The first invention of laser has been around since the 60s and attempts at laser hair removal started around the same time. However, it took almost 40 more years before it became a hair removal method. So we should really be clued up when it comes to laser hair removal right? Uhhh… Maybe not so right. Tzvia Hermann owner of The Laser Beautique (TLB) shares some insight
GLAMOUR: What is the difference between laser hair removal and IPL for those who still don’t understand?
TZVIA HERMANN: Laser only emits one pure red light that is absorbed by the melanin of the hair. This results in the optimum energy absorption by the melanin, in order to transform it into heat to eliminate the hair growth cells efficiently & safely. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is NOT a laser. As you can see from the image below, IPL emits all the colours of the rainbow. IPL uses a spectrum of high-intensity pulses of visible light which some falsely sell as “laser hair removal”. Many people who think they have had laser hair removal and it didn’t work, have actually been treated with IPL. The IPL’s “scatter gun” approach is painful and inefficient and hair growth cells fail to be completely destroyed & resulting in thinning and lightening of the hair. This means the hair has less pigment which makes it harder to treat with laser. IPL treatments result in the need for significantly more sessions which costs you more in the long run.
GLAMOUR: Why does laser only work on darker hair?
TH: During laser hair removal, a laser emits a light which is filtered. This filtered light is then absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The light energy is converted to heat. This heat coagulates or inactivates the tube-shaped sacs and the capillaries that supply the hair with oxygen and nutrients. This inhibits future hair growth. If there is little to no Melanin, the light can't be absorbed. Laser is therefore not effective on light, blonde, red, grey or white hair. If you have embarrassing light hair, fear not! We can remove light hair with Apilus Electrolysis reinvented.
GLAMOUR: For those who want to try laser hair removal for the first time which area would you advise they target first?
TH: We offer a free consultation and test patch. We like to laser one underarm so that one can compare and see the difference. But if you have embarrassing unwanted hair anywhere, and we mean anywhere, you can have it lasered! We laser for a living! We have seen it all and our beauts and beauties are made to feel super comfortable. The first area you would like to target is completely up to you.
GLAMOUR: Let’s talk about price points. What is the comparison between shaving vs. waxing vs. laser?
GLAMOUR: TWO MYTHS AND 2 TRUTHS ABOUT LASER HAIR REMOVAL?
MYTH: Laser hair removal is permanent after just one session.
TRUTH: While laser hair removal can significantly reduce hair growth just after one session, it typically requires multiple sessions to achieve long-lasting results. The exact number of sessions varies depending on factors such as hair colour, skin type, and the area being treated. we say one needs between 8 and 12 treatments.
MYTH: Laser hair removal is only safe on light skin and dark hair.
TRUTH: While laser hair removal was originally only safe for individuals with light skin and dark hair, (due to the contrast that helps the laser target the hair follicles) advancements in technology have made it possible for people with all skin types and tones to have safe and effective laser hair removal. Be aware of the many clinics out there that still use old technology.
MYTH: Laser hair removal can assist in managing and even getting rid of painful ingrown hair
TRUTH: Laser hair removal can be an effective method to reduce and even eliminate ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows back into the skin instead of up and out of the hair follicle. This can result in painful and sometimes inflamed bumps.
As laser hair removal eliminates the hair, it leads to fewer ingrown hairs over time.
While laser hair removal can help manage ingrown hairs, it's important to note that some people may still experience occasional ingrown hairs even after undergoing laser hair removal. If this is the case, we use Apilus Electrolysis to target individual ingrowns to get rid of them for good.
GLAMOUR: WHAT IS IT ABOUT LASER THAT MAKES WOMEN FEEL CONFIDENT, LIBERATED AND FREE?
TH: Feeling comfortable in your own skin is the most liberating feeling in the world. Never having to worry about embarrassing hair, ingrown hair, a 5 o'clock shadow and having silky smooth skin throughout the month allows one that feeling.
