Ditch the Razor: The Long-Term Benefits of Underarm Laser Treatments
As the temperature rises, tank tops come out of hiding, and underarms are exposed. For many, underarm hair can be an embarrassing nuisance that requires constant shaving, waxing, and plucking.
Razor burn, ingrown hairs, and dark shadowy stubble can put a damper on wearing your favorite sleeveless summer styles. What if you could say goodbye to the hassle of temporary hair removal methods and enjoy weeks of stubble-free, touchably soft underarms?
Underarm laser hair removal offers the freedom to bare your pits without worries. Keep reading to unlock the secrets to achieving smooth, hair-free underarms just in time for summer.
What Is Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
Underarm laser hair removal is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that uses a concentrated beam of laser light to target and damage the root of each individual hair follicle under the arm. The laser disables the follicle’s ability to regrow hair in that spot, leading to permanent hair reduction over a series of treatments.
The Science of Selective Photothermolysis
The technology behind laser hair removal is called selective photothermolysis. This means the laser is attracted to pigment. The laser specifically targets the melanin within hair follicles while avoiding damage to the surrounding skin. When absorbed by the follicle, the laser’s light energy converts to heat energy which essentially burns and destroys the hair.
The Treatment Process
Treatments use a handheld device to deliver rapid pulses of highly concentrated light across the entire underarm area. With each pulse, multiple hairs are treated simultaneously.
The laser is carefully adjusted to the right settings based on your unique skin and hair characteristics to maximize results and safety. Most patients describe the laser pulses as a quick pricking or rubber band-snapping sensation on the skin.
While laser hair removal effectively stops future hair growth, it does not completely eliminate follicles. Results are generally permanent hair reduction, not necessarily permanent hair removal.
How Long Does Underarm Laser Hair Removal Take?
On average, it takes 6 to 8 laser hair removal treatment sessions spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart to fully treat the underarm area. This timing allows for the natural cycle of hair regrowth. Not all hairs are active and growing at the same time.
When the laser targets and destroys the currently active follicles, the ones laying dormant will eventually activate and sprout new growth. A series of treatments is necessary to catch all hair follicles once they enter the active growth stage.
Maintenance sessions are recommended once or twice per year after completing the initial treatment series. This keeps ahead of any newly activated hairs before they have time to grow back thick. Some clients choose monthly or quarterly touch-ups for maximum smoothness.
What Are the Benefits of Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
There are several advantages that make underarm laser hair removal a top choice for keeping your pits primed for tank top season.
Long-lasting Results
After the initial series of treatments, you can enjoy weeks of smooth, stubble-free underarms before maintenance is needed. No more daily shaving ritual!
Reduced Ingrown Hairs
Laser treatments penetrate below the skin’s surface to disable the entire follicle, not just trim the hair above. This prevents the trapped hairs under the skin that cause painful ingrown bumps.
Less Irritation
Harsh razor blades and hot wax often lead to bumps, redness, and itching around the delicate underarm area. Laser treatments are non-invasive, avoiding this trauma to the skin.
Confidence Boost
Free from underarm hair worries, you’ll feel more self-assured going sleeveless. No more panicked checks in the mirror before raising your arms!
Who is a Good Candidate for Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal, while effective, has specific criteria that yield the best results. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand if this treatment might be right for you:
- Skin and Hair Contrast: The most ideal candidate for laser hair removal possesses light skin paired with dense, darkly pigmented hair. The reason? Lasers operate based on the pigment contrast between the hair and the skin, targeting follicles more effectively when there’s a stark difference.
- Best Hair Colors for Treatment: Individuals with black or dark brown coarse hair tend to experience the best outcomes. This hair type has a rich pigment that the laser can easily identify and target.
- Darker Skin Tones: While laser hair removal can be safely administered on all skin tones, it’s pivotal to have an experienced technician at the helm. People with darker skin tones have an elevated risk of side effects, such as hyperpigmentation. Therefore, ensuring that the professional knows how to tweak the treatment settings according to your specific skin type becomes paramount.
- Ineffective on Certain Hair Colors: Laser hair removal has its limitations. If you have blonde, red, gray, or white hair, the procedure might not be fruitful. The reason? These hair colors don’t have enough pigment for the laser to detect.
- Sensitive Skin Considerations: For those who have sensitive skin, there’s good news. Laser hair removal is still an option, provided a numbing cream is applied before the procedure. This ensures comfort throughout the session. Moreover, a seasoned laser technician will finetune the machine’s settings to suit your skin’s specific requirements.
Underarm Laser Hair Removal Risks and Side Effects
When performed correctly by a trained technician, underarm laser hair removal is generally safe with minimal side effects. Still, caution must be taken to avoid the following adverse reactions:
| Risk/ Side Effect | Description | Prevention/ Management |
| Burns | Improper settings or techniques can lead to skin burns. Severe cases may blister or scar. | Ensure the technician is well-trained. Always test a small area before the full treatment. |
| Hyperpigmentation | Particularly in darker skin, there’s a risk of dark patches or discoloration post-treatment. | Test spot treatments are crucial for darker skin tones. Use sunscreen and follow aftercare advice. |
| Skin Irritation | Common symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, and tenderness which typically subside in days. | Apply aloe vera gel or prescribed creams. Avoid scratching or picking the area. |
| Infection | Inadequate aftercare can result in infected hair follicles, leading to pimples or more severe infections. | Follow aftercare instructions rigorously. Clean the area gently and avoid tight clothing. |
Laser hair removal is not advised for those with light sensitivity, active skin infections, open wounds, severe acne, or a history of keloid scarring. Discontinue tanning and photosensitizing drugs before treatment.
Preparing for Your Underarm Laser Hair Removal Treatments
Simple prep work ensures you get the best possible underarm laser hair removal results:
- Halt Hair Removal: Avoid shaving, waxing, or plucking 4 to 6 weeks before treatment to allow the laser to target the follicles effectively.
- Sun and Medication Precautions: Limit sun exposure, consistently apply sunscreen, and discuss any light-sensitive medications with your laser technician.
- Day of Treatment Preparations: Ensure underarms are shaved, clean, and dry. Consider applying a numbing cream 30 minutes prior and avoid caffeine intake, which might increase skin sensitivity.
Underarm Laser Hair Removal Aftercare
- Soothing and Hydration: Use ice packs, aloe vera gel, and moisturizers as recommended to reduce swelling and keep skin hydrated.
- Heat and Pressure Avoidance: Stay away from hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms for 1 to 3 days. Avoid using scrubbing agents like loofahs and wear soft, breathable clothing.
- Protection: Keep the treated area shielded from sun exposure and always use broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen.
- Hair Removal Post-Treatment: Refrain from using hair removal creams, tweezing, or waxing. Only gentle shaving is allowed, avoiding pressure on the treated areas.
- Monitor and Report: Keep an eye out for signs of infection or unusual reactions such as pimples, oozing, or excessive swelling. Contact your technician with any concerns and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
The Bottom Line on Underarm Laser Hair Removal
For flawless underarm confidence when rocking tank tops and sundresses, laser hair removal delivers. A series of treatments can provide permanent hair reduction in the underarm area for smooth, ready-to-bare results.
Find an experienced laser technician to safely perform treatments tailored to your skin type. Follow all pre and post-procedure guidelines to avoid discomfort and side effects. With proper care, laser hair removal can free you from the hassle of temporary hair removal methods so you can show off your underarms with pride.
Achieve Silky Smooth Underarms with Ethos Spa
Experience the unparalleled expertise of Ethos Spa, a leader in non-invasive aesthetic services. Just in time for summer’s sleeveless fashions, start your journey towards permanently smooth underarms. Our professional laser technicians utilize advanced technology, tailoring treatments to your unique needs, ensuring safety and minimal discomfort.
Ready for a transformation? Call or book online today.
