As one of the safest and most reliable treatments available today, full-face laser hair removal is increasingly becoming a popular option for both men and women looking for longer-term solutions. This innovative technique removes annoying facial hair without having to mess around with traditional methods like waxing or tweezing. It gives you real long-term results with minimal side effects. The areas that can be treated with full-face laser hair removal include the upper lip, chin, cheeks, sideburns, and neck. This method eliminates both fine vellus hairs, commonly known as peach fuzz and thicker terminal hairs.
The treatment is relatively quick and painless, with each session lasting as little as fifteen minutes depending on one’s skin type and its sensitivity. So, how does full-face laser hair removal work, and what is the recovery time? This process works by using lasers to target melanin in the follicles and disrupt the growth cycle of the hair, allowing you to permanently reduce hair on your face over time. It requires minimal downtime following sessions so you can get back to your normal activities right away, without any major disruption.
Who Is Suitable For This Procedure?
In general, it is considered safe for most skin types and any age above 18, though dark skin may require special attention. Since laser beams tend to target melanin or pigment in hairs, it can also be suggested that people with fairer skin or lighter hair receive better results. Ultimately, whether full-face laser hair removal is right for you depends on your skin type and hormones. If you’re thinking of giving it a go then make sure to discuss your concerns with a professional who can advise on what will give you the best outcome.
Begin by scheduling your appointment no sooner than six weeks before you plan on getting the treatment done. This gives your skin time to build resistance after shaving or waxing before the session.
Other recommendations include the following:
- stop shaving or waxing at least two weeks prior to your session;
- avoid direct sun exposure (it can make your skin more susceptible to irritation or burning);
- do not apply makeup — wash the area with a gentle cleanser instead;
- tell your practitioner about any medications or supplements you are taking.
It is also recommended to plan out adequate recovery time — depending on individual skin sensitivity levels and the complexity of the treatment area, several days may be needed to allow swelling and redness to recede. Finally, what you need to do before full-face laser hair removal is to give yourself enough time on the day of to arrive at least 15 minutes early for check-in and preliminary prep of the area. Following these steps will help make sure that everything runs smoothly leading up to your treatment!
The procedure is generally considered safe, but it’s important to exercise caution before and during the process of hair removal. While the laser targets only dark and coarse hairs, it can still cause irritation and inflammation of the skin. You should always find a trusted professional who can review your medical history to make sure you’re an appropriate candidate for the treatment. During the session, patients may experience some discomfort, and to keep this risk minimal, pre-treated numbing creams should be applied beforehand so that any reactions can be managed effectively.
You will need anywhere from 4 to 10 sessions to achieve the best results. The exact number depends on your skin type, hair growth cycle, thickness, and color. The best way to determine how many treatments you’ll need is by scheduling an appointment with an expert. Generally speaking, the average cost for a full-face laser hair removal is around $300 per session — depending on the type of device used and your individual needs. Results vary based on the individual, but patients usually notice a difference in texture and thickness after just one or two sessions.
After the treatment is complete, you may experience some mild to moderate redness, which will usually subside within 24 hours. The other side effects of full-face laser hair removal may include allergic reactions or infections (a relatively rare occurrence). In this case, it is necessary to speak with your technician about ways to manage those conditions.
Here are post-treatment instructions to minimize any potential risks:
- keep the area clean and dry for at least 24 hours after the appointment;
- apply a broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30+ when outdoors;
- avoid any products that contain alpha hydroxy acids or retinol;
- don’t put makeup or skincare products for at least 24 hours post-treatment;
- wash your face gently with a mild cleanser and avoid exfoliants;
- avoid hot tubs, saunas, and other sources of intense heat;
- refrain from picking or scratching at any crusting that may occur.
Your skin will start producing new cells within two weeks after treatment. If it appears dry or flaky, apply a moisturizer twice daily until your skin returns to its normal state. You may also experience some temporary discomfort such as discoloration or swelling in the treated area — these effects should diminish within a few days, but if they persist, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
There are a few factors that can make someone ineligible for this type of treatment. First and foremost, those with active sunburns or tans should not pursue it to avoid further skin damage. The process of full-face laser hair removal is not recommended for people who have active acne as well. If you are currently experiencing this skin condition, it is best to wait until it clears up because any scarring or discoloration from acne could make it difficult to see results from this therapy and may cause permanent damage.
Moreover, we do not recommend undergoing the procedure if you:
- have skin conditions like eczema and rosacea;
- take medications such as Accutane and Alpha-Hydroxy acids;
- have undergone another kind of facial aesthetic procedure recently;
- have any active skin infections (i.e. cold sores);
- use any medication that affects the immune system (e.g. steroids);
- have a weakened immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer;
- have had recent injuries, tattoos, or permanent makeup done.
Most specialists advise against undergoing any kind of laser treatment during pregnancy, as the heat and intensity of the laser may have negative effects on both mother and baby. Your doctor can help determine if it is a good fit for your body and lifestyle during this time.
The team of experts at Queens is dedicated to providing you with the most comfortable experience possible so that you can get back to your normal life quickly after the session. We offer full body and face laser hair removal using a wide range of equipment to meet your specific needs and goals. You can choose from a variety of pricing options based on the size of the area being treated, so you don’t have to worry about paying too much. Our goal is to help you achieve the smooth, beautiful skin you desire. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly staff members!
