Category: Laser Hair Removal

If you have not already started your quest for a Hair Free Summer, now is the perfect opprtunity and the the right time of year to do so.

If you would like book a free patch test? Our friendly team of experts will be more than happy to help. Get in touch today for more information or to book a consultation. If you’ve made the decision to invest in laser hair removal, you’ll be pleased to know there are a number of ways you can elevate your results – and prolong them.

Typically, laser hair removal can last for years but maintenance sessions will be needed throughout this period.

At Surrey Laser Clinic, we want you to benefit from the full potential of laser hair removal. So below, we’ve pulled together some tips that will help you to get maximum results and ensure that they last longer. 

Before You Start Your Laser Hair Removal

Tip 1: We recommend shaving 12 hours before each treatment. This will ensure your skin is in the optimum condition. It’s important not to wax, pluck or epilate 4 weeks before your treatment though. Shaving is allowed because it does not remove the hair follicle under the skin. 

Tip 2: Your skin needs to be free from any lotions, SPF, deodorants and cosmetics. This includes fake tanning products. It’s also important not to use a sunbed before laser hair removal.

Tip 3: Be sure to wear loose clothing that allows you to easily expose the desired treatment area. 

Tip 4: On the day of your treatment and 24 hours before, it’s important to keep hydrated. This helps your body temperature to stay regulated and your skin to be ready for the treatment. 

After Your Laser Hair Removal

Tip 1: You should avoid waxing, tweezing or plucking the area that was treated as this can disrupt the treatment process as well as stimulate the hair follicle. 

Tip 2: Post treatment, you should avoid direct sun exposure for 2-4 weeks. This includes sunbeds. 

Tip 3: For at least 48 hours, avoid very hot baths, hot showers or steam rooms. You should also avoid swimming for the first 2 days. 

Tip 4: Keep your skin hydrated with your favourite moisturiser. However, we recommend not putting any perfumed creams on your skin for the first 2 days. Aloe gels or calming creams can be used though. 

Tip 5: You may experience some slight redness. Try not to touch the treated area. This could cause irritation, and the skin could break, leading to scarring. 

Tip 6: Wear loose clothing to avoid any friction in the treatment area.

Please get in touch or book in for a Skin Consultation with one of our Experts here, if you want to have a quick chat, please do give us a call on 01932 731762

YES! ….. there is

Starting laser hair removal in Autumn/Winter is a really clever decision for many reasons –

Sad, but true with reduced Sunshine Exposure during these months and also that we tend to spend more time indoors due to cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, make it the perfect time to start.

This reduced sun exposure is beneficial because laser hair removal is most effective on untanned skin. Sun exposure can make the skin more sensitive and increase the risk of side effects like hyperpigmentation or burns.

We wear more clothes – In the colder months, we wear more clothing that cover the treated areas, making it easier to protect the skin from sun exposure immediately after a session. This can help prevent potential complications and ensure a smoother recovery.

Laser hair removal typically requires multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart to target hair follicles at different stages of growth. Choosing to start the process as autumn & winter draws in, gives you several months to complete the full series of treatments before spring graces us with its presence and then of course summer, when you might want to show off your beautiful smooth skin.

Laser hair removal can make your skin more sensitive for a short period after each session. The cooler months can be more comfortable for those with sensitive skin, as they are less likely to experience discomfort due to heat or sunburn.

It’s important to note that, regardless of the season, you should always follow the guidelines provided when it comes to protecting your skin from sun exposure during and after laser hair removal. Sunscreen and protective clothing are essential throughout the entire treatment process to ensure the best results and minimize the risk of adverse effects.

We are here to help you with any questions you have, book in for a Skin Consultation with one of our Experts here, if you want to have a quick chat, please do give us a call on 01932355529

You hear so many different things about Laser Hair Removal, it is hard to know which is the truth and which is a complete myth. We thought we would answer a few of these for you –

Myth: No shaving is needed before laser treatment?

Truth: For the laser treatment to be effective, the hair has to attract the light energy and transport it to the hair follicle. If there’s hair left on the surface, this energy will evaporate on the surface of the skin without reaching the root, Which means the treatment won’t be effective. For this reason all patients asked to shave their hair before treatment. The night before is the optimal time.

Myth: Laser hair removal is only for women?

Truth: Male patients seek laser hair removal as well as female patients. Laser works well on corse dark hair so males can achieve amazing results on their faces and bodies, helping to prevent shaving rashes, irritation and ingrowing hairs.

Myth: Laser hair removal is expensive?

Truth: When compared to the alternatives like waxing over a life time, laser hair removal is actually more affordable than prospective clients think, and there is no downtime waiting for the hair to grow back between sessions, you can shave and be hair free whilst waiting for you next session unlike waxing.

Myth: The laser will burn me?

Truth: As long as you are getting it done by a trained professional it is very rare burning will happen if the client is following pre and aftercare laser advise, laser burning is also very superficial so won’t leave lasting damage to the skin In the unlikely event this has happened.

Myth: Laser is safe for everyone?

Truth: Although laser is a very safe and effective treatment not everyone is suitable for laser this might be due to certain medications or conditions that may make you more sensitive to the laser, this is why a full consultation will be carried out to assess if you are best suited for laser before treatment is carried out.

Myth: Laser works on blonde hair?

Truth: Laser can only work on hair with pigmentation, so blonde and white hairs will not be reduced or removed.

Myth: I can go straight to gym after my session?

Truth: Skip the gym for 12-24 hours after
treatment as this may cause skin irritation, your hair follicles will be extremely sensitive after treatment, by sweating and increasing your body temperature you risk inflammation to your hair follicles. Body sweat also contains bacteria which could again result in rash or infection.

Myth: Lasers cause cancer?

Truth: Laser light does not contain wavelengths that trigger cancers.

We hope this has cleared up a few things for you, we look forward to seeing you in the clinic for your consultation, where we can chat some more.

It is always exciting but potentially for some nerve racking when considering whether to have laser hair removal. Hopefully we can outline below what to expect and why there is no need to be nervous.

Laser hair removal works with light being absorbed by melanin, the  pigment in the hair follicle without damaging the surrounding cells. 

What to expect? 

Laser hair removal is a non-invasive treatment. The lasers we use are pain-free so during the session you won’t feel anything. We use the revolutionary Motus AY which has a pain free moveo setting.

Afterwards, it’s rare that you’ll experience any symptoms but we do advise that you avoid exposing the skin to sunlight until after your treatment course has finished.  Appropriate sunscreen is also advised because your skin will be more sensitive to any sun exposure,  no matter the weather.  

How does it feel? 

The laser we use works by heating the hair follicle up and breaking it down. This means the hair cannot grow back in the follicle, causing  long-lasting results and meaning you will no longer waste time shaving or waxing. 

What does the treatment include? 

Prior to treatment, you will have a consultation in which medical history is taken to confirm suitability  for treatment. This is also a good opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have.

Before treatment commences you must provide written consent and a small patch test will be carried out. 

How many treatments are necessary. 

We create a personalised package guided by your skin & hair type to achieve the best results. Only hair that is actively growing is affected, therefore a series of treatments are needed. Treatment  is conducted every 4-8 weeks, depending on the area treated, until results are clear.

The required  number of treatments varies. However, we will guide you through this process every step of the way.  Typically 8 or more treatments are needed for optimum results. 

WHAT CAN LASER HAIR REMOVAL BE USED FOR? 

Reasons for getting laser hair removal are personal but some of the most common laser  hair removal treatments are: 

Cosmetic preferences – long-lasting, smooth skin 

Excessive hair growth 

Younger Looking Skin 

To Avoid shaving and waxing

WHERE CAN LASER HAIR REMOVAL BE CARRIED OUT?

The most common areas that people want to remove hair from include: 

The face, upper lip & chin

Chest 

Legs 

Arms and underarms

Bikini lines 

Hair Laser Removal is also done here FOR MEN – Where Exactly? 

Back 

Neck 

Shoulders 

Bottom Chest 

Stomach 

Ears & Face 

We can also treat under 18’s with the consent of a parent/guardian  – please enquire for further details.

Why is my hair growing back faster after laser?

This topic can get somewhat technical so please tell me if I haven’t explained this well and we can try a video blog as well to get a better understanding.

This is NOT uncommon, and I will get into the reasons why, but first we need to understand how the hair growth process works to determine why it grows back quicker.

The hair grows from a hair follicle, think of the follicle like a tight knit sleeping bag, it is warm and provides the support for the hair.

As the hair grows this is called the anagen phase, it is using nutrients and amino acids called keratin to become stronger and able to push through the dermal layer. At anyone time you can have between 15-20% of your hairs in this phase, this is the best phase for laser hair removal as the hair absorbs the laser energy as heat and this transmits down to the hair follicle (sleeping bag) and heats up the follicle which destroys it.

Now you would think well if the follicle were destroyed shouldn’t the hair just fall out?

Well unfortunately not as it is still anchored in the dermal layer and will be pushed out further over the next 30-60 days which is why after that session it can appear that there is more hair growth, but it is simply the dead hairs being pushed out and coming to the surface.

These will fall out on their own. You can shave them but do NOT pluck or use hair removal cream as this will interrupt the process.

Hopefully that explains the process and why there is often more hair growth after laser hair removal. If not give me a call and I can go through it.

Can you see results after one session of laser hair removal?

When we talk about results, our clients usually want soft, smooth skin and be able to see that after the sessions. After just one session this is unlikely, but we do often hear that our clients haven’t noticed as much growth and haven’t needed to shave as much. This is a great sign and we always look forward to seeing where they will be at session eight as this is where a lot of change happens.

If you would like to find out more about our laser hair removal introductory offer then please call 01932 553118

Is Brazilian laser hair removal embarrassing?

This is the most popular area to have laser hair removal for our clients. You are going on holiday and don’t want to worry about your bikini line whilst you are away.

It is very easy to do and pain free with our new Motus AY machine; the first painless hair removal machine in Surrey. If you don’t believe us, then come in for a free patch test!

We appreciate that coming in for this type of treatment might feel daunting. This is why we want to ensure you feel comfortable from the start. We take the time to do a full consultation first to understand what your goals are and explain to you the nature of the treatment and what to expect. We will show you around the clinic and answer any questions that you may have. 

Lasering the bikini area is actually the most popular area we treat here at SLC. Our expert clinicians are therefore trained and experienced in delivering this treatment and ensuring the best results.  Nothing phases them so please do not be worried or embarrassed.  Our clinicians have treated thousands of women over the past three years here at SLC. They just want you to feel confident and happy in your own body!

You can keep your underwear on, or we can offer some disposable alternatives which can be maneuvered to ensure we get the best coverage – whatever you feel most comfortable with.

Is it safe to laser your pubic hair?

Absolutely, we just need to do a thorough initial examination to understand what skin and hair type you have, to ensure we apply the correct settings. The pubic area is more sensitive, so we use a lower intensity on the laser.

Afterwards, it is important to follow the technicians’ instructions. There may be some redness or itching, this is normal and a good response. It means the laser has done its work and has effectively broken down the hair follicles to prevent them from growing back giving you that all-year-round smooth bikini line.

How painful is pubic laser hair removal?

We have two types of laser, the first is our pain free laser using the Moveo handpiece, this will feel like a cooling fan over your skin. The second is our Nd:Yag laser which is more traditional and you will feel some sensation on the skin. We will discuss which is more suitable for you at your initial skin consultation. 

If you would like to find out more about our laser hair removal introductory offer then please call 01932 553118

Why can’t you go to the gym after laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal has been one of the greatest innovations to grace the cosmetic market and it continues to get better and improve and the results speak for themselves.

The safety has improved, the fact we can now treat darker skin where we couldn’t before, and the downtime has improved with the technology.

However, there are still some drawbacks we I cannot see changing due to the nature of how the treatment is performed.

We still do not recommend our clients go and do exercise immediately after having laser hair removal, go out in the sun or have hot showers.

Why? Well, the reason is the treated areas of the skin may become sensitive and temporarily irritated. This is because the laser targets and damages the hair follicles, leading to inflammation and redness.

The heat from the laser also causes the surrounding skin to become warmer, so you need to let it cool properly, going to the gym will raise your body temperature and can cause the temperature of the skin to increase.

Engaging in intense exercise or going to the gym immediately after the treatment can exacerbate these side effects or cause discomfort.

Sweat, heat, and friction may further irritate the skin, leading to potential skin damage. It is generally recommended by our technicians and Lynton to avoid activities that may increase perspiration or friction on the treated area for 24 hours after laser hair removal to allow the skin to heal properly.

Can you go in a hot shower or sauna after laser hair removal?

No ideally a colder shower, perhaps not ice cold. But not a hot shower as the skin is hot, putting more heat on it can increase the inflammation and redness and take more time for the skin to settle down.

Just think cold, cold, cold. Easy in the summer but not so good in the winter, we are sorry. We will continue to try and improve the advances in our technology and keep up to date with the changes and if something comes up, we will let you know.

If you would like to find out more about our laser hair removal introductory offer then please call 01932 553118

How does laser hair removal work?

This is probably one of the most important questions to ask. A lot of our clients are not to interested in this and are only focused on the end results; this is also fine. But the more you can understand the process from a technician stance the more knowledge you have and the better results you can get in the long term if you know what we are looking for.

It doesn’t need to be a technical explanation but sometimes it can go that way so please reach out to us if it doesn’t make sense.

The way we work is by using a medical grade laser called the Motus AY, it is one of the first pain free lasers on the market. It uses a specific wavelength of laser light which when applied to the skin will heat up the hair. The melanin, which is a pigment in the hair, absorbs the heat and transfers this heat down the hair to the base of the hair.

At the base of the hair is something called a follicle, this is the root of the hair where it is grown from. Think of the follicle as a base for the hair to grow from, the laser energy heats up the follicle from the hair and ultimately destroys the follicle. This means that no more hair can grow out of this follicle.

This is permanent hair reduction, and that hair will never grow back. The body will develop new follicles over time but once our clients go through a laser hair removal course, we see them for maintenance every year or even every two years.

The hair needs to be in something called Anagen, this is the growth phase and at any time only 15% of the hairs are in the anagen phase which is why it can take 8-12 sessions to get the results we desire.

Does laser remove 100% hair?

It does 100% remove hair but as mentioned above, the body will develop new follicles which can grow new hairs. The time it takes to develop a new follicle is many months often years, so you will notice a huge reduction in your maintenance.

How long does laser hair removal last after 10 sessions?

This depends on the person, the skin type and hair colour but you will be looking at maintenance every year to two years. Which is not a lot, many of our clients say they don’t even shave in between their maintenance sessions.

If you would like to find out more about our laser hair removal introductory offer then please call 01932 553118