Laser Hair Removal Chicago, IL

Treatment Process and Experience

1) Quick consult (10–15 min). We review goals, hair/skin profile, meds, sun history, and do a test spot.
2) Prep. Please shave 24 hours before. No waxing/tweezing for 3–4 weeks before treatment. Skip self-tanner/sun for 2 weeks.
3) During treatment. You’ll feel fast “snaps” with cooling—most areas take 10–25 minutes (underarms are usually <10).
4) Right after. Mild redness/bumps can happen for a few hours. Cool compress if needed, SPF on exposed areas, and avoid hot yoga/sauna for 24 hours.
5) The series. Hair sheds in 7–14 days post-visit. We space sessions every 4–6 weeks (face can be closer, body slightly longer).
6) Results. Noticeably slower growth by visit 2–3; major reduction by visit 5–6. Hormonal areas (face/bikini) may need occasional touch-ups.

Safety and Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal

Who’s a good candidate? Most skin tones (Fitz I–VI). Laser targets the pigment in the hair, so dark/blonde/grey/very fine hair may respond less and could need more sessions or electrolysis for final cleanup.

Common, short-term effects (normal):

• Mild redness, perifollicular bumps (“strawberry seed look”) for a few hours
• Temporary warmth or tingling

Less common risks (we screen to prevent):

• Temporary hyper/hypopigmentation—higher risk with recent sun, self-tanner, or photosensitizing meds
• Surface irritation if after-care or sun guidance isn’t followed
• Safety standards at SPA312:

• FDA-cleared diode with contact cooling

• Fitz-type protocols and conservative test spots

• Strict sun/tanner and medication screening (e.g., isotretinoin, certain antibiotics)

• Eye protection, calibrated fluence, and trained providers

How to reduce risk: Follow prep instructions, avoid sun/self-tanner 2 weeks before/after, use SPF 30+, and tell us about any new meds or skin changes. Results vary; laser is hair-reduction, not guaranteed permanent removal.

Pre-Care & Post-Care 

Before: Shave 24 hrs prior • No waxing/tweezing 3–4 wks • No sun/self-tanner 2 wks • Arrive clean/dry skin.
After: Cool compress PRN • SPF daily • No hot yoga/sauna 24 hrs • Exfoliate gently after day 3 to help shedding.

How Laser Hair Removal Works

Laser hair removal is a safe and effective way to say goodbye to unwanted hair and achieve smoother, hair-free skin. This advanced treatment uses focused light energy to target the pigment in each hair follicle, damaging it and reducing future hair growth. Whether you want to remove hair from your upper lip, chin, bikini line, legs, underarms, or larger areas like the chest and arms, laser hair removal can deliver amazing, lasting results.

During each session, our trained medical professionals will use a specialized laser device to treat the desired area. The laser emits a precise beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment in your hair, which in turn damages the hair follicle and disrupts the hair growth cycle. While the process is generally safe and suitable for a wide range of skin types, some patients may feel mild discomfort—often described as a sensation similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. For those who are sensitive, a topical anesthetic can be applied to minimize any discomfort.

It’s important to understand that not all hairs are in the same growth phase at once, so multiple treatments are recommended to achieve optimal, long-lasting results. The number of sessions needed depends on several factors, including your skin type, hair color, the area being treated, and how your hair grows. Most patients see a significant reduction in hair after a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart.

Unlike shaving or waxing, which only offer temporary solutions, laser hair removal provides a more permanent reduction in hair growth. The process is suitable for both men and women and can be performed on nearly any area of the body, including the face, neck, arms, legs, and bikini area. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of laser hair removal in Chicago, contact us today to schedule a consultation. 

Our team will help you develop a tailored treatment plan, discuss pricing, and guide you every step of the way to achieve the smooth, hair-free skin you’ve always wanted.