Review: Laser Hair Reduction

 

Now, I'm not overly hairy or anything but I do become lazy sometimes over the thought of going to the salon to get a wax. So when I was offered the chance to visit Dr. Kamil Al Rustom's clinic for a laser hair reduction treatment, I was more excited than nervous!

Dr. Rustom's clinic is in the heart of Dubai's cosmetic surgery district, sitting comfortably next to the Iranian Hospital on Wasl Road. Its all white interiors are welcoming and unnerving at the same time, and the receptionists and administrators are warm. I was handed a medical assessment form as soon as I walked in and was then guided to the waiting area outside the doctor's office.

Once I met Dr. Rustom, I immediately felt at ease as he has the aura of someone who's been in the field for years. That level of confidence, knowledge and warmth is really something every doctor should possess, especially with scaredy-cats like me! After a quick assessment and round of introductions with the therapists who would be treating me, I was whisked off to a separate treatment room that was cosy and just the right temperature. 
 

I was advised a quick patch test to check if my skin was reacting well to the laser treatment. Since the areas in question - underarms and bikini - have sensitive skin, it was essential that they ran a test before starting the treatment. Patient safety is obviously a top priority at Dr. Rustom's clinic and I immediately felt more confident about going forward with it. 

My first session was a few days later, by appointment. I was given a couple of confirmation and reminder calls, which I thought was nice considering how busy I had been at work and my memory was clearly sieving! Once at the clinic, I was once again blown away by the serenity of the space. Not to forget, I was also offered a private parking space at the clinic's garage, which I thought was a nice touch. 

I was escorted to the treatment room by my therapist who didn't waste any time trying to ease me into the process. Sometimes, calling a spade a spade is the best approach and I appreciated the fact that she told me it would be uncomfortable in certain areas. She also had some assistance, which took all the load off me, as I was essentially just lying down and doing nothing while the two lovely ladies looked after me perfectly. Had it not been the sound of the laser machine, I could have fooled my brain to thinking I was at the spa! 
 

The treatment itself lasts about 90 minutes, that's for 3 areas (both underarms and bikini) with some cooling time and short breaks for when it gets uncomfortable. There is also a bit of prep involved, like making sure there's no stray hairs (it is advised that you shave just before your session - avoid waxing or using the epilator at all costs!) and applying the cooling gel. Apparently, I have a high pain threshold (who knew?!) so I didn't require the numbing cream. However, if you feel like you need the cream, be prepared to spend an additional hour at the clinic.

 

Since this was my first session - I have 7 more to go - the 'pain' experienced was substantial. Not because of how much it hurt, but because it was something I'd never felt before. I suppose it's more the novelty of the pain rather than the pain itself that makes it noticeable. This is something I hope I won't feel as much over my following sessions. There is absolutely no downtime although some studies suggest that patients may feel a slight itchiness or redness depending on the sensitivity of their skin. I, however, left without any such side effects. It is strongly recommended that you apply an antibiotic ointment such as Fucidin on treated areas for a period of 3 days following your session. 

Once I was finished, I was met with someone from the admin team who set up my next appointment for a month later. More updates when I go back!