Underarm hair can be frustrating to keep on top of. Regular shaving can leave the skin feeling irritated, while waxing means repeatedly waiting for enough regrowth before your next appointment.
Laser hair removal offers a longer-term approach to reducing unwanted underarm hair. But because the skin beneath the arms can be sensitive, it is understandable to have questions about safety before booking treatment.
So, is underarm laser hair removal safe, what does treatment feel like and what should you expect afterwards?
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe for Your Underarms?
Laser hair removal is generally considered a safe treatment when the appropriate laser technology is used correctly by an experienced practitioner.
Temporary redness, swelling and discomfort are among the most common side effects following laser hair removal and usually settle within a few days. Less common risks can include blistering, changes in skin pigmentation, infection and scarring.
At Azthetics, we use the Lumenis SPLENDOR X system for laser hair removal at our Bristol clinic. It combines Alexandrite (755nm) and Nd:YAG (1064nm) laser wavelengths using BLEND X technology, allowing treatment to be tailored according to factors including skin type, hair colour and thickness.
This is particularly important with laser hair removal because the correct treatment settings depend on your individual skin and hair characteristics.
How Does Underarm Laser Hair Removal Work?
Laser hair removal uses light energy to target pigment within the hair. The energy is converted into heat, which damages the hair follicle and reduces its ability to produce new hair.
Hair grows in different cycles, and not every hair will be in the correct growth phase during a single appointment. This is why laser hair removal requires a course of treatments rather than one session.
Over time, you should notice considerably less hair growing beneath your arms, with any remaining or regrowing hair often becoming finer and less noticeable.
Does Underarm Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
Everyone experiences laser hair removal slightly differently, but the underarms are a relatively small treatment area, so sessions are usually quick.
You may feel warmth or a sensation similar to a small elastic band snapping against the skin as the laser pulses. The SPLENDOR X system used at Azthetics has an integrated Dual Cooling System designed to cool the treatment area and improve comfort during treatment.
Your practitioner will talk you through what to expect before beginning your treatment.
Is Underarm Laser Hair Removal Safe for Darker Skin?
Laser technology has developed considerably, and laser hair removal can now be suitable for a much wider range of skin tones than older systems.
SPLENDOR X combines two different wavelengths. Its Alexandrite 755nm and Nd:YAG 1064nm wavelengths can be adjusted to suit different skin and hair combinations. Lumenis states that the system is indicated for Fitzpatrick skin types I to VI. Lumenis
Your skin and hair should still be assessed before treatment so that your practitioner can determine whether laser hair removal is appropriate for you and select suitable treatment settings.
What Should You Do Before Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
Preparing properly for your appointment helps the laser target the hair effectively while reducing the risk of irritation.
You will normally be asked to shave the treatment area before your appointment, rather than waxing or plucking. This leaves the hair follicle beneath the skin available for the laser to target.
You should also avoid tanning before laser treatment. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends avoiding both natural and artificial tanning and protecting the skin from the sun before laser hair removal.
Let your practitioner know about any medications you take and any changes to your skin before treatment. Certain medicines and conditions can affect whether treatment is suitable. Lumenis also advises test spots before full SPLENDOR X treatments to assess the skin’s response.
What Happens After Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
It is normal for the treated skin to look slightly red or swollen immediately afterwards. It can look and feel a little like mild sunburn, but this should usually settle relatively quickly.
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner and avoid anything likely to irritate the area immediately following treatment.
You may also notice hairs appearing to grow following your appointment. This doesn’t necessarily mean the treatment hasn’t worked. Treated hairs can gradually shed as they are pushed out of the follicles.
Can You Use Deodorant After Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
Because the skin can be more sensitive immediately after treatment, products that normally cause no problems may temporarily sting or irritate the area.
Your Azthetics practitioner will give you specific aftercare instructions following treatment. If your underarms remain red or sensitive, it is sensible to avoid fragranced or potentially irritating products until the skin has settled.
Can You Shave Between Laser Hair Removal Sessions?
Yes. Shaving is generally the preferred method of managing hair between laser appointments.
Waxing and plucking remove hair from the follicle, which means there is less for the laser to target at your next appointment. Shaving removes hair at skin level while leaving the follicle intact.
How Many Underarm Laser Hair Removal Sessions Will You Need?
Laser hair removal requires multiple appointments because hairs need to be treated during the appropriate stage of their growth cycle.
The exact number you need will depend on factors including your hair, skin and response to treatment.
We have covered this in more detail in our guide to how many laser hair removal sessions you really need.
Is Underarm Laser Hair Removal Permanent?
It is more accurate to think of laser hair removal as long-term or permanent hair reduction rather than a guarantee that every hair will disappear forever.
Lumenis defines permanent hair reduction as a long-term, stable reduction in the number of hairs that regrow after completing a treatment course.
Some people may eventually need occasional maintenance sessions, and factors such as hormonal changes can affect future hair growth.
Underarm Laser Hair Removal in Bristol
If you’re tired of repeatedly shaving or waxing your underarms, laser hair removal can offer a longer-term solution.
At Azthetics, our experienced team provides laser hair removal using the SPLENDOR X system at our Bristol clinic on Whiteladies Road. We’ll assess your skin and hair before treatment and create a treatment plan tailored to you.
Get in touch with Azthetics to book your free laser hair removal consultation in Bristol.