At our clinic in Dudley, we carry out laser hair removal every day. However, if you are new to the world of laser treatments, your first session can feel like a daunting prospect. Here’s a step-by-step guide of what to expect with our state-of-the-art Trilogy Ice laser Hair Removal system, which will give you the confidence of smooth hair-free skin in time for the summer.
Step one: consultation
The first stage involves a consultation with a qualified aesthetician, who will make a detailed assessment of your skin type, hair colour, and expectations to create a tailored treatment plan. They will ask some questions about your medical history to ensure that you are suitable for the treatment, and they will carry out a small patch test.
It’s also your opportunity to ask any questions and discuss any concerns you may have, as well as to clarify your treatment goals.
One of the most common questions is ‘will laser treatment be suitable for my skin type/hair colour?’ While not all laser hair removal systems work for everyone, we use the innovative Trilogy Ice system that makes use of three laser wavelengths (755nm, 808nm, and 1064nm).
This means that it can target hair follicles at different depths, so it can be applied effectively to finer or coarser hairs, and will work equally well on lighter or darker skin and hair tones, including tanned skin.
Another common question is ‘what areas of the body can laser skin removal treat?’ The Trilogy Ice system can treat unwanted hair on the face, such as the chin, upper lip or jawline; and the body, such as under the arms, the legs, back and chest; and in sensitive areas such as the bikini line.
Step two: pre-treatment prep
To get the best results, avoid waxing, plucking or epilating your skin at least two weeks before your appointment, because the laser treatment targets the roots of the hair follicles. However, you may be advised at your consultation to shave the areas to be treated 24 hours before the treatment.
Do not put skincare with active ingredients such as retinol onto your skin prior to the treatment.
Step three: the treatment
During the treatment, the Trilogy Ice device is passed over the area in smooth motions. Most people find it painless, although you may experience a mild warm tingling sensation. The device has an integrated cooling system so you won’t feel the discomfort that some people experience during alternative laser treatments.
No painkillers will be necessary, and the procedure is quick. The exact length will depend on the size and number of areas that are being treated.
Step four: recovery & aftercare
The vast majority of people will need no downtime, although you might notice some redness or slight swelling of the treatment area, which will soon subside. You may wish to apply a cooling gel such as aloe vera to calm the skin. For one to three weeks after the treatment, dead hairs will continue to shed.
You may also be advised to stay out of the sun, or apply SPF to any exposed treated areas of skin. As a precaution, you may also be advised to avoid intense heat such as saunas and hot baths or showers.
Step five: top up sessions
Multiple sessions will be needed to achieve a fully hairless result, because hair grows in cycles so it needs to be treated at each stage of growth. Typically, this will involve six to eight sessions spaced around four to six weeks apart. Avoid plucking or waxing between sessions.
