For anyone who hasn’t experienced bikini laser hair removal before, it’s only natural that you might have plenty of questions. The sad truth is, however, that many of you may feel nervous about asking them. We’re talking about an intimate area, of course, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t talk openly and frankly about it. So that’s why I’m here – to break the taboo of bikini laser hair removal and give straight answers to the questions you’re too afraid to ask.
Feel confident
One of the most common reasons my clients opt to have bikini laser hair removal is confidence. I understand that having unwanted body hair can affect how you feel about yourself, especially when it comes to intimacy, and it can impact on your life in terms of the kind of underwear and swimwear you choose. Having laser treatment on your bikini area can do wonders in terms of boosting confidence – you’ll see real results after just one treatment, and after six sessions you’ll see an average 80% of the hair is permanently gone. So you can feel free to wear (or not wear!) whatever you like, whenever you like, without worrying about unsightly hair spoiling the look or the mood.
Why choose laser hair removal?
According to Professional Beauty (Ref 1), a recent study showed excess facial and body hair is the biggest concern amongst women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. 65% of their survey respondents said they had sought aesthetic treatments to help with their symptoms, with laser hair removal being the most popular.
And even for those who don’t suffer from PCOS, laser hair removal appeals because of its many advantages over other hair-removing alternatives. Forget the hassle of making regular waxing appointments, or the time spent shaving daily, and stop worrying about in-growing hairs. Laser hair removal offers a permanent solution to an otherwise never-ending problem.
The gold standard at DRVICTORIA™ Clinic
Here at the clinic, we use the Candela GentleMax Pro Laser which is the best on the market. It is a safe, well-trusted, gold standard medical grade laser which penetrates deep into the hair and can be used on all skin tones – not many other lasers can do that safely. To minimise any discomfort, we use a cryogenic super cooling spray to soothe the skin, and this also helps to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation.
We have two lasers available to suit all skin tones, and we can even switch up the laser if you happen to be much darker in skin tone down there compared to elsewhere on your body, which (little known fact!) many ladies actually are.
Before, during, and after
To prep, we’ll ask you to shave the area 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. We also request that you don’t tan prior to the treatment as the laser will target the pigmentation. As Save Face (Ref 2) explains, ‘Laser treatments are not suitable for tanned skins so you will be expected to avoid tanning prior to any treatment or allow time for your tan to fade’.
On arrival, we’ll go through a list of medical questions to ensure we’re able to proceed safely and provide a hygienic wipe for you. Then the big question that many are too embarrassed to ask – do pants stay on or come off? The answer is whatever you’re most happy with. In truth, it is easier for me to perform the treatment when your pants are off, but I completely understand that not everyone will be comfortable doing this. (However, I do find that most ladies who keep them on during the first session then take them off in the next session when they realise there is absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about and they’re feeling much more at ease!)
Then begins the lasering process. Many people are surprised by how quick the treatment is. We offer 25-minute treatment slots but it can take just 15 minutes to do the whole area in many cases. In terms of the sensation, this can vary. I would describe it as feeling like an elastic band pinging on your skin – it is uncomfortable, but it is completely bearable.
According to the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (Ref 3), if used properly ‘Laser and IPL treatments are safe with very few unwanted side-effects’. That said, it is important to follow our aftercare recommendations – avoid exposure to the sun, sunbeds or self-tanning lotion. Also avoid any heat treatments such as saunas and hot showers, and do not shave for the first 72 hours. Instead, gently apply some aloe vera to soothe the skin.
Bikini hair trends
Another key question many are too uncomfortable asking is ‘What style does everyone else have down there and is there an on-trend bikini hairstyle I should know about?!’ The honest answer is – anything goes! It comes down to individual preference. The two most common requests I get are for the bikini style – which is shaping around the edges, so no hair is visible when wearing a bikini, and the other is for the Brazilian where all hair is removed.
During Lockdown, with all waxing appointments cancelled, some ladies embraced the full growth, whilst others couldn’t wait to book an appointment for bikini laser hair removal at Dr Victoria Clinic to get rid of the whole lot once and for all! Everyone is different, so forget what style you think other people would prefer and choose something that you’re comfortable with.
Let’s talk periods
Some are surprised to discover what an impact the monthly cycle can have on your experience of bikini laser hair removal. Hormones can play a big factor in how sensitive you are to the sensation of the laser, for example, with many of my clients reporting they find the bikini area more sensitive right after their period.
You may also be surprised to hear that we can perform the treatment even while you’re on your period. Some of you may prefer to reschedule your appointment of course, but the option is there for those who want to proceed, no matter what time of the month it is.
Let’s talk some more!
I’ve attempted to answer the most common key questions here but I’m always happy to discuss individual requirements on a more personal basis. If you’d like to know if laser hair removalis right for you - book a consultation.
Hannah
Author’s experience
Hannah has over 3 years experience providing skin treatmentsand is professionally certified in laser hair removal and IPL skin rejuvenation treatments.
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