Planning to banish unwanted hair forever? You certainly are not alone, given that laser hair removal has come to be ranked among the most sought after cosmetic procedures in the US for providing a long term yet low maintenance solution to hair growth. But before laser hair removal, there are several crucial things you need to understand to ensure you get the safest, most effective results. Whether you have just started or need a little bit of review, being prepared in advance is all that counts. This guide will cover everything you need to know, from skin prep tips to what you should or shouldn’t do before your treatment..

Laser hair removal related things will answer a lot about what to expect in case of side effects, good returns on investment, and a lot of overwhelm on your part. Therefore, if you are wondering what to do before laser hair removal, read on as we embark on an in depth study of the ten most important things to know before walking into that clinic. 

1. Get to Know How Laser Hair Removal Functions 

Laser hair removal is about using concentrated light energy to target pigment in the hair follicle. The light, once directed to the matter, is preferably absorbed by the pigment (melanin) and this conversion of light energy to heat damages the follicle just enough to prevent it from growing again. The procedure works best on light skinned people with dark hair, but advancements in technology have given rise to more universally applicable procedures on a wider range of skin types and colors. 

It is important to have realistic expectations regarding what laser hair removal can achieve. While a lot of people report having a massive reduction in hair growth, rarely is it ever permanent after one session. This is almost always a process where multiple sessions are needed to catch each follicle in its growth stage. If you’re beginning your laser hair removal preparation, understanding the science behind it can help set appropriate expectations.

2. Restrict Sun Exposure for Two Weeks or Longer

It has been observed that any sun exposure prior to treatment can result in an increased probability of burns or side effects such as hyperpigmentation or irritation. Tanned skin or sun burned skin is very much sensitive and may also be deemed unfit for the treatment, thus delaying or canceling the same.

If there is a trip planned to the beach or if you spend activities outdoors, sessions should be scheduled accordingly. For the best result and fewest complications, your technician will most likely want you to avoid the sun, or at least use high SPF, broad spectrum sunscreen well in advance of the laser hair removal treatment.

3. Shave the Area of Concern 24 Hours Prior

One of the most important steps in pre laser hair removal instructions is shaving the targeted area about 24 hours before your appointment. This allows for the laser to penetrate the skin well enough without burning the surface hairs.

Do not wax, pluck, or thread for a minimum of four weeks before treatment, as these actions destroy the hair follicle the laser intends to annihilate. Shaving, on the other hand, protects the follicle while also reducing the risk of surface burns.

4. Avoid Harsh Ingredients in Your Skincare Products

If you’re focusing on your skincare before laser hair removal, ditch products that contain retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide at least a few days before treatment. These products increase skin sensitivity, and such sensitivity can set up an increased risk for irritancy or reactions.

Stick with soothing, hydrating cleanser and moisturizer that will not strip the skin of its natural barrier. You will need to communicate to the technician active ingredients in your regimen so as not to guide yourself unknowingly into a bad experience.

5. Stay Away from the Tanning Beds and Self Tanners

Whether they are natural or artificial, tanning interferes with a treatment. The skin absorbs more energy from that laser with tan skin, thus increasing the risk of burns or maybe blisters. That is why it is important not to tan or use a self tanning product as part of laser hair removal preparation.

Most clinics will require you to come in with your natural skin tone. If you have recently applied a self tanner, you may have to wait until it completely fades. It is better to get in touch with your provider in advance regarding any specific guidelines, just in case.

6. Steer Clear of Caffeine and Alcohol Beforehand

Although it does not seem to be relevant, caffeine and alcohol are some of the types of stimulants that can increase skin sensitivity. Such a condition might make the procedure feel more painful than it actually is. Therefore, avoid both at least a day ahead of the laser hair removal.

Water can help your skin to remain moist days before the appointment so that it is just right for treatment. Alcohol makes skin dehydrated thus, not very responsive to laser treatment and prone to irritation.

7. Tell All Medications and Medical Conditions.

Some medications like antibiotics, acne treatments, hormone therapies, etc., may have a photosensitizing effect on your skin; that means it is more likely to exhibit adverse effects when taken during laser treatment. So make sure that you disclose everything you are getting into the consultation process.

Your technician needs to know your full medical history, including conditions like PCOS or any hormonal imbalances that might affect hair growth. Open communication is a crucial part of following proper pre laser hair removal instructions and avoiding complications.

8. Dress Comfortably and Leave Out Makeup or Lotions

On the day of appointment you should wear loose and breathable clothing to prevent an irritation post treatment. The rubbing of tight clothing with freshly lasered skin would cause redness and discomfort. If doing facial laser hair removal then one should have a clean, makeup free face.

This is true with lotions, deodorants, and perfumes. All of these products might interfere with the effectiveness of the laser or cause adverse skin reactions. Your provider will likely cleanse the area beforehand, but arriving product free is still the best policy before laser hair removal.

9. Time Your Sessions with the Hair Growth Cycle

Sessions are most effective when the hair is in the Anagen phase of active growth. But hairs do not enter this phase simultaneously, and so the sessions must be spaced several weeks apart. This knowledge allows your technician to time your treatment sessions with your hair growth cycle. Well timed sessions will enhance long term results while minimizing the amount of sessions required.  If you’re wondering what to do before laser hair removal, knowing the importance of timing is high on the list.

10. Set Realistic Expectations and Budget Accordingly

Laser hair removal is not a one trip affair. Realistically, 6 to 8 sessions will be necessary for most people to achieve the desired results, with the possibility of needing annual touch ups. Area size, geographic location, and skill level of the clinic all factor into price variability.

The results can be life changing, yet the point is to have realistic expectations. Laser hair removal may not permanently eliminate every hair, but it will drastically minimize hair density and regrowth. Having an understanding of what lies ahead is part of the smart preparation for laser hair removal.

Preparing properly before laser hair removal isn’t just about getting better results—it’s about protecting your skin and making sure your investment pays off. All the way from avoidance of the sun to ensuring the right skincare products to use, everything matters. Follow the above explained tricks, and trust me, you’ll be feeling confident, informed, and prep up for your appointment.

No matter if you’re preparing for your first laser treatment or trying to get everything on track again after a break, preparing for it isn’t that easy. With careful planning and preparation, laser hair removal can go on to become one of the best beauty decisions you’ve ever made.

Do you love your skin? If the answer is no, you’ve come to the right place. Secret™ RF is a cutting-edge skin rejuvenation treatment that combines the power of microneedling and radiofrequency energy to remedy many of the most common skin flaws. 

It’s a versatile technology that delivers results like skin tightening, scar treatment, and more — all without invasive cosmetic procedures. Our team at Elite Women’s Care offers customizable solutions for skin, and here are four common skin issues that Secret RF can treat.

1. Loose or sagging skin

As you age, your skin naturally loses elasticity because it stops producing as much collagen as it did in your younger years. This is a major cause of fine lines and sagging skin, particularly around your eyes, nose, and mouth.

The good news? That softer, creasing skin doesn’t have to leave you feeling less confident in your appearance. 

Secret RF uses fractional radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production deep within your skin. Over time, boosted collagen production tightens and firms skin so you notice fewer wrinkles.

2. Stretch marks

Stretch marks are common if you have experienced rapid changes in weight, growth spurts, or pregnancy. There are lots of topical lotions, creams, and serums promising to minimize stretch marks, but the marks actually a type of scar that requires specialized care.

Secret RF minimizes the appearance of stretch marks by remodeling your skin’s underlying structure. The microneedles create tiny channels in your skin, while the radiofrequency energy promotes new collagen and elastin formation, smoothing and fading those stretch marks over time.

3. Scars (acne or otherwise)

Scars from acne, surgery, or injury can linger long after the initial wound has healed. And if those scars are on your face or another visible part of your body, they can seriously affect your confidence.

Secret RF targets scar tissue by breaking it down and encouraging your skin’s natural healing process. The combination of microneedling and RF energy improves skin’s texture over time, reducing the appearance of scars and blending them more seamlessly with surrounding skin.

4. Uneven texture and tone

Uneven skin tone, large pores, and rough texture can interfere with makeup application and affect your self-esteem. Secret RF addresses these issues by resurfacing your skin at a cellular level. 

The treatment works to shrink pores, even skin tone, and give you a smoother skin texture for a more radiant and youthful appearance.

What to expect during your Secret RF consultation

Are you ready to discover how Secret RF could transform your skin? Your journey begins with a personalized consultation at Elite Women’s Care. During your first visit, we examine your skin, assess your skin type, discuss your concerns, and help you define your aesthetic.

Then we create a customized treatment plan that addresses the skin imperfections that bother you the most. Secret RF is a good option for many of the most common skin issues, because it’s effective and minimally invasive. 

There’s little to no downtime, and most people see noticeable improvements after just one session.

From sagging skin to stubborn scars, Secret RF is a powerful tool to revitalize your skin. Schedule a consultation at our clinic in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, to find out how we can help you achieve the smoother and more vibrant skin you crave. Call us at 847-781-1894 or book online today.

As your largest organ and a first line of defense against harmful germs and traumatic injuries, your skin takes a real beating in its quest to protect you. Ensuring your skin stays healthy isn’t just about looking good — it’s about maintaining that important barrier and protecting your health.

While some over-the-counter products can help with simple tasks, like reducing dryness or itching, most of these products can’t provide the deep protection your skin needs to stay healthy. That’s where medical-grade skincare products can help.

Medical-grade skincare products are designed to support skin health, featuring ingredients tailored to your skin’s unique needs. The key to getting the most benefits is to work with a provider who knows your skin type, medical history, and lifestyle factors so your skincare regimen can be customized for your unique needs.

At Elite Women’s Care in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, we offer an array of medical-grade skincare products and custom-tailored skincare therapies based on each individual’s skin health profile. Here’s why they recommend medical-grade skincare products. 

Quick facts about medical-grade skincare

When it comes to selecting products for your skin, it’s easy to get confused. Skincare products can be found at nearly every store, from drugstores to department stores to general retailers to grocery stores, filling shelves with literally hundreds of options. 

Having many options might seem like a good thing, but it can make choosing products a lot more complicated. What’s more, every product contains a different list of ingredients, and not all of those ingredients are good for your skin. Many ingredients in off-the-shelf skincare products can irritate skin or worsen an existing problem.

Medical-grade skincare products are designed by medical professionals based on the “science of skin.” These products feature ingredients that have proven their worth in skincare while eliminating harmful or irritating substances.

Benefits of medical-grade products

Medical-grade skincare offers plenty of benefits, but one of the most significant advantages involves the quality of ingredients. These products use active ingredients clinically proven to benefit the skin and at higher concentrations than those found in over-the-counter products. 

Another benefit: While off-the-shelf products can affect the most superficial layers of your skin, medical-grade products are designed to penetrate the deeper layers, where most damage occurs. As a result, medical-grade skincare products improve not only your skin’s looks and feels but also your skin’s health.

Medical-grade skincare products support a custom approach to skincare, with products developed specifically for specific issues, like fine lines, sagging skin, acne, rosacea, and other concerns. Used on their own or in combination with medical treatments or our line of signature facials, medical-grade skincare products offer tailored therapy designed for long-term effectiveness and beautiful results.

Finally, because of their added strength and concentrated formulas, medical-grade skincare products are only available through your doctor. That’s a significant benefit because it means your skin care regimen will be based on your skin’s unique challenges, including factors like your age, gender, lifestyle, and overall health. And, of course, you’ll have ongoing medical support and guidance from our team.

Enjoy beautiful skin at every age

Like every part of your body, your skin changes as you age, which means its needs change, too. Medical-grade skincare products recommended by our team ensure your skin gets what it needs to stay healthy and look its best at every stage of life.

To learn more about medical-grade skincare products and their pivotal role in your skincare routine, call the office or request a consultation online. 

As we add more candles to our birthday cakes, signs of aging can sneak up on us. Women especially feel the pressure to preserve the appearance of youth, so natural facial changes that are just part of life can be emotionally distressing. 

Plastic surgery continues to grow in popularity globally, but what if you want to rejuvenate your skin with less extreme measures?

Here at Elite Women’s Care, we’re passionate about helping women feel healthy and beautiful inside and out. If you’re looking to address facial aging in a noninvasive way and improve overall skin health, you may love our Secret™ RF skin tightening treatment.

Skin tightening with Secret RF 

Secret RF, a product of global aesthetics company Cutera®, combines microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) technology to optimize outcomes with minimal downtime and side effects. 

At our practice in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, our providers have seen patients enjoy incredible results using Secret RF treatment to address their fine lines and wrinkles. 

Radiofrequency

In an aesthetic setting, radiofrequency treatment uses heat to penetrate deeply into the skin and trigger collagen and elastin production. It’s a safe and effective way to resolve more complex skin issues, such as skin laxity and volume loss, associated with loss of collagen as we age.

Microneedling

Microneedling involves using fine needles to create tiny punctures in the skin’s surface, micro-injuries that trigger healing by producing collagen. It also allows the RF energy to penetrate deeper and treat the skin more effectively.

Microneedling has been popular for years due to its effectiveness in improving skin texture, reducing the appearance of scars, and minimizing pore size. It’s also fantastic at addressing signs of aging at the skin’s surface, like fine lines and wrinkles.

The best of both worlds

The magic of our skin tightening treatment is it provides the benefits of both approaches with fewer appointments and less investment than if you scheduled RF and microneedling treatments separately.

Because both treatments are noninvasive and involve minimal discomfort and downtime, we usually recommend Secret RF as the most efficient option. We can help determine if you’re a good candidate for Secret RF treatment during a consultation with our team.

What to expect 

We tailor your treatment plan to your current skin condition and desired results. For example, we can target treatment if you have specific areas with more prominent lines or acne scarring. 

You also receive specific guidance on how many treatments we think may benefit you and how best to space your treatments. In general, we recommend at least three treatment sessions 1-2 months apart. 

While you may see improvements right away, full results appear after multiple treatment sessions. To maintain long-term results, we may also recommend annual treatments. 

Secret RF skin tightening treatment is quick and easy, usually taking around 20 minutes. You may experience slight inflammatory discomfort during and for about a day after the procedure, but we apply a topical numbing agent, so the procedure is relatively painless. 

You can resume your daily activities right after, but keep an eye on your skin sensitivity after the procedure and take extra care to wear SPF daily when out in the sun. 

If you’d like more information on Secret RF treatment, other aesthetic treatments, or our OB/GYN services, we’d love to chat with you! Contact us by phone or online today.

Laser hair removal is life-changing. Patients tell our medical esthetics team that all the time here at Elite Women’s Care in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, and it’s easy to understand why.

No more shaving, painful nicks, or ingrown hairs—just silky smooth skin year-round. What’s not to love?

In fact, laser hair removal is so loved that 757,000 procedures are conducted in the United States annually. 

If you’re still wondering whether laser hair removal is right for you, read on and then decide. In this month’s blog, the Elite Women’s Care team breaks down everything you need to know about this amazing treatment.

What to expect at your laser hair removal appointment

Your Elite Women’s Care provider passes a device across the treatment area. This device transmits a laser beam that travels through the skin to your hair follicles. The penetrating energy heats the root of the hair, destroying the follicle and preventing future hair growth. 

Most patients find treatment easy to tolerate. Each laser pulse feels like a quick and mild rubber band snap. 

Before coming in, you need to shave the treatment area fully, but no waxing or plucking hairs. The hair follicle must be in place for the laser to work.

Sessions take five minutes to an hour, depending on each treatment area’s size and hair density.

Laser energy destroys only actively growing hair follicles, not dormant ones. Generally, only 10 percent of hair follicles are in a growth or anagen phase at one time. So, several treatments, spaced about four to eight weeks apart, are needed for optimal hair removal. 

We use the best in class technology

At Elite Women’s Care, we use the best-in-class Soprano Titanium laser. Its unique 3D applicator features an especially large spot size of 4cm²  for faster treatments. The Soprano Titanium also continuously cools the skin, delivering a comfortable experience throughout the session.

From where can I remove hair?

The most common body areas for laser hair removal are:

• Legs
• Bikini area
• Arms and underarms
• Back
• Chest and shoulders
• Upper lip and chin
• Side of the face
• Neck

The number of necessary treatments depends on the size and hair density of the treatment area.

Is laser hair removal safe?

Laser hair removal is very safe in the hands of an experienced healthcare professional like those at Elite Woman’s Care. However, some individuals are not candidates for treatment. You may be advised not to have the procedure if you:

• Are pregnant
• Are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments
• Have genital herpes or are prone to cold sore
• Have keloid scars (raised scars)
• Have or have had skin cancer

If you’re uncertain whether laser hair treatment is appropriate for you,  book a consultation with an Elite Women’s Care expert. 

What results can I expect?

After a series of six to eight treatments, patients generally enjoy about 90 percent permanent hair loss and return for yearly touch-ups.

Ready to get started?  Take the plunge, and you’ll wonder why you waited so long.

Book a consultation for laser hair removal today. Call the office or request an appointment online. 

Aging gracefully is a goal for many, but as the years pass, the skin naturally begins to lose its elasticity and volume. Skin tightening vs fillers is a common debate among those looking for nonsurgical solutions to combat aging. While both treatments aim to rejuvenate the skin, they work in different ways and offer distinct benefits. Understanding their differences can help determine which option is best for your unique skincare needs.

With advancements in cosmetic dermatology, nonsurgical options for facial rejuvenation have become increasingly popular. Whether you want to restore youthful fullness or tighten loose skin, choosing the right treatment can feel overwhelming. By exploring the effectiveness of skin tightening and fillers, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aesthetic goals and lifestyle.

Understanding Skin Tightening

Skin tightening treatments are designed to improve skin elasticity and firmness by stimulating collagen production. These procedures use various technologies, such as ultrasound, radiofrequency, and laser therapy, to promote the body’s natural healing response. Unlike facial fillers, which add volume, skin tightening treatments focus on lifting and firming sagging skin.

Some of the most popular noninvasive skin tightening treatments include:

• Ultherapy – Uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production deep within the skin.
• Radiofrequency treatments (e.g., Thermage) – Utilize heat to encourage collagen remodeling.
• Laser therapies (e.g., Fraxel) – Target the skin’s surface to improve texture and firmness over time.

Benefits of skin tightening treatments include:

• Gradual and natural looking results that improve over several months.
• Minimal downtime with little to no recovery period.
• Long term collagen stimulation for ongoing improvement.

Skin tightening is an excellent choice for those looking for long term wrinkle reduction and sagging skin solutions. While results take time to develop, they can last for years with proper skincare maintenance. However, this option may not be ideal for individuals who have significant volume loss, as it does not add plumpness to the skin.

The Power of Facial Fillers

Facial fillers, also known as dermal fillers, are injectables designed to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Made primarily of hyaluronic acid, collagen, or calcium hydroxylapatite, these fillers provide instant results by adding volume beneath the skin’s surface.

For those dealing with deep wrinkles, hollow cheeks, or thinning lips, facial fillers offer a quick and effective nonsurgical facelift. Unlike skin tightening treatments, fillers do not stimulate collagen production but instead replace lost volume directly. Popular brands such as:

• Juvederm – Known for its smooth consistency and long lasting effects.
• Restylane – Ideal for fine lines and lip enhancement.
• Radiesse – Contains calcium based microspheres for added structure and collagen stimulation.

Advantages of facial fillers include:

• Instant results that can be seen immediately after treatment.
• Customizable solutions tailored to individual facial structure.
• Non permanent options that can be adjusted or dissolved if needed.

A key advantage of fillers is their immediate effect. Patients typically see visible improvements right after treatment, with results lasting anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler used. However, since fillers do not address skin laxity, they may not be the best solution for those experiencing severe sagging.

Comparing Effectiveness: Which One Works Better?

When it comes to skin tightening vs fillers, the effectiveness of each treatment depends on individual skin concerns. Skin tightening is ideal for individuals with mild to moderate sagging who want a natural lift without adding volume. On the other hand, fillers are better suited for those with volume loss who need immediate enhancement.

For individuals looking for long lasting results without frequent maintenance, skin tightening treatments may be the better option. While they take time to show full results, they provide ongoing collagen stimulation, leading to gradual and sustained improvements. In contrast, fillers offer a fast transformation but require routine touch ups to maintain results.

Combining Treatments for Optimal Results

For many individuals, the best approach is not choosing between skin tightening vs fillers, but rather combining both treatments for optimal facial rejuvenation. By using skin tightening procedures to improve elasticity and fillers to restore lost volume, patients can achieve a comprehensive anti aging effect.

This combined approach, often called a “liquid facelift,” provides benefits such as:

• Improved skin elasticity from tightening treatments.
• Instant volume restoration with fillers.
• Natural looking rejuvenation without surgery.
• Balanced facial harmony by addressing both volume loss and skin laxity.

Consulting with a board certified dermatologist or cosmetic specialist can help determine the best combination of treatments for individual goals.

Choosing the Right Treatment for You

Deciding between skin tightening and facial fillers depends on several factors, including age, skin type, and desired results. If your primary concern is loose, sagging skin, skin tightening treatments may be the most effective choice. However, if volume loss is your main issue, fillers will provide a more immediate improvement.

Consider these key factors before making a decision:

• Budget – Skin tightening can be more expensive initially but lasts longer.
• Maintenance – Fillers require touchups every 6-24 months.
• Downtime – Skin tightening has minimal downtime, while fillers may cause temporary swelling or bruising.
• Desired results – If you prefer gradual enhancement, skin tightening is ideal; for instant changes, fillers work best.

Weighing these factors carefully will help in making an informed decision that aligns with both aesthetic goals and lifestyle.

Finding the Best Solution for You

Ultimately, the debate between skin tightening vs fillers comes down to personal needs and expectations. Both treatments offer unique benefits, and understanding their differences can help in making an informed decision. Whether you’re looking for subtle collagen stimulation or dramatic volume enhancement, there’s a solution tailored to your skin’s needs.

For those hesitant to choose between the two, combining both treatments can provide the best of both worlds. Consulting with a qualified professional will ensure that you receive a customized treatment plan designed to enhance your natural beauty while addressing your specific aging concerns.

Aging gracefully is possible with the right approach. Whether you opt for skin tightening, fillers, or a combination of both, modern cosmetic treatments offer effective solutions for maintaining youthful, radiant skin without the need for surgery.