WHAT IS LASER HAIR REDUCTION

Laser hair reduction is a cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated beams of light (lasers) to target and reduce unwanted hair growth. It’s one of the most popular long-term hair removal methods—and for good reason. Here’s how it works and what to expect:

 How It Works

  • Targeting pigment: The laser emits light that’s absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair.
  • Heat damage: This light energy converts to heat, damaging the hair follicle to inhibit or delay future growth.
  • Growth cycle matters: It’s most effective during the hair’s active growth phase (anagen), which is why multiple sessions are needed.

 Key Benefits

  • Long-term reduction: While not always permanent, it significantly reduces hair regrowth.
  • Precision: Lasers can selectively target dark, coarse hairs while leaving surrounding skin undamaged.
  • Speed: Each laser pulse takes a fraction of a second and can treat many hairs at once.
  • Less irritation: Compared to shaving or waxing, it can reduce ingrown hairs and skin irritation over time.

 Things to Know

  • Multiple sessions: Typically, 8-10treatments spaced weeks apart are needed for the best results.
  • Skin & hair type: Works best on people with light skin and dark hair, though newer technologies are improving outcomes for a wider range of tones.
  • Not instant: Results build gradually—don’t expect to walk out hair-free after one session.
  • Sun sensitivity: You’ll need to avoid sun exposure before and after treatments to prevent skin damage.

HAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IPL AND LASER TECHNOLOGY?

We proudly offer BOTH IPL and Laser services, tailored to meet your skin and beauty needs. Let’s read the brief description for difference to clear the confusion.

While both IPL and Laser technology are used to reduce hair growth, the difference is in the type of light that is used.

Laser utilizes a single and focused wavelength of light to target the hair follicles at a specific depth. In contrast, IPL utilizes a wide beam of multiple wavelengths that pulse down through the skin to target follicles at multiple depths.

As well as having the ability to cover a larger area of hair in a shorter time, our IPL devices can also be adjusted to specifically match different skin and hair types; allowing us to personally customize the most suitable treatment settings for your individual needs.

Furthermore, the broad-spectrum light produced by our state-of-the-art, medical grade IPL systems are also effective in treating a variety of different skin concerns, such as pigmentation, age spots and freckles as well superficial thread veins, spider veins and general skin rejuvenation. Click here for more information on our IPL Skin Rejuvenation treatments.

Laser hair reduction aftercare is all about soothing your skin, preventing irritation, and protecting your results. Here’s a simple guide to help your skin heal beautifully:

Pre-treatment Advice

2 Days Before Treatment

  • Shave the area: Use a clean razor to shave the treatment area 24–48 hours before your appointment. This helps the laser target the follicle beneath the skin without burning surface hair.
  • Avoid waxing or plucking: These remove the hair root, which the laser needs to target. Stick to shaving only.
  • Clean skin only: No lotions, deodorants, perfumes, or makeup on the day of treatment.

 1–2 Weeks Before

  • Stay out of the sun: Avoid tanning beds and direct sun exposure. Tanned or sunburned skin increases the risk of burns and pigmentation issues.
  • Skip self-tanners: These can interfere with the laser’s ability to detect your natural skin tone and hair pigment.

 Medications & Skin Products

  • Pause retinoids and acids: Stop using retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid products on the area at least 3–5 days before treatment.
  • Check your meds: Some medications (like antibiotics or acne treatments) can make your skin more sensitive to light. Let your technician know what you’re taking.

 Optional: Patch Test

  • Do a patch test: Especially if it’s your first time or you have sensitive skin, a patch test 24–48 hours before can help avoid surprises.

Post-care Advice 

 First 24–48 Hours

  • Cool it down: Apply a cold compress or ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) to reduce redness and swelling.
  • Skip the heat: Avoid hot showers, saunas, and intense workouts that cause sweating.
  • No touching or picking: Let the skin breathe—don’t scratch or exfoliate.

 Ongoing Care

  • Moisturise gently: Use a fragrance-free, soothing lotion like aloe vera or a post-laser cream (e.g., Skinstitut™ Laser Aid) to calm the skin.
  • Cleanse softly: Wash with a mild, non-irritating cleanser and pat dry—no scrubbing!
  • Sun protection is a must: Apply SPF 30+ daily to prevent pigmentation and protect sensitive skin.

 What to Avoid

  • No waxing, plucking, or depilatory creams between sessions—only shaving is allowed.
  • Avoid makeup or perfumed products on the treated area for at least 24 hours.
  • Stay out of the sun for at least 1–2 weeks post-treatment.