Laser Hair Removal in Oklahoma City, OK

Laser hair removal can be used on these areas:

• Face (upper lip, chin, sideburns)
• Legs (upper and lower legs)
• Arms and underarms
• Bikini area and Brazilian
• Back and chest
• Neck and shoulders

Sensitive areas, like the face and bikini line, are commonly treated, but may require more caution due to the skin’s sensitivity.

Follow these tips before your appointment:

• Shave the area to be treated 24 hours before your appointment, as this reduces the risk of burns from the laser targeting long hairs.
• Avoid sun exposure, tanning, and self-tanning products for at least two weeks before treatment.
• Do not pluck or wax the hair for four to six weeks before treatment, because you do not want to remove the hair follicle, which is needed for the laser to work.
• Avoid products with active ingredients like retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids on the treatment area for two to three days before.
• Cleanse your skin thoroughly before your appointment, avoiding makeup, lotions, and deodorants.

The duration of each session depends on the treatment area:

• Small areas like the upper lip may take 5-10 minutes.
• Medium areas, such as the bikini line or underarms, typically take about 20-30 minutes.
• Larger areas, including the legs, chest, or back, may take 45 minutes to an hour.

Shaving between laser hair removal sessions is actually encouraged, as this does not affect the hair follicle, which is targeted by the laser. However, avoid plucking, waxing, or tweezing.

You may start to see noticeable results after your first session, with some hair shedding within one to three weeks. Most people see a significant reduction in hair after three to six sessions.

After a laser hair removal session, avoid the following:

• Sun exposure for at least two weeks. Wear sunscreen if you need to go outside.
• Hot showers, saunas, and intense exercise for 24-48 hours, as heat can irritate the treated area.
• Tight clothing that may rub or irritate the treated skin.
• Scrubbing or exfoliating the area for a few days to prevent irritation.
• Scented products and makeup on the treated area for 24 hours.

Hormonal imbalances can influence laser hair removal's effectiveness. Here are some examples:

• Increased Hair Growth: Hormonal imbalances can stimulate dormant hair follicles to grow. This can lead to new hair in treated areas even after laser sessions.
• Resistance to Treatment: Hair growth driven by hormonal changes may be more persistent. As a result, some individuals may need extra sessions.
• Ongoing Maintenance: Patients with hormonal imbalances often need more frequent maintenance appointments.

If you suspect hormonal issues, consult a healthcare provider to address the underlying cause. This can enhance the outcomes of laser hair removal. Inform your laser technician about any hormonal conditions as well. This can help them tailor the treatment plan for better results.

Laser hair removal is generally considered safe if performed by a qualified professional, like those at Opal Aesthetics. Still, there are potential side effects to be aware of:

• Redness and Irritation: Redness, swelling, or discomfort in the treated area, comparable to a mild sunburn, is common. It generally resolves within a few hours to days.
• Skin Sensitivity: Treated skin may feel tender or sensitive to touch for a short time after the session.
• Pigmentation Changes: Temporary hyperpigmentation (dark spots) or hypopigmentation (light spots) can occur. This is more common in people with darker skin tones or those with recent sun exposure.
• Itching or Dryness: Some people may experience mild itching or dry skin post-treatment.

Rare but possible risks include:

• Burns or Blisters: If the laser settings are too high, there's a possibility of burns, blisters, or scarring.
• Infections: While rare, improper aftercare could lead to skin infections.
• Changes in Hair Growth: In some cases, laser treatment can trigger paradoxical hypertrichosis (increased hair growth) in the treated area or nearby.

Most side effects are temporary and mild. Discuss any medical conditions, medications, or concerns with your provider beforehand to reduce risks.

Laser hair removal is not recommended for tattooed skin. 

The laser used during the hair removal session targets melanin (pigment) in hair follicles. Tattoos contain pigment, which can attract the laser's energy.

The laser may also absorb into the tattoo's pigment. This could cause:

• Fading or distortion of the tattoo.
• Skin burns, blistering, or scarring in the tattooed area.

The laser cannot differentiate well between tattoo pigment and hair pigment. This makes the treatment ineffective in tattooed areas.

Inform your technician about any tattoos near the treatment area. A skilled provider can work around tattoos and increase safety.

Laser hair removal, waxing, and electrolysis are all popular hair removal methods. However, they differ in effectiveness, longevity, comfort, and cost. Here's a comparison:

• Laser hair removal: It offers long-term hair reduction with quick sessions and moderate discomfort. It is ideal for larger areas and is more cost-effective over time.
• Waxing: It is a temporary, affordable method with results lasting 3–6 weeks. It requires frequent upkeep and can be painful.
• Electrolysis: It provides FDA-approved permanent hair removal by targeting individual follicles. It is suitable for all hair and skin types. It is also more time-consuming and expensive, especially for large areas.