Top 5 Questions to Answer Before You Begin Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a very effective method for removing unwanted hair when performed correctly. The answers to these common questions will help you determine if you’re a good candidate for laser hair removal.
How Old Are You?
X Under 16
It's too soon! You’re too young to determine whether or not laser hair removal would be able to help you say goodbye to unwanted hair forever. Most places require you to be at least 16 years old to be eligible for laser hair removal treatments.
√ 16-18
You may need permission! Laser hair removal might be a good solution to your unwanted hair, but some places might require a parent or guardian’s consent in order for you to receive laser hair removal treatments.
√ Over 18
You’re eligible! You can consent to begin laser hair removal treatments on your own. At this point, the color of your unwanted hair and your natural skin tone are key factors to consider.
What Color Is The Hair You Want To Remove?
√ Red or Blonde
It’s very likely that you can be treated! It’s a common misconception that people with blonde or red hair won’t benefit from laser hair removal. The truth is that laser hair removal will work on most people with blonde or red hair as long as the hair has some pigment and isn’t “bleach blonde” or “platinum” in color. If you’re not sure, the best thing to do is to complete a consultation with an expert who has experience treating these hair colors. They will be able to tell you if there’s enough pigment in your hair for you to be treated.
X White
Unfortunately, you’re not a good candidate. As someone with white body hair, you are most likely not a good candidate for laser hair removal. During treatments, the laser works by targeting the pigment in the hair follicle. Hair that does not have any pigment such as “peach fuzz” or “pure white” hair will not respond to laser hair removal treatments.
√ Gray
It’s a possibility! Gray hair is well, a gray area in terms of laser hair removal. You’ll want to complete a consultation with an expert to determine exactly how much pigment is left for the laser to target.
√ All Other Colors
You’re eligible! It looks like you have dark body hair which responds well to laser hair removal treatments..
What Is Your Natural Skin Tone?
√ Pale White to Light Brown Skin
You’re eligible! Laser hair removal will be a great option for you. You’ll most likely want to have your treatments completed somewhere that utilizes Alexandrite laser technology.
√ Olive to Deeply Pigmented, Dark Brown Skin
You’re eligible! Laser hair removal will be a great option for you. You’ll most likely want to have your treatments completed somewhere that utilizes Alexandrite laser technology.
Do you regularly use tanning beds and/or sunbathe?
Yes
Can you handle not tanning for a little while? Laser hair removal may be able to help you say goodbye to unwanted hair forever if you take a temporary break from tanning. That’s because in order to safely perform your laser hair removal treatments most companies need your skin to be it’s natural color in order to choose the correct settings for the laser.
√ No
Great! Your skin is it’s natural color which makes it safe to treat! Avoiding sun exposure and not using tanning beds is a great way to ensure that you can safely begin your laser hair removal treatments.
Are you currently pregnant or plan to become pregnant in the near future?
X Yes
You’ll want to wait to begin your treatments! Laser hair removal might be a great solution to your unwanted hair, but you’ll want to wait to begin your treatments until after you deliver your baby. At that time, you’ll want to consult an expert to determine when to begin your treatments. The great thing is that most places don’t make you complete your treatments by a certain date—or even offer lifetime packages—so if you find a great deal, you can purchase at the discounted price and get treated later.
√ No
You can begin! There’s no reason to wait to being your laser hair removal journey. One thing to keep in mind is that hormone changes associated with a future pregnancy or menopause could lead to new hair growth down the road. For that reason, it’s always a good idea to look for a company that offers unlimited laser hair removal treatments instead of just purchasing a set number of treatments.