Are you ready for your underarm laser hair removal treatment?

If you’re tired of shaving or waxing your underarms, you’re not alone. Whether this is a daily habit or a monthly scheduled appointment, many adults wish they could get rid of hair under their arms once and for all. Patients in or around Palo Alto, California, can do just that with laser hair removal services available at the Allura Skin & Laser Center.

How does laser hair removal work for underarms?

Laser hair removal is a simple and effective way to remove unwanted body hair. Laser treatment can be used on various areas of the body, including the face, back, neck, chest, legs, bikini line, arms, and underarms. It works by using pulses of light energy to destroy hair follicles. Once the follicles are destroyed, they cannot grow back.

It’s important to note that laser hair removal is only effective when hair is in the growth stage. Hair in the transition or resting stage is not impacted by laser treatment. Because of this, most patients require several sessions to achieve their desired level of hair removal.

What to expect during treatment

Most patients who consider underarm laser hair removal want to know one thing: will it hurt? Not only is the treatment relatively pain-free, but it’s also often over very quickly. Many patients say the treatment is similar to the feeling of being lightly snapped with a rubber band and the procedure itself is over in approximately 15 minutes.

At the beginning of the appointment, a topical anesthetic will be applied to minimize discomfort. Next, a small device will be used to direct laser energy to the underarm. Following treatment, patients should avoid sun exposure. While the underarms don’t typically tan, this is still an important step as the sun’s rays or those from a tanning bed can affect the skin after laser treatment. Additionally, patients should wear comfortable loose clothing and avoid swimming, hot tubs, steam rooms, and strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours.

Results from laser hair removal may take several days to weeks as the hair sheds naturally. Do not worry if you don’t see immediate results.

How to prepare for your laser hair removal appointment

In the days and weeks before your appointment, the Allura Skin & Laser Center advises the following:

• Don’t pluck, wax, or bleach your underarms for two weeks prior to treatment. You can shave the area the night before or the morning of the appointment. This prevents hair on the skin’s surface from absorbing the laser energy and burning the skin.
• Avoid products that contain alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or other products that increase sun sensitivity for several days before the procedure.
• Do not use lotion or deodorant prior to your appointment.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes or consider sleeveless shirts that will not irritate the skin after treatment.

If you’re considering laser hair removal and want to learn more, call Allure Skin & Laser Center today at (650) 344-1121.