Let’s face it; shaving isn’t exactly fun. Most people think of it as a necessary evil for the perfectly smooth skin you want. But are the cuts, ingrown hairs, and back pain from leaning in weird positions really worth it?

Altogether, if you’re spending 15 minutes (or more) shaving three or four times a week, that means annually you’re spending over 50 hours with a razor–more than an average workweek for most people. So, if you’re ready to throw out your razor for good, laser hair removal could be the answer.

But, how can you be sure laser hair removal’s right for you? Here are the four main things that affect the success of this groundbreaking procedure, as recommended by our experts here at M Spa Face and Body.

1. Hair Color and Skin Tone

Laser hair removal works best on patients with lighter skin tones and dark, coarse hair. New technologies have made significant steps forward in terms of treating patients of all skin tones. However, patients with light skin and dark hair still see the best results on average.

If you have particularly fine or soft hair, the laser may be less efficient in targeting and locating melanin within the hair follicles, which is necessary for this treatment to work. Before you make a considerable commitment to laser hair removal, be sure to talk with your doctor about your hair type and skin tone. That way, we can provide you with the best options available.

2. Following a Treatment Plan

Most people’s hair grows in phases, so at any given time, hair in different parts of your body may be at different places in their growth cycle. This is why it’s critical to schedule follow-up sessions at regular intervals for at least 18 months.

A single treatment won’t deal with the root of your issue. Generally, our patients reach a clinical endpoint in under two years. From then on, you’ll be hair-free.

3. Avoiding Sun Exposure and Tanning

For our sunbathing loving patients, we strongly recommend wearing daily sunblock of at least 30 SPF or higher. If you’re outdoors, you should continually reapply every few hours to avoid burning or tanning.

It’s also important to avoid tanning beds for at least six weeks prior to treatment, and several weeks following. If harmful UV rays have recently damaged your skin, your risk of scarring, skin damage, or burns during a laser hair treatment increases.

While we always advise sunscreen, it’s a good idea to avoid tanning beds all together to ensure your skin looks healthy and youthful for years to come.

4. Prepping for Laser Hair Removal

During your initial consultation, we’ll give you all the necessary steps for how to prepare your skin for laser hair removal properly. It’s vital that you follow these instructions to the letter.

Generally, we advise patients to shave the intended treatment area one to three days before coming in. It’s also essential to avoid perfumes or lotion on the day you come in. Do not wax or pluck hair before treatment, as this can remove the hair root and follicle, which is needed for the laser to target.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re tired of shaving, plucking, and waxing, laser hair removal could be the answer you’re looking for. By following these simple steps, you’ll considerably increase the likelihood of treatment success.

The best way to learn more about laser hair removal or any of our other offerings is to schedule a consultation at our Webster, TX office. To get in touch, please give us a call at 281.886.7006 or contact us online today.