One of the things I dread most about summer is the nearly daily ritual of shaving my legs. With fair skin, dark hair, and a potent dose of multivitamins, I could not go more than 24 hours without a beard that peaked at my calves. The thing is, I even have sensitive skin that’s prone to razor bumps and ingrown hairs, both itchy and irritated. Last year I attempted waxing but after a few days the hair had grown back and that I had to wait weeks before another visit to the salon. This year, I made a decision that it was time for the permanent option…. Laser.
The first time I heard about laser hair removal was years ago when a friend decided to get her upper lip laser done. It sounds painful but it is a small part and it makes sense because she, like many ladies, is very conscious of facial hair. Years later, he still does not must worry a couple of woman’s mustache. So I made a decision, if it works on the face, why not try my legs.
I made a decision to visit a certified Electrologist & licensed Cosmetologist, Berenice Beauty and Electrolysis Center in New York City for a consultation. He explained to me how the process worked and how long it would take before I was hair free. The process can take around six to seven visits depending on the hair growth cycle. “Not all hair follicles are active at the same time.” The goal is to laser the active hair follicles that absorb light and destroy the follicles. During the follicle resting cycle, there isn’t any hair growth for the laser to capture.
First visit to Berenice, I was quite nervous about what to expect so far it was painful. Berenice gave me a stress ball, covered my eyes for protection and gave me a “test zap” to show me what the process would look like. The best way I can describe it’s like a rubber band being flicked across your skin a few times. But, it is really not as hard as it sounds. After the first few stings, I took a deep breath and reminded myself that it wasn’t approximately as painful as waxing. The sting and smell of burnt hair just reminds me that those hairs will endlessly be burned from my body.
The first three sessions were about 3-4 weeks apart then we moved to 5 weeks. After my third session, there was a noticeable difference in hair growth. There is much less hair and it’s much thinner. Visits become less and fewer painful as there’s less hair to pull out. So I pushed.
I’m currently having my fifth session with Bernice and it is nearly hair free. Since it is winter, I have not shaved in nearly 2 months now and while I will not leave the house without covering my legs, I do not look like a hairy cave woman either. The remaining hair is scanty and sparse and thin. Two more sessions and a spray tan and I’ll be ready for summer!
The Berenice Beauty & Electrolysis Center is located at 14 East 60th Street, New York, NY. Visit bereniceelectrolysis.com for more information.
