The best time of the year for laser hair removal is – wait for it – the winter. That’s because for laser hair removal to work best you will probably need to have multiple sessions that are spaced apart.
You might not be considering laser hair removal while spending most of the off-season indoors, cosy under a blanket. However, this downtime during the colder months is actually perfect for planning your laser hair removal sessions. This is precisely the time to start thinking about it. It may seem unconventional, but let us explain why it's the ideal time to begin your journey to smooth, hair-free skin.
When to Start Laser Hair Removal
Winter downtime, when your legs haven’t seen a razor in weeks, is the perfect time to start laser hair removal. Beginning now makes the hair removal process more efficient, ensuring that by the time summer arrives, you’ll be gloriously fuzz-free and ready to show off your smooth, hair-free skin. This way, you can spend more time on important stuff like sunbathing, chilling at the pool bar, and taking a dip in the sea.
When Should I Get Laser Hair Removal?
Planning your laser hair removal sessions ahead of time is essential, especially if you have a beach holiday booked. Let’s say you need four treatments, and you’re heading to Ibiza in the second week of August.
Here’s how you could schedule your sessions for optimal results (and if you start earlier, you might even squeeze in a fifth session for even better results):
- Session 1: Second week of February
- Session 2: Last week of March
- Session 3: Second week of May
- Session 4: Last week of June or early July
Wondering, “When can I go into the sun after laser hair removal?” Don’t worry, we’ve factored that in too. We recommend that you leave a period of two weeks between your last laser hair treatment and sun exposure.
This two-week cooling-off period allows your skin to heal properly and minimises any potential pigmentation issues. Once that time is up, you can slather on the SPF sun protection cream and soak up some Vitamin D!
This is just an example, the best way to confirm how many laser treatments you will require before jetting off into the sun is with a free Este Medical UK laser hair removal consultation.
And we’d be remiss if we didn’t emphasise that wearing high SPF sunscreen year-round is the best way to keep your skin looking young and radiant. Plus, it’s crucial for protecting your skin from pigmentation issues.
When To Have Laser Hair Removal?
Our hair goes through three phases of growth, as part of a cycle: active growth, resting, and shedding. While this sounds straightforward, there's a catch — each hair can be in a different phase at any given time. This means that during one hair removal session, some hairs might be growing, while others are resting or shedding.
To effectively target all hairs, laser hair removal treatments should be spread out. This timing ensures that each hair is treated during its growth phase, which is when the laser is most effective. If a hair isn’t growing during one session, the laser won't target it. However, in a few weeks, when that hair is in its growth phase, the laser can successfully eliminate it.
By spacing out your treatments and targeting each hair multiple times, you'll achieve optimal hair removal results. After completing your course of hair laser treatments, you can say ‘bye bye’ to unwanted hair and hello to silky smooth skin.
Book your 1st laser hair removal session with Este Medical today!
How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
Winter is an ideal time to start laser hair removal because most of us aren't as concerned about keeping up with at-home hair removal during the colder months.
Before you begin laser hair removal, it's important to avoid plucking or waxing the area you want treated for at least six weeks. This is because these methods remove the hair from the root, which needs to be intact for the laser to be effective. You should also avoid bleaching your hair, as the laser relies on the hair's pigment to work.
Successful laser hair removal depends on the root of the hair being intact, allowing the laser to penetrate the hair follicle and eliminate it at its base. At Este Medical, we ensure you're fully informed about all the necessary preparations to maximise the results of your laser hair removal treatment.
Sun & Laser Hair Removal
If you're planning a beach holiday or thinking about sunbathing before or after your laser hair treatment, it's vital to understand how sun exposure can affect the process. The best advice for those undergoing laser hair removal is to limit sun exposure and avoid sunbathing.
Here are key points to consider:
- Avoid the Sun Before Treatment: It's especially important to avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks before your laser hair removal session. This helps to minimise the risk of burns and hyperpigmentation.
- Use Broad-Spectrum SPF: Make sure to wear a broad-spectrum SPF for the week leading up to your treatment, even if you have darker skin. This protects your skin from harmful UV rays and ensures the treatment's effectiveness.
- No Sunburned Skin: Do not undergo laser hair removal if your skin is sunburned. The procedure should only be performed on healthy skin to avoid complications.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smoother and safer laser hair removal experience.
When To Stop Laser Hair Removal
Determining when to stop laser hair removal is a personal decision that varies for each individual. There is no universal answer because hair characteristics differ in:
- Growth rate
- Thickness
- Density
- Colour
Personal preferences also play a role. One person may aim for completely hair-free legs, while another might be satisfied with reducing hair growth or targeting only dark, coarse hairs while leaving lighter, finer ones.
After your initial series of treatments, you may need follow-up sessions every few months to maintain the results.
Starting your laser hair removal sessions in the off-season is perfect for ensuring you’re ready for summer. Imagine the convenience and confidence of putting on your bikini without worrying about stray hairs or the hassle of shaving.
Contact Este UK today to begin your laser hair removal journey and achieve smooth, hair-free skin just in time for summer or your next holiday in the sun!
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