Candice S.
There are some parts of growing older in our 40s that we expect. Things like gray hair. Maybe a few more laugh lines or the need for reading glasses.
But there are other changes that nobody really prepares us for.
For me, one of those changes was hirsutism. You know, that unwanted facial hair that can begin showing up during perimenopause?
I partnered with Milan Laser for this experience and received complimentary treatment in exchange for sharing my honest experience on Naturally Stellar. As always, all opinions are my own, and I’ll be documenting my journey openly as it progresses.
Why Laser Hair Removal For Perimenopause Facial Hair?
Facial hair is one of those topics women rarely talk about openly, yet so many of us quietly deal with it every day. For me, it was noticing the hair becoming more frequent, and I became so self-conscious about it. Always checking the mirrors to see if the hairs were noticeable or going through tubes of concealer like crazy. I can’t lie, it really did a number on my confidence. And that’s a big no-no.
After years of shaving, hair removal creams, waxing, and trying to stay one step ahead of something that was becoming increasingly frustrating, I finally decided it was time to explore another option. That’s what led me to Milan Laser.
This article isn’t just a review. It’s my personal journey with confidence, perimenopause, and hirsutism.
I’ll be documenting every step of my laser hair removal treatment—from my consultation through each laser session and my long-term results. So, if you’re considering laser hair removal yourself, you’ll know exactly what to expect.
If you’re navigating perimenopause too, I hope this helps you feel a little less alone.
What Is Hirsutism?
The Mayo Clinic defines Hirsutism as… “a condition in women that results in extra growth of dark or coarse hair. The hair growth follows a male-like pattern. It may show up on the face, chest, back, and other body parts where hair usually doesn’t grow on women.”
For women in their late 30s to about mid-50s, hirsutism can be a symptom of hormonal changes, perimenopause, menopause, or PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome).
Mine happens to be a symptom of both perimenopause and hormonal changes that have been happening over the last few years.
The hair growth used to be manageable until I had to undergo risk-reducing surgery for a plum-sized, non-cancerous tumor that was discovered on my right ovary. After my Salpingo-Oopherectomy, which removed my right ovary and fallopian tube, I began to experience an increase in hair growth on my chin and neck. And the hair was growing in thicker!
Why Milan Laser?
I have been researching laser hair removal for quite a while now. I’ve watched countless videos on the process and spent even more countless hours looking up the best options available for women with dark skin. I comparison-shopped for services in my area to get an idea of the cost, scoured Reddit threads for what to look out for, and read through reviews and testimonials of various laser treatment brands until I wore myself out.
Then one day, while minding my own business, Milan Laser reached out to me via their PR agency to offer me the opportunity to try laser treatment on one body area of my choice, with unlimited treatments for life. At first, I thought I was being spammed because brands don’t just offer laser treatments for life without a catch, right?
But it was very real lol. They actually liked my blog and were serious about me sharing my opinion about their services.
Three things that immediately sold me on working with them.
Board certified medical staff
There are board-certified medical professionals on staff at every location, and they have trained RN’s and/or LPN’s operating the equipment during treatments. This is a really big deal!
Nd:YAG laser for dark skin
They have the right lasers to treat darker skin and proven industry expertise in treating Black women with the deepest of skin tones. They even have a section on their website dedicated to the topic of dark skin.
Aligns with my goals
This collaboration aligns perfectly with my goals of helping women over 40 to increase confidence and be empowered to prioritize health and wellness.
Some extra bonuses for me were the lifetime touch-ups and the convenience of being able to go to any of their 410+ locations, anywhere in the country. This means, if I’m visiting another city, I can set an appointment at any one of their locations for my touch-ups.
Consultation Day – July 2
My biggest emotion walking into the consultation was nervousness. Although I’ve done research about laser hair removal procedures, I had a little apprehension about whether this would work for me.
But once I was inside and seated in the waiting area, my nervousness melted away. The staff was wonderful! They were so pleasant and made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked in.
After checking in, I filled out a brief medical history and signed my disclosure documents. Then, I was escorted to the consultation room. Here is where I experienced a brief presentation about the company, their philosophy, and their guarantee for permanent hair removal.
I learned that the reason why Milan Laser can say that they offer permanent results is that most of their clients are up to 95% hair-free due to their unlimited treatments for life offer. That really excited me because I can’t wait to see mine GONE!
Then they showed me some before-and-after photos of actual clients’ treatment areas. I was blown away by photos of a Black woman with hirsutism due to PCOS. Her results were amazing! I was really surprised at the depth of skin tone that the YAG laser could treat.
Next, they explained all about their financing options to make laser hair removal treatments accessible to everyone. I learned that you can apply right in the office, and it takes about 5 minutes. It’s a 100% guaranteed credit approval. They have their own lenders who bid for your business, and it’s a soft pull on your credit report. So, there’s zero impact on your credit score.
Lastly, I asked as many questions as possible for both myself and for anyone who may read this. So, be sure to check those out toward the bottom of this post.
Treatment 1: What it felt like
My 1st treatment began right after my consultation and a quick tour of the clinic. I came in with no makeup, and I stopped shaving a few days prior so I could show the areas that needed the most attention.
I didn’t realize that the area to be treated needs to be totally free of oils, lotions, creams, and hair. So off to the restroom I went to wash my face and shave. They supply everything you’ll need to prep for your session. Plus, anything you’ll need to freshen up afterwards.
My location had deodorant, sunscreen, face wash, razors, Q-tips, aloe vera gel, and wipes.
Back in the treatment room, I met my nurse, Sherry, who went over the important medical info I needed to know, such as potential side effects, etc. She assessed my face and neck first. Then she demonstrated how the laser works (without firing it, of course lol). How it keeps the skin cool during treatment and what I may expect to feel.
Next, she helped me put on some metal safety goggles to protect my eyes. Then she helped me to get comfortable. Because I couldn’t see, the nurse made sure to communicate about each area or gently touch it before she fired the laser. As she moved around my face and neck, she periodically asked about my comfort level.
One misconception I had before this appointment was that it would be painful and I’d leave swollen or red. But it wasn’t bad at all! Each time the laser fired, it felt like the snap of a tiny rubber band. That’s it! And my face looked totally normal with no issues when it was over.
Everything took about 20 minutes. The nurse gave me some aftercare instructions and then some aloe vera and sunscreen for my face and neck.
Finally, before I left, I scheduled my next appointment.
Questions I Had Before Starting & FAQ’s
- Does laser hair removal hurt? Not really. It depends on your personal pain tolerance. For me, the intensity feels like the snap of a tiny rubber band hitting the skin.
- How many treatments will I need? It can take up to 7-10 treatments to see permanent results. Appointments should be scheduled every 5 weeks.
- How much does it cost? That depends on the treatment area. Get a custom quote during your consultation. Milan Laser offers its own financing, at 100% credit approval – guaranteed! Takes 5 mins. Zero impact on your credit score. Payments as low as $45/mo.
- How long does each session take? Took about 20 minutes for my full face and neck, so I guess it depends on the area’s size.
- Is there downtime? I didn’t experience any downtime. I did notice slight changes in my skin a few days after the treatment. Things like tiny little bumps in some areas. About the size of goosebumps. I had 1 or 2 itchy spots near my mustache the following day and some slight blushing on my cheeks on day 3.
- What should I avoid before treatment? You should avoid sun exposure to the treatment areas. No waxing, plucking, or hair removal creams.
- What happens after treatment? The nurse will go over your aftercare. You can then apply aloe vera and sunscreen, if you wish. There are supplies right there in the office for your use, or you can bring your own to your appointment.
Is Milan Laser Worth It?
Stay tuned! I’m not ready to answer this question yet because I want to experience the full treatment plan before sharing my final thoughts.
I’ll Continue Updating this Post
I plan to update this article after each appointment so readers can follow along with my experience in real time. I hope you’ll bookmark this page, subscribe by email, or save one of my Pinterest pin images above, and check back for future updates.
Until next time… Keep reinventing life + light over 40, One Brave Yes at a time!
