Frequently asked questions.
1) What is a laser?
Laser is an acronym which stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The laser emits a beam of light which passes through the skin along the hair follicle. The energy from the laser is transformed into heat which can disable the follicle, leaving the surrounding skin unchanged.
2) Can I laser any part of my body?
Almost. Pretty much everywhere except for around the eyes and over tattoos and moles.
3) Does laser hurt?
Yes, but the pain is very temporary and doesn’t hurt anymore than waxing. A laser flash is a quick second and will feel like a warm elastic snapping against your skin. The ouch factor will vary from area to area. IMO icing is the best pain management method but everyone has their own unique ways.
4) How many Laser sessions will I need?
The answer to this question depends entirely on you. In general, most people need 6-8 treatments per area. 6-10 for darker skin and finer haired folks. However this can vary from person to person and body part. The areas with the thickest hair will see the best results particularly for women: Lower legs, Underarms, Bikini. Facial hair on women is the most difficult area and will likely be ongoing though very manageable. As someone with a hormone imbalance, hair removal will always be a part of my life but laser has made all the difference in the world.
5) Can I also use other types of hair removal in between sessions?
The only type of removal you should use in between laser sessions is shaving. If you remove hair from the root, there won’t be any pigment for the laser to detect and will be a waste of money. No waxing, threading or tweezing.
6) Do I have to shave before my appointment?
Yes. It is a good idea to shave 1 or 2 days before your appointment. If we are treating an area with thick hair for the first time, I recommend a close shave.
Some people feel odd about bringing a razor to their face. If you really feel uncomfortable doing it yourself, talk to your technician and they will likely do it for you.
The only area you should never shave is the neck for women to avoid increased growth. I can go into more detail about this during a consult.
7) Can I sunbathe before or after my session?
NO! Lasers are attracted to pigment. The darker you are, the lower the setting and therefore less effective. There are lasers like the YAG where you can be dark and still get great results. But no matter what, someone with light skin and dark hair will always be the best candidate. ALWAYS be honest with your technician about your exposure to sun. You should wait 2-4 weeks after you’ve been on a sunny holiday. (No Tanning beds or self tanners either)
8) What should I expect after a treatment?
After a treatment the skin may be red and bumpy because the hair follicles have been irritated with heat. This is absolutely normal. You should protect the treated area from the sun, and avoid activities which induce heat for 24-48 hours immediately after treatment, such as exercise, saunas, hot tubs etc. Use an ice pack if the area treated feels warm to the touch within the first 24 hours. The area can be moisturized with an aloe gel.
You will leave the treatment with smooth skin. There is however 3 – 5 mm of lasered hair below the skin surface which has to shed. When the hair begins to work its way out to shed it appears to be growing again. This is not re-growth but is actually the dead hair falling out. This process usually takes 2 – 3 weeks. The shedding is an exciting time. You’ll see.
9) I have fine hair. It doesn’t bother me much. Would I be a good candidate for laser?
Unfortunately no. While you could have results, laser works best for people who have thick hair. If you are not bothered by the hair, I would not recommend laser for you.
10) I have dark skin and was told I cannot have laser done. Is this true?
Yes and No. Not all lasers are suitable for all skin types. If you have dark brown/black, skin, look for a laser called ND Yag. This is the safest machine for you.
11) Can I come for laser sessions if I am pregnant?
This is not recommended. Lasers are still young technology and there is not sufficient evidence to prove it safe for pregnant women. If you struggle with excess growth on your face, please discuss with your Dr. Some women who consistently laser their face have been given the green light to continue during pregnancy by their obstetricians.
12) Who do I book with?
If you have arrived at this site via a referral to Smooth Operator Laser, instagram or google search, please book your appointment with Ayisha.
If you are a client of Goodlight Laser, please book with Ruby Jean.
13) What are your hours?
We mostly work evenings after 5pm and weekends. If you are interested in early 8am appointments or can only do daytimes, please let me know via email, IG DM and we will do our best to accommodate.
14) Do you offer other services?
At this time we specialize only in Laser Hair Removal. Being the expert in one category is important to us before adding additional services.
However, we have partnered up with Bianca & Co who offer Permanent Makeup services. You can learn more about them here -> Bianca & Co