Whether you’re the bride-to-be, maid of honor, a bridesmaid or even the groom, laser hair removal before a wedding ensures you’ll be at your silky smooth best on the big day. But there are a few things you need to know before going for laser hair removal treatments.
It’s all about the preparation, for starters. Laser hair removal isn’t a magical silver bullet. It’s a process and you play an important part in making the whole operation go well, emerging a smooth, hairless work of art!
So, in the interest of getting you to that delightful state, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about getting laser hair removal before a wedding this spring.
Yup. You need to shave.
Because laser hair removal addresses the hair follicles just under the skin, it’s not like waxing. Waxing demands that you have some hair growth to work with. That’s not the case with laser hair removal, so show up shaved for your first appointment.
But if you’ve been waxing, you need to stop at least three weeks before your appointment.
PRO-TIP: laser hair removal converts light to heat, which addresses the pigment (coloration) of your follicles. What happens next is that the hair follicles are molecularly changed by the light, making them less able to grow.
No sun for you!
Sorry, sun worshippers. If you’re a fan of tanning, you’ll need to put your ritualistic adoration aside for at least four weeks prior to laser hair removal. That’s why starting laser hair removal during the cooler months is a good plan of action.
And sorry again, but no tanning beds, spray tanning or self-tanners allowed either. You’ll be pale, but just think how great you’re going to look as a hairless sixty-year-old! As we said above, laser hair removal isn’t fairy dust. It’s a process and you need to plan for it.
There’s a test.
A responsible laser hair removal technician will spot test your skin for its suitability. Not all skin types react well to laser hair removal, so you’ll have to pass the test before proceeding.
Nothing personal! You need to know that some people can have adverse reactions and those don’t spell “smooth and silky for the big day”. Think of the patch test as your best friend.
Patience is a virtue.
And we’re back to that magical silver bullet. You’ll need about six sessions, lasting anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour to get those follicles in line. Guys, if you’re ridding yourselves of back hair, your sessions will take a little longer. Quickies include underarms and the bikini area, because they’re small.
Expect the process of laser hair removal to be a commitment and know that follicles are governed by hormones, so you may need the odd touch up. Plan to attend a session every four to six weeks.
Finally, contact Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness for a free consultation. We’ll get you smooth for the big day.