19 questions to ask before you commit to laser hair removal
Did you know, the average woman spends around £6,500 in a lifetime removing hair with a razor and 8 weeks of her life managing unwanted hair?
That is a lot of money and effort, and the allure of smooth, hair-free skin is hard to resist, so no wonder you are contemplating opting for laser hair removal…
But before you dive in, there’s one crucial step: the consultation. This meeting lets you gather all the essential information and ensure that the treatment aligns with your needs and expectations. You risk encountering unexpected issues, costs, and potential safety concerns without asking the right questions. A lack of information can lead to dissatisfaction and complications.
To make the most of your consultation and ensure a successful treatment, here’s a guide to the key questions you should ask. This will help you understand the procedure, the clinic’s capabilities, and what to expect, allowing you to make an informed decision confidently.
1. How does laser hair removal work?
Lasers use concentrated light to target melanin in hair follicles; this is likened to sitting in the sun wearing black clothes! The light heats the hair follicle, impairing future growth. The process works in stages, targeting the hairs in their active (Anagen) growth phase.
Understanding the mechanism helps set realistic expectations about how the treatment works and why multiple sessions are necessary.
This knowledge also helps you understand why some hairs might fall out immediately, while others might need additional treatments.
2. What type of laser do you use?
We use the gold standard in hair removal, the solid state, medical grade, Cynosure Alexandrite / Nd:YAG laser, viewed in the industry as the most effective laser types for both light and darker skin tones.
We ensure that it is appropriate for your skin and hair type, and provide safe and efficient treatment by doing a test patch first and subsequently assessing you at every appointment.
3. Am I a good candidate for laser hair removal?
Factors such as your hair colour, skin tone, and medical history affect your suitability for laser hair removal. Ideal candidates typically have a contrast between their skin and hair colour.
Determining your suitability helps manage your expectations, ensures safety and a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
If you’re not an ideal candidate, we will discuss alternative options or modifications to improve the treatment’s effectiveness.
4. How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required varies depending on the area, the laser used, hair growth cycles, medical conditions and individual responses.
Typically, multiple sessions are needed and with our Cynosure laser we find that on average 6 -12 sessions are required with occasional maintenance sessions.
Knowing the expected number of sessions helps you plan your time and budget. It also prepares you for the commitment required to achieve and maintain the desired results, preventing frustration from unexpected delays or additional sessions.
5. What should I expect after each session?
Post-treatment effects can include redness, swelling, or a sunburn-like sensation. The severity of these effects can vary based on individual sensitivity and the treatment area.
Understanding what to expect after each session allows you to manage these effects effectively. It helps you prepare for temporary discomfort and adjust your activities and skincare routine accordingly.
6. Will it hurt?
Pain levels can vary from person to person. Most people describe the sensation as a brief, sharp pinch or snap, but some areas might be more sensitive than others.
Knowing what to expect in terms of pain helps you mentally prepare and decide if you need any pain management strategies. It also reduces anxiety about the procedure and helps you feel more comfortable during the treatment.
You will have a better understanding of the sensation after your patch test.
7. Are there any risks or side effects?
Whilst side effects are rare, the potential risks include burns, pigmentation changes, or scarring. Understanding these risks helps you weigh them against the benefits of the treatment and take steps to mitigate them.
Awareness of potential risks ensures you can make an informed decision and follow any recommended precautions. It also helps you promptly recognise and address any side effects, ensuring a safer treatment experience.
8. What are the costs for my specific treatment areas?
Laser hair removal costs can vary based on the size of the area being treated and the number of sessions required. We offer a variety of package deals for multiple sessions.
Please have a look at our pricing page for more details and keep an eye out for special offers
9. Will I need touch ups after my initial sessions are completed?
Laser hair removal usually results in long-term hair reduction. Think of it as hair management which will start from the beginning of your treatment course, however it may not permanently eliminate all hair.
Most people will need top-up sessions.
10. How do you handle post-treatment care and possible side effects?
Proper aftercare is crucial for optimal results and healing. This may include specific skincare products or avoiding certain activities. We will discuss aftercare with you during your appointment and there are instructions on our website.
Knowing the aftercare procedures ensures you can follow them correctly, reducing the risk of complications and enhancing your results. It also provides reassurance that support is available if you experience any issues post-treatment.
11. Can you provide references/reviews from previous clients?
Yes, we definitely can. We have loads of reviews on our website and on Google Business and Facebook.
12. What training and experience do the practitioners have?
The qualifications and experience of the practitioners are critical for ensuring safe and effective treatment.
Experienced practitioners are more likely to handle your treatment with expertise, reducing the risk of complications and improving the overall outcome. Understanding their background helps to ensure you’re receiving care from skilled professionals.
Sian is fully qualified and insured and has over 24 years of experience working in the industry, opening one of the first laser clinics in the UK. She specialises in laser treatments for the face and body.
13. How do you ensure the equipment is up-to-date and well-maintained?
The condition of the equipment affects the safety and efficacy of the treatment. Regular maintenance and updates are essential for optimal performance. It also reflects Permanent Beauty’s commitment to quality and can prevent issues related to outdated technology.
14. Are there any preparation steps I need to follow before my treatment?
Certain preparations, such as avoiding sun exposure or discontinuing certain skincare products, may be necessary before your session.
Proper preparation enhances the effectiveness of the treatment and reduces the risk of side effects. Knowing these steps in advance helps you prepare adequately and ensures a smoother treatment process.
15. What should I do if I experience unusual symptoms after treatment?
It’s important to know how to handle unexpected symptoms, such as severe redness or blistering, and what steps to take if they occur.
Having a clear protocol for managing unusual symptoms ensures you know how to address any issues that arise. It also provides peace of mind that the clinic is prepared to support you in case of complications.
16. How long should I wait between sessions
The interval between sessions, usually starting at 4-6 weeks, allows the hair growth cycle to progress and helps achieve optimal results.
Understanding the recommended waiting period helps you schedule your treatments effectively and ensures that each session is as effective as possible. It also helps you plan your treatment timeline around your personal schedule.
17. Are there any restrictions on activities after treatment?
- Undertake any activity that creates heat – such as exercise, sauna, steam bath, cooking over steaming pans etc. or use a swimming pool or Jacuzzi
- Use perfumed lotions, perfumed skincare products or soap based products
- Use sunbeds or sunbathe during a course of laser treatment
- Have treatments when immune system is low due to stress, excess alcohol/drugs, illness
- Use any method of hair removal except trimming or shaving
- Use Vitamin A or anti-aging products for 2 days either side of your treatment.
Knowing these restrictions helps you avoid activities that could interfere with your healing process or affect your results. It also allows you to plan your post-treatment activities to ensure a smooth recovery.
18. What measures do you take to ensure hygiene and safety?
Strict hygiene and safety protocols are essential to prevent infections and ensure a safe treatment environment.
Confirming the clinic’s hygiene and safety measures ensures a clean and safe treatment area. It also reflects the clinic’s commitment to providing high-quality care and protecting your health.
19. Can I see a patch test before committing to full-scale treatment?
Yes, definitely. We will do a test patch during your free consultation to ensure that your skin reacts well and identify any potential issues before proceeding with full treatment.
A patch test allows you to assess your skin’s reaction to the laser, reducing the risk of adverse effects during full treatment. It also helps you feel more confident in the procedure’s safety and suitability, and helps you understand what sensation to expect.
Asking these questions is more than just a formality; it’s about ensuring you’re fully informed and comfortable with your decision. Each question provides insight into different aspects of the treatment, from the technology and effectiveness to the costs and potential risks.
A thorough consultation allows you to evaluate the clinic’s expertise, understand the treatment process, and set realistic expectations. By getting detailed answers to these questions, you can make an informed choice and confidently embark on your laser hair removal journey, knowing that you’ve covered all your bases and are well-prepared for the road ahead.