiding hot baths, saunas and steam rooms for the advised period
- Avoiding intense exercise immediately after treatment
- Protecting the skin from direct sunlight
- Using a high-factor sunscreen on exposed areas
- Avoiding perfumed products on treated skin
- Not scratching or picking the area
- Avoiding waxing or plucking between sessions
If you experience an unusual or prolonged reaction, contact your treatment provider for advice.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Laser hair removal is considered a safe treatment when performed by a trained professional using appropriate equipment and settings.
A consultation and patch test are essential. These allow your practitioner to identify potential contraindications and determine whether treatment is suitable for your skin and hair type.
You should always inform your therapist if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have recently tanned
- Take medication that affects light sensitivity
- Have an active skin condition or infection
- Have recently used strong exfoliating or prescription skincare
- Have a history of unusual scarring or skin reactions
Is Laser Hair Removal Suitable for Everyone?
Laser hair removal may not be suitable for every person or every hair colour. The treatment generally works most effectively when there is a contrast between the hair and the surrounding skin.
Very light, grey, white or red hair may respond differently because it contains less of the pigment targeted by the laser. A professional consultation is the best way to assess suitability.
Skin that is recently tanned may also require treatment to be postponed.
Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
Everyone experiences treatment differently. Most clients describe the sensation as warmth, mild snapping or tiny pinpricks.
Sensitivity can vary depending on the treatment area, hair type and individual pain threshold. Your practitioner can explain what to expect and help make the appointment as comfortable as possible.
Laser Hair Removal Versus Waxing and Shaving
Shaving cuts the hair at the surface of the skin, while waxing removes the hair from the root. Laser hair removal works differently by targeting the follicle beneath the skin.
Waxing and shaving can still be useful between laser sessions, but plucking and waxing are generally discouraged during a course because they remove the hair from the follicle, which is needed for the laser to target it.
Your practitioner will advise you on the most suitable hair-removal method between appointments.
Why Choose The Lanes Health and Beauty?
Choosing a reputable salon is an important part of your laser hair-removal journey. The Lanes Health and Beauty offers clients in Brighton a professional setting to discuss their treatment goals, ask questions and receive personalised guidance.
Before beginning treatment, you can expect to discuss:
- Your desired treatment areas
- Your hair-growth concerns
- Your skin type and recent sun exposure
- Your previous hair-removal methods
- Your expected results
- Preparation and aftercare
- A suitable treatment schedule
Book a consultation with The Lanes Health and Beauty to find out whether laser hair removal is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does laser hair removal take?
The length of each appointment depends on the area being treated. Small areas, such as the upper lip or underarms, usually take less time than larger areas such as the legs or back.
Can I shave between laser hair-removal appointments?
Shaving is generally the preferred method between sessions, as it does not remove the hair from the follicle. Follow the advice given by your therapist.
Can I wax during a laser hair-removal course?
Waxing, plucking and threading are usually avoided during a course because they remove the hair from the follicle. Your practitioner will explain what is suitable for your treatment plan.
When will I see results?
Some clients notice a reduction in hair growth after their first few sessions. Results vary, and a full course is normally needed to achieve the best possible outcome.
Is laser hair removal permanent?
Laser hair removal is commonly described as permanent hair reduction. Results vary and some maintenance treatments may be needed over time.
Can I have laser hair removal in summer?
Treatment may still be possible during summer, but avoiding direct sun exposure and tanning is important. Your appointment may need to be postponed if the skin is recently tanned.
Should I have a consultation first?
Yes. A consultation and patch test help assess suitability, explain the treatment and identify any factors that may affect your results.
Book Laser Hair Removal in Brighton
If you are tired of shaving, waxing or dealing with unwanted hair, laser hair removal could be a suitable long-term hair-reduction option.
For professional advice and treatment in Brighton, contact The Lanes Health and Beauty to arrange a consultation and discuss your goals.
Book your laser hair-removal consultation today and take the first step towards smoother-looking skin.