Laser Hair Removal Frequently Asked Questions

Laser hair removal is for individuals who want to permanently reduce unwanted hair on their face or body through laser treatments because they're tired of the conventional methods that only yield temporary results.

For safety reasons, you may not be able to get this treatment if you have/are:

• A history of keloid scarring
• Active infection or history of herpes simplex in the treatment area
• Use of depilatories or other hair removal treatments, such as waxing, plucking, or electrolysis, within 6 weeks prior to treatment
• Hypersensitivity to hydroquinone or other bleaching agents
• Use of oral Accutane within 6 weeks prior to treatment

Venus Epileve hair removal treatments can be done on darker skin tones, even tanned skin, by using different settings, as there is a higher risk of discoloration (since darker skin has more pigment in it). The technician will perform a test spot and wait between 15 minutes to 48 hours, depending on your skin tone, to assess your reaction to the laser. They would know best what treatment parameters are most appropriate use for your skin type.

Most patients receive 4-6 treatments per area. The exact number will depend on each individual person's skin type, hair color, and texture, and the area being treated.

Treatments are done 4-8 weeks apart.

Make sure your skin is clean. Do not apply any lotions, creams, or makeup (if you're getting a treatment on your face) before your session, and stop using any products that might irritate your skin 2-3 days before. Remove all jewelry around the area being treated. Shave the treated area the day of your appointment, if you can't the technician will shave and clean the area before starting your treatment. They will also ask about your medical history, so it helps to have that information ready.

Once the treatment starts, you'll feel some heat in the area, but will only last a short while, thanks to the real-time cooling system that kicks in right away to help minimize discomfort. If your technician is using PULSE mode, it will feel like a light snap of an elastic band against your skin. If they're using SLIDE mode, it will feel like a series of light snaps as the technician glides the applicator continuously across the treatment area.

The applicator has a built-in cooling feature to make the treatment as comfortable as possible, but you might feel a bit of discomfort if you're treating a more sensitive area, like along the bikini line or upper lip. If you find it too uncomfortable, let your technician know and they can adjust the settings accordingly.

You may feel like you have a slight sunburn around the treatment area, but this should go away after 1-2 days at the most. You can use a cool compress to cool the area if need be. You may also see some hairs fall out more easily in the days following your treatment - this is perfectly normal. Some patients may also experience what appears to be a rash accompanied by some mild itching. This is also normal - it's just the skin's response to the energy. The redness and itching will subside over a few days. Cool compresses or antibiotic ointments can help speed up the healing process.

It depends on how your hair grows. Some people may see longer-lasting hair removal, while others who see sporadic hair growth in the area may need a touch-up to maintain the results.

There is no downtime. You can return to your daily schedule immediately after your treatment.

Be sure to gently clean the treated area twice a day and apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 before going outside; however, avoid excessive sun exposure. You should also steer clear of hot baths, massages, or any treatment that requires direct contact with the skin for the first 2 days after your treatment.

Yes, you can apply makeup immediately after your treatment, but make sure you put on sunscreen first.