For people who are tired of shaving, tweezing, and waxing to remove unwanted hair, laser hair removal has become the preferred option and is something I’ve always wanted to have done, but a few factors have stopped me. Things like how much it costs, assuming it’s expensive and how much it’ll hurt, it is a laser after all. So when I got offered the chance to become a guinea pig for the Laser Spa I jumped at the chance, in the name of research of course!
The Laser Spa, based at 11 David Place, is part of the Dental Spa suite. Here you’ll be met by the welcoming receptionists and introduced to Michelle or Joanna, who will oversee your treatment. I was first asked to complete a preliminary medical questionnaire, to make sure that I was in tip top health before we began our session and once we’d confirmed I was we moved into the treatment room on the ground floor, a quiet, private space.
Michelle explained to me that “During laser hair removal, a laser beam passes through the skin to an individual hair follicle. The intense heat of the laser damages the hair follicle, which inhibits future hair growth.” So that’s the science part, what about the reality of how this feels. Knowing that everyone is different I can only speak about my own personal experience and say how surprised I was at how little it hurt. I’d say it’s more irritating than painful, like someone repeatedly flicking you with a tight elastic band and thanks to the accompanying blast of cold air the heat of the laser is barely felt.
To be honest I was blown away by how little it hurt, how quick the treatment was, I was in and out within 15 minutes and also how quickly I saw results. I’m already happy with the fact I seem to have less need to shave my underarms, and that’s only after my first two sessions. Just imagine how it’ll be after the full course, no more need to have those ‘uh oh’ moments. I’m told you can expect to see a transformation of around 80% of hair gone in up to seven treatments.
What about the cost, well this is the other great thing. When you weigh up those regular visits to be waxed, then laser hair removal is a no brainer. Whilst it may seem like a large chunk of money initially, if you add up the cost of a waxing and multiply it by the number of times a year you have to visit you’ll instantly see the cost savings. You can choose to pay for your course in one lump sum, which will save you in the long run, or pay per visit, so that you can spread the costs.
Of course laser hair removal isn’t just for ladies either. More and more men are seeing the benefits too, whether it be their chests or backs (yup we all know someone who’d benefit) it’s a great option for them too. Joanna also explained to me “it’s a great option for those looking to have tattoos too. If the tattoo is being placed on somewhere that is hairy, then why not remove the hair first, so that your work will always be seen at its very best.”
One other question I had was about the difference between IPL and laser treatments. Well in basic terms, IPL (intense pulsed light) is far less effective than Laser Hair removal. The energy is produced by a lamp, a little like a light bulb, and produces a variety of light waves, meaning that it is more diffuse and less powerful. It is usually limited to use on fairer skin types. So whilst you may think you’re getting something similar you really aren’t. The Cynosure laser that the Laser Spa use is the very best on the market and therefore you can expect to see results quickly and it also works on darker skin types, which many others don’t. There may also be a cost saving with IPL, but in the long run that won’t be the case as you’re likely to need repeated treatments.
I think the thing I appreciated the most about my treatment at the Laser Spa was the transparency of the information given to me. Rather than being told that I can expect to see 100% hair removal, the ladies explained that you you may require a top up visit at a much later date once your course is finished, if any new hairs grow. I for one am a massive convert and actually can’t believe that I haven’t been sooner.
The Laser Spa, 11 David Place, St Helier
Call – 01534 759599
