Everything You Wanted to Know About Laser Hair Removal

We get lots of personal questions regarding beauty treatments and rightfully so! Before scheduling an appointment for one of our many cosmetic services, there are several factors to consider. It’s important to us for our patients to feel comfortable, informed, relaxed and confident in the treatment they are looking to get. We are dedicated to making sure our patients’ look and feel their very best. That’s why we welcome all questions (and assure you there are no bad ones).

After performing over hundreds of laser hair removal treatments, our owner, Shawnda Dorantes MSN, FNP-C, has heard just about every question imaginable. Over the last several years, laser hair removal has been ranked as one of the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedures by the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Given its popularity, laser hair removal is one of our most highly requested treatments; we’ve helped hundreds of clients get both the results and information they need. With hot girl summer now in full swing, we’ve gathered our most frequently asked questions on laser hair removal and included them below. Are you curious about what really happens when you visit us for permanent silky, smooth skin? Keep reading!

Q: How does laser hair removal work? Sounds like magic.

A: Laser hair removal is a long-lasting alternative to hair removal that uses heat from lasers to target and destroy hair follicles. It’s a super quick procedure that prevents hair follicles from growing hair and, unlike other hair removal techniques (like shaving, waxing, plucking, etc.), laser hair removal can completely rid you of hair growth after you’ve completed your round of sessions.

Q: Why not just shave, wax or pluck instead?

A: While there are several ways to remove hair, they just don’t compare to laser hair removal. Shaving causes ingrown hairs, scarring and irritation. Waxing hurts and so does plucking. Lastly, laser hair removal is a permanent fix that will save you money on razors, wax, creams and more in the long run.

Q: Do men get laser hair removal?

A: Yes! This treatment can be performed on all genders and skin types. Our male clients typically get the hair on their chest, back and abdomen removed but we also specialize in intimate areas, too. We call this the “Manzillian.”

Q: Will the hair be removed completely from the area after my first treatment?

A: To completely remove all of the unwanted hair from a certain area, it requires multiple laser hair removal treatments every four to six weeks for maximum effectiveness. After a series of consistent treatments, and minor occasional touch ups, that unwanted hair will be a thing of the past.

Q: My vacation is tomorrow and I need a laser treatment ASAP. Should I book now?

A: If the vacation doesn’t involve the sun, swimming pools, hot showers, baths, saunas and tubs, sure! If the vacation is on the beach, will leave the area you are lasering exposed to the sun or you’ll be wearing tight clothing, it’s best to skip treatment for this specific trip.

Q: Can I tan before, during or after my appointment?

A: You will need to avoid sun exposure in the treatment area 10-14 days both before and after your appointment as well as no use of self-tanning sprays and lotions 10-14 days before (after is fine); doing so can affect the laser’s ability to target hair follicles for removal.

Q: Are there any other procedures, products or activities I should avoid while getting laser hair removal treatment?

A: You’ll have to avoid waxing, bleaching or plucking any hair that will be removed at your appointment 10-14 days before your first appointment and in between each follow up appointment. However, all patients are asked to shave the area completely prior to their appointment. Pre-shaving helps the laser focus on the root of the hair and produce maximum results.

Scented lotions and deodorant can irritate the skin so we recommend using these sparingly during treatment. If you’re getting hair removed from your face, it’s important to come to your appointment with clean and makeup-free skin.

Q: Do laser treatments work on darker skin?

A: Yes! I, myself, am a person of color and have over ten years of experience treating BIPOC here in San Marcos, CA. Our state-of-the-art lasers properly distinguish hair follicles and skin pigment no matter how light or dark one’s skin is. To ensure safety and to maximize results, it’s important for POC clients to avoid using skincare products that create photosensitivity (AHAs/BHAs, retinol, salicylic acid, etc.) at least a week before treatment.

Q: How can I book my first appointment?

A: You can book your first laser hair removal appointment here! If you’re ready to go all in and get silky smooth from top to bottom, chat with us about our full leg, Brazllian and small area laser hair removal package.