Clients could see up to 90% reduction in hair growth from laser hair removal, and any hair that does grow back will grow back much slower and be finer and lighter. You’ll also have smoother skin, the risk of ingrown hairs will be dramatically reduced, and you’ll no longer have the stubble or rashes associated with frequent waxing or shaving.
However, the success of your treatment is dependent on the colour of hair being treated and how many sessions you have. Clients with darker hair will get the best results, but those with white, blonde, grey or red hair will not see as effective results as there is not enough pigment in the hair to attract the laser.
Hair growth is also impacted by many factors including hormonal changes, so top up treatments after you’ve completed your course are sometimes needed to ensure you get the longest lasting results.
With enough sessions at the right intervals, you’re likely to see permanent hair reduction and you may never have to shave or wax again.
What is the difference between laser hair removal and IPL?
Laser: The energy emitted from a laser is a pure single colour focused light, which travels at the same wavelength in a straight line. Lasers are able to differentiate between skin and hair pigment, and because the light is pure, it is more accurate when it is absorbed by certain colours, so you can see better results, faster. All skin types can also be treated with laser hair removal thanks to the different wavelengths available. At sk:n our advanced clinical lasers can be calibrated to suit your skin type, meaning that whatever your hair or skin colour, laser is safe.
IPL: Intense pulsed light therapy produces a variety of light waves, travelling at different wavelengths in all directions, a little like the light from a bulb. This means the light is less powerful and accurate than a laser. Success with IPL is very much dependent on technique, it’s typically less effective and can take a lot longer to achieve desired results than with laser.
What skin types can be treated with laser hair removal?
At sk:n, we conduct a full consultation which includes a thorough assessment of skin and hair type, medical history and reasons for treatment.
We also carry out a test patch on a small, representative area of skin to ensure we have selected the right wavelength and strength of laser or laser parameters, and your skin is suitable.
The laser is attracted to the pigment in the follicle of the hair, avoiding skin pigment, and this is how the hair growth reduces. Depending on your skin type, a different laser wavelength will be chosen. Alexandrite 755nm lasers are the shortest, best used on lighter skin and thinner hair. Darker skin types need a longer wavelength to avoid the laser targeted the surface skin pigment rather than the hair follicle. This is why Nd:YAG 1064nm is the best and safest option for darker skin.
At sk:n, we use the Fitzpatrick scale to determine skin type and will discuss the results you can expect from treatment during your consultation, and which laser we will select for you.
Preparing for laser hair removal
Before laser hair removal treatment you should ensure that the area is clean, hair has been removed by shaving (not waxing) and that all make-up is also removed. You should also not have had any sun exposure or have a tan two weeks before treatment, and you shouldn’t wear fake tan either. We are also unable to treat clients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, so please let us know if you are beforehand.
How do I book laser hair removal at sk:n?
Step 1
Book your free consultation. You can book online, call us directly or request a consultation. To secure a laser hair removal appointment, we will require a refundable deposit of £25. Please refer to our terms and conditionsfor more information.
Step 2
Visit your local sk:n clinic for a consultation with one of our medical laser hair removal practitioners. During this consultation the practitioner will:
- Assess the area you would like to be treated and discuss the results you’re likely to see.
- Explain the procedure for laser hair removal, the cost and your recommended aftercare.
- Give you a quick patch test to assess suitability for treatment.
- Answer any questions you have regarding laser hair removal.
Step 3
Start treatment with the UK’s leading laser hair removal specialists.
