There are many methods to choose from when it comes to hair removal; shaving, waxing, plucking - the list goes on! Whilst these methods can be effective in the short term, laser hair removal is an amazing way to remove hair permanently from your body. Intrigued by laser hair removal but unsure if it’s right for you? We’re here to help! Caci were early adopters of laser hair removal, bringing the revolutionary technology to New Zealand in 1994, so we know our stuff!
Having performed treatments on over 276,000 amazing people over the 27 years, we’re the laser hair removal experts and pride ourselves on delivering the best results for our customers looking to boost their skin confidence. In this guide, we’re breaking down all the pros and cons of laser hair removal to help you decide if it’s the right treatment for you.
What is laser hair removal
Laser hair removal is a modern method used to remove unwanted hair from a number of areas on the face and body. A beam of light is passed through the targeted area, where it's absorbed by the pigment in the hair shaft and follicle. This generates heat, which loosens the hair and also disables the cells involved in hair growth to prevent future hairs from forming. The result is smooth, hairless skin and a delay in future hair growth.
At Caci we use a Diode Laser for long term hair removal. We prefer this laser as it works quickly and we are able to treat a wide range of skin tones. It also has a cooling tip which makes for a more comfortable treatment. Want to know more about how it works and the treatment options? Check out our guide on laser hair removal 101.
Pros of laser hair removal
First things first, let’s take a look at the benefits of using a Diode Laser for laser hair removal.
Long-term hair removal
While laser treatment is not necessarily a permanent solution, results last longer than the traditional hair removal methods like waxing and shaving, which remove hair in one treatment only for it to quickly grow back again. Laser hair removal drastically reduces hair growth and many customers don’t see re-growth for months or years. If the hairs do grow back, they most often appear lighter in colour and thinner. For lasting results, your treatment provider will recommend the best treatment schedule to treat your hair type and look to book your treatments during the anagen or ‘growing’ phase.
Unlike shaving and waxing which you have to do frequently, laser hair removal gives you better results that last longer, and need minimal maintenance after you have completed your initial course of treatments. Think of all the time and hassle you’ll save not shaving or going to waxing appointments!
You can treat a number of different areas
Laser hair removal can be used in a lot of different areas of the body and face, from your armpits, legs, bikini line and back to more delicate areas like your upper lip, chin and cheeks.
We don’t have to tell you how tricky it can be to stay on top of unwanted hair growth, and what it can do for your body confidence.
For women with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) which affects the body’s hormone levels and can result in excess hair growth, constant maintenance can be stressful and a real hassle. The ability to target problem areas for a more long-lasting effect can be a real bonus for many. For more advice on PCOS and laser hair removal check out our guide.
Reduces ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs occur when hairs curl back and grow into the skin, causing red and sometimes painful bumps. Ingrown hairs are a common occurrence with waxing, shaving, and threading; and dealing with them can be a huge nuisance. If you're prone to ingrown hair, you’ll love laser hair removal. With laser hair removal you can be sure it will address the problem at the root and target the follicles directly. This prevents the follicle from growing hair in the future and keeps the skin brighter and smoother. What’s not to love about that?!
Cons of laser hair removal
If you’re considering if laser hair removal is for you, it’s worth noting the cons of the treatment.
It’s a process
Laser hair removal isn’t exactly a quick fix, but good things take time! A laser hair removal session can be super quick, with the appointment typically taking 15 minutes to 60 minutes depending on the treatment area. It takes around 2-3 sessions to start seeing results and up to 8 treatments for final results. We also generally recommend each treatment is spaced between 5-6 weeks apart, allowing for hairs to grow so they can be lasered. Yes, it’s a process, but when it results in long-lasting, low maintenance smoothness, it’s well worth it!
You might experience some discomfort
Yes, everyone is different, but, overall most people experience mild discomfort with laser hair removal, although at Caci we take extra precautions to make it as comfortable as possible.
The Diode laser used for laser hair removal at Caci has a cooling tip, which cools the skin that is receiving treatment and makes the whole process more comfortable. The powerful laser is also very quick, so the treatment and slight discomfort is over quickly. Our Registered Nurses and Skin Therapists are qualified and trained at our Caci Academy so you can have peace of mind that you are in the hands of experts.
It’s more expensive than other hair removal treatments
Laser hair removal is a more expensive method of hair removal, compared to waxing and shaving, although we like to think about it as an investment. Those razors and waxing sessions add up over time, so one could argue that it could work out to save you money in the long run, with minimal maintenance. With all the benefits we’ve highlighted, from smoother skin, less ingrown hairs and the time saved from waxing and shaving, many customers agree it’s well worth it for the long-lasting results.
We also offer payment plans and memberships to help keep the payments manageable. Freedom is our laser hair removal membership and payment plan at Caci, allowing you to spread out the cost of laser hair removal. From $19 a week over the course of 8 weeks, you can enjoy a long term solution to unwanted hair - imagine silky, smooth skin all year round!
It’s may not be suitable for your skin type
The nature of laser hair removal works by passing light beams through the treatment area where it is absorbed by the pigment in the hair shaft and follicle. This generates heat, which loosens the hair and disables the cells involved in growing your hair. This is why we see the best results with dark hair - as the treatment is targeting the pigment. Blonde, red and grey hairs are more difficult to remove. Some underlying medical conditions may exclude you from treatment as they can make the result harder to predict.
However, we recommend coming in for a no-obligation free consultation so we can assess your suitability. You may be able to treat some areas but not others depending on the hair pigment.
Book your free consultation today
Wondering if laser hair removal is right for you? Our Freedom membership is our laser hair removal membership and payment plan at Caci. This membership has been designed to work with the natural hair growth cycle to ensure you get the best possible long-lasting results.
Joining our Freedom membership gets you on the laser hair removal journey, member-only prices, free facials, discounts on products and beauty therapy! For an accurate quote and more information Book a free consultation today at your local Caci Clinic.
Other useful guides:
Skin 101: PCOS and Laser Hair Removal
7 Laser Hair Removal Myths Busted
