Tune In: A Pro Explains What To Know About Laser Hair Removal

To some, laser hair removal may seem like an unnecessary beauty treatment. But for others, it can be a complete game changer in helping folks feel better in their skin. 

As Christian Karavolas (vice president of the Society of Clinical and Medical Hair Removal and founder of Romeo & Juliette) and I discuss in this week's Clean Beauty School, laser hair removal can benefit a wide range of folks. This includes but is not limited to folks who get razor burn, those who experience in-growns and scarring (particularly notable for those with dark skin tones), athletes (both male and female) who feels it inhibits their performance, those dealing with unwanted growth due to hormonal imbalances, those transitioning, and so on. 

Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in the hair follicles, "and once the follicle gets disabled, it eventually doesn't grow back anymore," Karavolas says. Because the laser itself is targeting the melanin, it's essential that the right laser is used for the patient's skin tone. 

"There are many kinds of lasers," he says, noting that those with dark skin tones should most likely use one called Nd:YAG, which is a long-pulse wavelength. "It's very good for skin of color because it bypasses the epidermis, so it doesn't damage the skin, but it gets rid of the hair." For those with lighter skin tones, a short-pulse laser called Alexandrite will be used. 

Karavolas notes that your first step should always be to go in for a consultation, where they'll ideally give you a rundown of how to take care of your skin before and after. However, it's always good to know basic care instructions regardless.

The most important to note? "Stop any medicine that creates sensitivity to light or heat, such as antibiotics, Accutane, or topical retinol," he says, noting that this should be done a week prior. However, always consult your doctor before stopping any medication—if it means you need to wait to start your hair removal process, then so be it. 

Every body, area of the body, and experience is different, so there's no universally set amount of sessions. But a good average, says Karavolas, is six sessions spaced six to eight weeks apart. 

However, lots of factors will influence this. "Hormonal areas—the chin, upper lips, and sideburns—will require more sessions, usually between eight to 12," he says. "Or if someone has a hormonal imbalance, such as PCOS, they will likely need more sessions." Other things to consider: If you're taking certain medications that can influence your hormones.

Another thing he says he sees commonly: "Some clients are on medications, treatments, or supplements that stimulate hair growth, so that usually means it may take a few more sessions." He also notes that for many patients, it may require upkeep—and so folks will come in for touch-ups throughout the years.