SMOOTH, HAIR-FREE SKIN FOR SUMMER – YOUR LAST CHANCE TO GET LASER HAIR REMOVAL
It’s March, and this month we officially enter spring which means summer is only 3 months away. At RR Skin, Body and Laser Clinic in Kent we recommend using laser hair removal and IPL to perfect the look and feel of the skin. As this treatment requires a course of procedures that usually takes a few months to complete, it may be your last chance to achieve smooth, vibrant, hair-free skin for summer.
What is laser hair removal & IPL?
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light and is a therapeutic treatment that can address common issues on the face and body. When rejuvenating the appearance of the skin, it targets a range of conditions, including: acne, pigmentation, age spots, fine lines, rosacea and thread veins. When looking to remove areas of unwanted hair, IPL can achieve great results on areas such as: underarms, bikini line and legs. RR Skin, Body and Laser Clinic uses the Ellipse Multiflex+ device which is one of the most effective devices on the market. There are a range of applications to choose from, depending on which part of the face or body we’re treating, and the specific concern we’re addressing.
How does laser hair removal & IPL work?
During your consultation we’ll establish which concern(s) are to be treated. IPL scatters many different wavelengths of light over the surface of the skin which also gets absorbed down to the dermis (the second layer of the skin). When the light waves hit the skin’s surface they create enough heat to stimulate the fibres and naturally induce the production of new collagen. Vascular lesions and pigmented cells will absorb the light which also converts to heat, destroying the pigmented cell. As hair is also pigmented (contains a natural colouring – melanin), the follicles will attract the lightwaves. Like the pigmented cells, heat energy will damage the follicles where unwanted hair is growing. This will cause the hair to fall out and prevent a new one from being produced.
The Ellipse Multiflex+ contains Selective Waveband and Square Pulse technologies which improve the experience for the patient. The skin is not allowed to overheat which eliminates the need for additional cooling, making it safer and much more comfortable.
Depending on your specific goals RR Skin, Body and Laser Clinic may recommend between 3 and 10 sessions, carried out every 2-4 weeks.
Is there any pre / post treatment advice?
Laser hair removal and IPL works best on untanned skin which is why this is the best time of year to get it. Therefore, it’s important that you avoid prolonged sun exposure in the run-up to your treatment and ensure you protect your skin with a high SPF (30 / 50+) when going outside. You may need to stop taking any medications 2 weeks before your appointment, which will most definitely apply to medication containing retinoids as this increases the skin’s sensitivity. If you’re undergoing laser hair removal the follicle will need to remain in place so we strongly advise that waxing and plucking hairs does not occur, and shaving the area is best.
For a few weeks after the treatment the skin will be a little more sensitive than usual, and more open to irritation. Therefore, we advise you to avoid exfoliating the skin, and bathing in hot water. Skincare products should be gentle and unscented, and continuing the use of a high SPF will protect the skin from damage by the sun.
What are the benefits of laser hair removal & IPL?
The effects of laser hair removal & IPL will start to take place straight after the first treatment session. However, as the processes involved will work gradually, the outcome will also take some time to emerge – usually 1-3 weeks. The recommended course will produce optimal results which can often be seen 2 weeks after the final treatment session.
When rejuvenating the skin, you’ll begin to notice the development of softer fine lines, a smoother surface and a complexion that’s more even in tone.
Hair removal will also happen gradually and a series of procedures are needed to ensure each follicle has been targeted. You’ll need to allow the natural hair growth cycle to take its course with regards to hairs falling out, and each patient experiences around 10-25% less hair growth between sessions. At the end of your treatment course, the skin will feel softer and smoother, and waxing / shaving can become a thing of the past.
To find out more about laser hair removal and IPL contact the clinic