What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular elective treatments in Bellevue, WA. It's an effective method for long-term hair reduction on the face and/or body. Using the Soprano® ICE technology, this treatment frequently leaves the skin looking and feeling smoother and provides long-lasting results compared to other methods. Elizabeth Hagen at Absolute Aesthetics performs effective and safe laser hair removal services for women and men in frequently needed areas, including the arms, back, legs, face, chest, armpits, and intimate regions. The Soprano ICE is FDA-cleared for different skin types, can address a wide range of hair types and patients, and utilizes multi-wavelength technology and cutting-edge cooling technology for improved results.

At Absolute Aesthetics, we specialize in advanced hair removal techniques, including laser hair removal.

Who is a Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

There are several things to consider when determining whether laser hair removal with the Soprano ICE system may be safe, appropriate, and effective for you. Some of the primary considerations regarding laser hair removal are hair color and skin tone. Generally speaking, patients with fair skin and dark hair achieve the most successful outcome with laser hair removal, because the laser works by targeting pigment within the hair follicle. For this same reason, patients with dark skin tones may not be eligible for treatment, as the laser energy can actually damage the highly pigmented skin. Additionally, laser hair removal should not be performed on tattooed skin.

There are other conditions that may also disqualify patients from getting laser hair removal, like pregnancy or an active skin infection. Prior to starting a laser hair removal treatment course, our expert aesthetic team will perform a thorough skin evaluation and review of your health and medical history to ensure laser hair removal is an appropriate treatment option for you.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?

Consistent waxing and/or shaving is annoying. Laser hair removal performed by our providers offers a fantastic alternative to the traditional way of getting rid of undesirable body hair. Benefits of laser hair removal include:

• Able to be carried out on a few parts of your body and for many types of hair.
• Makes skin more supple and more moisturized.
• Fast treatment with minimal or no discomfort for most individuals.
• Less intrusive than plucking or waxing.
• Yields lasting outcomes.
• Stops ingrown hairs.
• Avoids hair regrowth between appointments.

What to Expect from Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is an effective treatment for long-lasting improvements. The state-of-the-art implementation of the Soprano ICE Platinum laser gives incredible results for men and women. While patients can enjoy the effects of the Soprano ICE Platinum laser hair removal treatment for years, laser hair removal is technically semi-permanent since some hair follicles may continue growing. Regardless, patients find that most hair follicles are gone after their treatment plan has concluded, and even if stray hairs are still growing, it is very easy to manage. Additional laser hair removal sessions can also take care of new growth and stragglers. Your laser hair removal session can cause discomfort but is not considered painful. You should feel a slight sting when the laser zaps each follicle. The cold sapphire tip of our Soprano ICE Platinum system will help keep you comfortable throughout your treatment. However, your technician might apply a local anesthetic on your skin before the treatment session for additional comfort. Since each hair follicle grows in a various stage, several treatments are usually recommended to target each hair when it's growing. Scheduling your sessions over a few weeks helps you get the most effective results and silky skin.

What Should I Expect After Laser Hair Removal?

Caring for your new smooth skin after laser hair removal is easy. The state-of-the-art treatment offers minimal discomfort and downtime. You may notice your skin appearing slightly red or swollen, similar to a mild sunburn, but this typically subsides within a few hours. After a few days, you'll see the treated hairs gradually fall out, leaving your skin smoother. Multiple sessions are often recommended for the best results, so make sure to follow any aftercare instructions our team provides you. If you are seeking laser hair removal, contact our team to book your appointment.

How does laser hair removal treatment work?

Light/Laser destroys the hair follicle by focused energy that travels through the skin targeting the brown or black-pigmented hair in the follicle. The brown or black pigment in the hair papilla absorbs the focused light creating a thermal reaction damaging the follicle and cutting it off from the blood supply than stimulates and nourishes the hair.

What areas are most common for laser hair removal treatment areas?

The most popular areas for laser hair removal for women are the face, chin, upper lip, under arms and forearms, legs, and the bikini. The most popular areas for laser hair removal for men are the back, chest, abdomen, front and back of the neck, ears, and facial hair.

What will my skin look like right after my laser hair removal treatment?

You may return to activities as normal following your treatment. Redness and swelling around the hair follicles that were treated is normal and will disappear soon after the treatment.

Will the hair eventually regrow after laser hair removal treatments?

Laser hair removal using the Soprano® ICE technology offers long-lasting results, but it's considered a semi-permanent treatment. While the majority of hair follicles are eradicated through the course of your treatment plan, some follicles may continue growing. Any regrowth is usually finer and much more manageable, and additional laser hair removal sessions can target new growth or stragglers. Our team will work closely with you to ensure you achieve and maintain the desired smooth, hair-free appearance.

What should I do before and after my laser hair removal session?

Preparation for laser hair removal at our  Bellevue, WA office is relatively simple. Avoid sun tanning, waxing, or plucking the area to be treated for about 4 to 6 weeks before the treatment. Shaving is allowed, and the area should be clean-shaven before your appointment. After the treatment, avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen to protect the treated area is essential. Some redness and swelling are normal, but these will subside shortly. Avoid hot baths, saunas, or strenuous activities for the first 24 hours. Your technician will provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to your treatment, and following these guidelines will optimize your results and comfort.

How many sessions will I need?

Most patients require five to seven treatments, performed at varying intervals ranging from every 6 weeks to 10 weeks and only if hair is present.