Pros and Cons of Laser Hair Removal Before Your Wedding Day

A wedding day is extraordinary and special. Many brides take this opportunity to reevaluate their feelings toward hair on their bodies and faces. Should they end their relationship with razors and find an alternative way to ensure a life of perpetually smooth upper lips, underarms, and bikini lines? Like getting married, this isn't a choice to be taken carelessly. 

Numerous approaches exist for removing hair, each with pros and cons. The use of lasers for hair removal, however, has been on the rise for years. It's an excellent idea for several reasons. Not only does it remove the hair for good, but it also helps reduce the risk of ingrown hair and future growth by minimizing your hair density. Laser treatment for hair removal is beneficial for sensitive skin and brides who have dark hair, as it reduces the likelihood that new hair will grow back in the same place. Another upside is that it's an affordable and painless process compared to other procedures such as electrolysis or waxing — so what are the downsides? Read on to discover more.

The Basics of Laser Hair Removal

This permanent hair removal procedure uses high-intensity light to target and destroys the hair follicle. It targets the melanin (pigment) in the hair shaft, which is why it is most effective on people with darker hair. You should wait at least six weeks between treatments to give your hair a chance to grow back in total, and you may need more than one session to get rid of all the hair. The machine emits a light beam that passes through the skin and hits the hair shaft. The laser's intense heat kills the cells that make up the hair shaft and reduces the size of the hair follicle, effectively eradicating the possibility of new hair growth in the treated areas.

Is laser removal for you?

Dr. Lawrence Chang of Newark's Nouveau Cosmetic Center comments that "results vary from person to person" when it comes to laser hair removal. The laser targets melanin, the ingredient that gives hair its pigment; thus, the best candidate will have light skin and dark hair. A very pale blonde, on the other hand, may not have the best results.

Things to Know Before You Book Your Appointment

Tan: You should not obtain a tan while undergoing laser treatments because it will lessen the procedure's effectiveness. The same general concept holds true for self-tanning sprays and creams. If you tan, the laser's light won't be able to penetrate as profoundly because there won't be as much of a difference between your hair and skin.

Skin conditions: Do not plan a laser hair removal session if you have a cold sore or an active acne eruption. The laser's heat can aggravate the problem. There may be a tingling sensation for a brief time during the treatment, which will pass shortly. Because laser hair removal only permanently eliminates 70–90% of hair, you must commit to regular upkeep.

Beware of scammers: Be extra careful when choosing a laser hair removal clinic. Scam artists may offer free laser hair removal or heavily discounted deals. Always check to see if the facility has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau before booking. 

Waxing: Don't have any waxing done beforehand: No waxing should be done within two weeks of your laser hair removal appointment. An excellent general rule to follow is to give at least four weeks between waxing and laser hair removal. It is because the hair needs to be at least a quarter of an inch in length to be removed with the laser. If you've waxed the area before your appointment, the hair will be too short for the laser to work correctly.

Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal

Stinging pain: When the laser hits the hair, it generates heat that is transferred to the surrounding skin. Depending on the intensity of the laser, you may feel some burning or stinging sensation. This should go away within a couple of hours. 

Discomfort: While most people describe the feeling as a rubber band snapping against the skin, others may find it more uncomfortable. 

Your provider may give you a mild sedative to help reduce any pain or discomfort.

Hair regrowth in the treated area: Some people experience a few new hairs growing in the area that had been treated. This is a typical sign since it means the laser was effective. However, the hair is likely to be more delicate than those removed.

Pros of Laser Hair Removal

Less frequent waxing sessions: Laser hair removal can last anywhere from six months to two years, which means you'll have fewer recurring appointments, saving time and money. 

No ingrown hairs or red bumps: This is especially useful if you have sensitive skin or if you have any ingrown hairs from waxing. 

No regrowth: Laser hair removal is a long-term hair removal solution that actually removes the hair follicle, so new hairs won't grow back in the treated area. It is advantageous if you have dark hair and want to avoid growing back in the same place as before.

Cons of Laser Hair Removal

Expensive: Laser hair removal is a long-term investment and is one of the most costly hair removal procedures on the market. However, there are plenty of financial options available.

Longer appointment times: Since the laser targets and destroys the hair follicle, the appointment lasts longer than waxing and sugaring. You may experience some stinging pain, and your skin may be red after the meeting.

Unpredictable results: As with any hair removal process, the results are inconsistent and can vary from person to person. It's recommended to go for at least three or four sessions to get results. You may have to maintain the results with regular touchups every few months.

FAQs on laser hair removal:

What to expect after the laser treatment?

After a session with the laser hair remover, you'll be left with a smooth, hairless appearance. There might even be some minor pain and soreness. The treated area will feel warm and look red. After 24 hours, the redness has often faded. Hair growth, or the treated hair emerging from underneath the skin's surface, would occur in the following days.

What is the cost to get your hair removed with a laser?

Numerous variables affect how much money you'll have to shell out for laser hair removal. These include the equipment used, the size of the treatment area, the skill and experience of the doctor doing the procedure, and the convenience of the facility itself. The average cost of this treatment ranges from $50 to $500 per session, with some patients needing more than others.

What is the success rate of laser hair removal?

Results from laser hair removal treatments can range from person to person; therefore, it is more accurately described as a long-term solution to the problem of unwanted hair than as a permanent surgery. The process has two possible outcomes. Either the rate of hair growth would be drastically slowed, or it would be surgically removed altogether. It may also depend on the following:

• Shade of hair
• Hair/skin color/thickness
• Laser Classification System
• Training and experience of the doctor

Final Words

In the long run, laser hair removal can make your skin less sensitive and minimize the number of visits to a salon for hair removal. Nonetheless, you should know that it entails more than a simple procedure like a waxing of the face. Most people need multiple treatments to see results, and some encounter unwanted side effects. Overall, laser hair removal is a good option if you are looking to get rid of unwanted fuzz for good. This article from BridalFusion.com is to help you to know the efficiency of laser treatment if it is correct for you and the benefits and drawbacks of undergoing a laser hair removal treatment right before the big day.