Laser Hair Removal: 15 Frequently Asked Questions

1. HOW DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL DIFFER FROM IPL AND OTHER HAIR REMOVAL METHODS?

Four main technology-based methods are used in modern aesthetic practice: electrolysis, intense pulsed light (IPL), ELOS hair removal and laser hair removal.

Each has its advantages. But the differences in effectiveness, treatment time and comfort can be significant.

ELECTROLYSIS

One of the oldest methods of permanent hair removal. A fine probe is inserted into each hair follicle, where an electrical current is applied.

Disadvantages:

• Potential pain and discomfort as each hair is treated individually.

• Lengthy sessions: every follicle must be treated separately, making large areas particularly time-consuming.

• Risk of irritation, burns and scarring if the procedure is performed incorrectly.

• Results depend heavily on the practitioner’s skill and experience.

IPL HAIR REMOVAL

IPL uses intense pulses of broad-spectrum light to target unwanted hair. It can be effective, particularly with high-quality professional equipment.

Disadvantages:

• Unlike a laser, IPL uses a broad range of wavelengths, making its action less selective.

• Effectiveness depends heavily on the device, treatment settings and the combination of skin tone and hair colour.

• Some IPL systems carry a higher risk of burns and pigmentation changes on tanned or darker skin, limiting their suitability.

• A course of treatments is required for long-term hair reduction, and results can vary considerably.

ELOS HAIR REMOVAL

ELOS technology combines intense pulsed light (IPL) with radiofrequency energy.

It is often marketed as a more advanced alternative to conventional IPL. However, combining two forms of energy does not automatically mean twice the effectiveness.

Disadvantages:

• Results depend on the specific equipment and correctly selected treatment parameters.

• Limitations associated with light-based treatment still apply.

• Multiple sessions are required.

• No clear advantage over quality diode laser systems has been established across all cases.

DIODE LASER HAIR REMOVAL

One of the most extensively studied and effective technologies for long-term reduction of unwanted hair growth.

Advantages:

• More selective targeting of hair pigment than broad-spectrum IPL.

• Efficient treatment of both small and large areas of the body.

• Suitable for a range of skin phototypes when the correct parameters are selected.

• Fast treatment of larger areas.

• Research-supported effectiveness in achieving long-term hair reduction following a course of treatments.

WHY DID WE CHOOSE DIODE LASER TECHNOLOGY?

Because impressive-sounding technology names matter less to us than effectiveness, versatility and the ability to tailor each treatment precisely to the individual.

Diode laser hair removal offers an excellent balance for those who want to reduce unwanted hair growth over the long term and rely far less frequently on shaving, waxing or sugaring.

This is the technology we have chosen as the foundation of laser hair removal at The NOW Beauty Lab.

MEDILASE PRO. WHY DID WE CHOOSE THIS PARTICULAR LASER?

At The NOW Beauty Lab, we use the professional MediLase Pro diode laser system.

Four wavelengths — 755, 808, 940 and 1064 nm. This combination offers greater flexibility when treating different skin phototypes, hair thicknesses and follicle depths.

Contact cooling of the handpiece down to −16°C helps reduce discomfort and protect the skin from excessive heat. This is a technical specification of the cooling system, not the temperature of the skin itself.

Fast treatment of larger areas is another advantage. Legs, back and chest can be treated without targeting every individual hair separately.

But even advanced equipment depends on the correct treatment settings.

At our salon, laser hair removal is performed by Katarina, founder and director of The NOW Beauty Lab, who specialises in laser hair removal and traditional depilation methods.

Professional technology. Individually tailored settings. A clear focus on results.

2. WHY DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL NOT WORK EQUALLY WELL FOR EVERYONE?

Because results depend on much more than the name of the machine.

Equipment quality, laser settings, the practitioner’s experience, skin phototype, hair colour and hair structure all matter.

Dark hair generally responds best. Grey, white, very fair and some red hair responds much less effectively — or not at all.

That’s why promises to “remove every hair permanently” should raise questions.

When choosing laser hair removal in Rijeka, look beyond the price of a single session. Ask about the equipment, the practitioner’s expertise and how treatment results are monitored.

A cheaper session isn’t necessarily better value, especially if you end up needing to repeat an entire course.

3. WHAT HAPPENS DURING A LASER HAIR REMOVAL SESSION?

We begin with a consultation and an assessment of your skin and hair. The treatment settings are then selected before the chosen area is treated using the laser handpiece.

Protective eyewear is worn throughout, while contact cooling helps minimise discomfort.

Afterwards, you’ll receive aftercare advice and a plan for your next appointments.

4. DO I NEED TO GROW MY HAIR BEFORE TREATMENT?

No. You will usually need to shave the area the day before your appointment.

However, waxing, sugaring, tweezing and epilating should be avoided for at least four weeks before starting your course. The laser needs pigment within the hair follicle to work effectively.

You can shave between sessions.

Preparation is simple. Following it properly helps you get the most from every treatment.

5. HOW LONG DOES A TREATMENT TAKE?

Smaller areas can be treated in just a few minutes. Legs, back and other larger areas take longer, depending on the size of the treatment area and the selected settings.

Diode laser technology allows larger areas to be treated efficiently, without targeting each individual hair.

But the greatest time saving doesn’t happen during your appointment. It comes afterwards.

Less frequent shaving. Less need to schedule waxing before a holiday or special occasion.

6. CAN ALL HAIR BE REMOVED IN ONE SESSION?

No. And it’s not about laser power.

Hair grows in different phases, and laser treatment is most effective when follicles are in the active growth phase.

That’s why a course of treatments is necessary.

At The NOW Beauty Lab, we generally recommend 8–10 sessions for many body areas, while facial hair may require 10–12 sessions.

Initial intervals are usually 4–6 weeks, gradually increasing according to the treatment area and changes in hair growth.

The number of sessions varies from person to person. A properly planned course is essential for long-term hair reduction.

7. DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL HURT?

You may feel warmth, tingling or brief sensations similar to a light snap of an elastic band against the skin.

Sensitivity varies depending on the area and your individual skin characteristics.

The MediLase Pro cooling system helps minimise discomfort.

Laser hair removal shouldn’t be a test of endurance. If the sensations become too intense, the practitioner will assess your skin’s response and adjust the treatment where appropriate.

8. CAN LASER HAIR REMOVAL LEAVE MARKS ON THE SKIN?

Mild redness, warmth and slight swelling around the hair follicles are possible temporary reactions.

They usually settle on their own.

Burns and pigmentation changes are less common, but the risk exists, particularly with recently tanned skin or incorrectly selected settings.

That’s why professional laser hair removal begins with assessing your skin — not switching on the machine.

Appropriate settings, cooling and following aftercare advice all help reduce the risk of unwanted reactions.

9. WHEN WILL I SEE THE FIRST RESULTS?

Hair doesn’t disappear immediately after a laser pulse.

Over the following days and weeks, treated hairs gradually shed.

Even after the first few sessions, you may notice less hair growth and longer periods of smooth skin.

The real result isn’t measured after one appointment, but by progress throughout your course.

10. WILL MY HAIR DISAPPEAR FOREVER?

Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction, but it cannot guarantee the permanent removal of every single hair.

Some hair may eventually grow back, and occasional maintenance treatments may be needed.

But after a successful course, shaving no longer has to be a constant part of your routine.

And that’s exactly the result most clients are looking for.

11. CAN LASER HAIR REMOVAL BE PERFORMED ON THE DEEP BIKINI AREA?

Yes. It’s one of the areas where the benefits of long-term hair reduction can be particularly welcome.

Less frequent shaving, less prickly regrowth and potentially less irritation.

When treating intimate areas, individually selected settings, a considerate approach and your comfort are especially important.

12. CAN LASER HAIR REMOVAL HELP WITH INGROWN HAIRS?

Yes. By reducing the amount of hair that grows back, laser treatment may also reduce how often hairs become ingrown.

This can be particularly beneficial for the bikini area, legs and men’s beard area.

If shaving regularly leaves you dealing with irritation and ingrown hairs, that’s a compelling reason to consider laser hair removal.

If there is active inflammation, the skin must be assessed before treatment.

13. CAN I HAVE LASER HAIR REMOVAL IN SUMMER OR BEFORE A HOLIDAY?

IN RIJEKA, THE SEA IS NEVER FAR AWAY. YOUR TREATMENT SCHEDULE SHOULD TAKE THE SUN INTO ACCOUNT.

Laser hair removal can be performed throughout the year. However, recently tanned skin carries a higher risk of burns and pigmentation changes.

After treatment, the area should be protected from direct sunlight for several weeks. Use broad-spectrum sun protection with SPF 30 or higher and follow your practitioner’s aftercare advice.

If you’re planning a sun-soaked beach holiday in just a few days, postponing your session is the wiser choice.

You don’t have to give up the beach. You simply need to choose the right time for your treatment.

14. IS LASER HAIR REMOVAL SUITABLE FOR MEN?

Absolutely.

Back, chest, abdomen, shoulders, legs, underarms and certain areas of the neck are all areas where men choose long-term hair reduction.

The reasons vary: dense hair growth, shaving irritation, ingrown hairs or simply personal aesthetic preferences.

You don’t have to aim for completely smooth skin. Sometimes the goal is simply to reduce hair density and make everyday grooming easier.

We discuss your desired result before starting the course.

15. WHEN SHOULD LASER HAIR REMOVAL BE POSTPONED?

Treatment may need to be postponed if the area is recently tanned, damaged or affected by active inflammation.

Certain medical conditions, medications and a tendency towards particular skin reactions require additional assessment.

Laser hair removal is generally postponed during pregnancy because safety data is limited. Tattooed areas must not be treated with a hair removal laser.

That’s why a consultation before treatment isn’t a formality. It’s part of a professional approach.

⸻

15 QUESTIONS. NOW, WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO CHANGE?

Shave your legs less often?

Stop constantly returning to waxing or sugaring?

No longer have to think about last-minute hair removal before heading to the beach?

At The NOW Beauty Lab in Rijeka, laser hair removal is performed by Katarina — founder and director of the salon, specialising in laser hair removal and traditional depilation.

We don’t promise identical results to everyone. We assess your skin and hair, tailor the settings and guide you throughout your treatment course.

Choose the area you’d like to start with.

Book your appointment online, or send us a message if you’d like to discuss your options first.

LET SMOOTH SKIN BE ONE OF LIFE’S PLEASURES — NOT ANOTHER TASK ON YOUR TO-DO LIST.

THE NOW BEAUTY LAB · RIJEKA