Sleepingguess Skin Consults

Plain information

What to know before laser hair removal

Read what the treatment involves and what to ask, then send a request to a provider near Fort Collins when you are ready.

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Areas people ask about

Laser hair removal can be discussed for most areas where hair grows. Common questions cover:

  • legs and arms
  • underarms
  • bikini line
  • face, such as the upper lip or chin
  • back, chest and shoulders
  • the back of the neck

Each area has its own considerations, such as how coarse the hair is and how sensitive the skin feels. The plan is usually a series of sessions, and the number varies. Skin tone and hair color affect which device fits, so a licensed provider looks at both before deciding what is suitable.

Medicines and health history

Some medicines make skin more sensitive to light, which matters for laser hair removal. Examples include some antibiotics, acne medicine taken by mouth, and some herbal supplements such as St John's wort. A provider will also want to know about hormone-related conditions that affect hair growth, a history of keloid scars, cold sores, and pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Bring a full list of medicines and supplements to the consultation. Do not stop any prescribed medicine without talking to the person who prescribed it. The licensed provider weighs it all and decides what is suitable, or whether to wait.

A short list to bring

For a laser hair removal consultation, bring:

  1. photo ID
  2. a list of medicines and supplements
  3. notes on recent sun, tanning or self-tanner
  4. your hair removal history for each area
  5. dates of trips or events in the coming months
  6. your questions

Wear clothing that makes the area easy to show. If you have a tattoo or mole in the area, mention it so the provider can plan around it. A licensed provider decides what is suitable.

Questions about laser hair removal

Is laser hair removal an option for blond, gray or red hair?

Very light hair can be hard for many lasers to target, because most devices rely on pigment in the hair. Some providers may still discuss options. Ask plainly at the consultation, and a licensed provider will tell you whether it is suitable.

Does recent sun matter?

Yes. A tan, a sunburn or self-tanner changes how skin responds to laser light, and many providers wait until it fades. Mention any recent sun and planned trips at your consultation. The provider may suggest planning sessions for times of year when sun exposure is lower.

What does a session feel like?

People often describe it as a snapping or warm feeling on the skin. Many devices have built-in cooling, and some providers use cooling gel. Ask the provider about comfort options at the consultation, and tell them during a session if something feels wrong.

One form, one local provider, and your questions answered before any decision.

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More consultation topics

Skin care treatments

General notes on facials, peels and microneedling, and the questions worth asking before you try one.

Injectables consults

A licensed provider can talk through wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers with you and decide what is suitable.

Body treatments

Each non-surgical body treatment works in its own way. Talk it over with a local provider first.