Emirates Woman speaks to Founder of Ivory Aesthetics Clinic, Shohreh Bagherian on the benefits of using laser for smooth skin

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?

My morning routine starts with a celery juice and checking my emails. After this, I start my skincare routine, which is lighter and not as intense as my nighttime routine. I
spray rosewater on my face and apply a serum depending on how my skin feels. This will be either a hydration serum or antioxidant serum for protection. Then I apply a hydrating moisturizer, eye cream and SPF50.

How did you know it was the right time to launch Ivory Aesthetics Clinic and which steps previously led you to this path?

Since I was young, I have dreamt of giving good energy to people. I studied beauty and I started my passion from a very small room in my house and ended up growing so fast that I could not accommodate everyone and decided to move out of the house and open a small place. This small place grew into a very serious professional establishment. Ivory Clinic is now ten years old.

What is the DNA of the brand?

At Ivory Aesthetics we always strive to maintain a high level of professionalism in all aspects of how we operate, from the qualifications of our team to the quality
of our service and the cleanliness and safety of our facility. What sets us apart from other clinics is our patient-centric care. We prioritise the needs and concerns of our patients, providing them with personalized care to address their unique goals and concerns. Our mission and purpose, is to stay up to date with the latest technology and techniques in the market, continually seeking to improve our services and stay ahead of the curve. We approach our clients with empathy and understanding, we take the time to listen and to make them comfortable.

How challenging has it been to stay ahead of the curve in such a fast-paced industry?

Staying ahead of the curve in the fast-paced aesthetic industry can be quite challenging, as new treatments, technologies and techniques are constantly being developed and introduced. We need to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field if we want to remain competitive and continue to attract clients. We invest in ongoing training and education for our team to ensure that they are knowledgeable and skilled in the latest techniques and treatments. It is important for us to differentiate ourselves from other clinics by offering unique and innovative treatments. This includes customizing treatments to meet the specific needs of individual clients, or developing proprietary treatments that can’t be found elsewhere. I believe that these attributes help us maintain our position as leader in the industry. In Dubai especially, the competition is so high, but we
strive to focus on our own quality and strengths, and always share with our clients our experience and knowledge.

What are the benefits of laser for hair removal?

Benefits of laser hair removal is to target hair follicles with precision, without damaging the surrounding skin. To treat large areas of the body quickly and efficiently, with multiple treatments, laser hair removal can provide long-lasting results, with many clients experiencing permanent hair reduction, reduced risk of ingrown hairs, unlike shaving or waxing, it reduces the risk of ingrown hairs and skin irritations. You will also notice the improvement of your skin quality.

How many sessions do you need to be completely hair free?

The number of sessions required for laser hair removal to achieve complete hair removal varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including your hair type, hair colour, skin colour, and the specific area being treated. On average, most individuals require a series of multiple sessions to achieve long-termhair reduction. Typically, you can expect to undergo anywhere from 6 to 12 sessions spaced several weeks apart for optimal results. However, it’s important to note that complete hair removal may not be achievable for everyone, as laser hair removal typically leads to significant hair reduction rather than permanent hair elimination. Some fine or lighter hairs may persist, but they are often much finer and less noticeable than before. To get a more accurate estimate and personalized recommendation, it is best to consult with our qualified laser therapist at the clinic. They can assess your specific situation and provide a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

What precautions do you need to take before and after using laser?

Before Laser Hair Removal: Avoid sun exposure: It’s essential to avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least two weeks before your laser hair removal session. Sunburned or tanned skin is more susceptible to side effects like blistering, pigmentation changes, and increased sensitivity. Shave the treatment area: Shave the area to be treated a day or two before your session. This ensures that the laser energy is focused on the hair follicles rather than the surface hair. Avoid waxing, plucking, or electrolysis: Laser hair removal targets the hair follicle, so it’s important to avoid any hair removal methods that disturb the hair root, such as waxing, plucking, or electrolysis, for at least four weeks before the treatment. Avoid certain skincare products: Refrain from using skincare products that contain retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) for a week before the session. These ingredients can make your skin more sensitive and increase the risk of side effects.

After Laser Hair Removal: Protect your skin from the sun: After laser hair removal, your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight. It’s crucial to protect the treated areas by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher whenever you go outside. Covering the treated areas with clothing or using a wide-brimmed hat is also beneficial. Avoid heat exposure: Avoid activities that can increase your body temperature, such as hot baths, saunas, hot tubs, or intense exercise for at least 24 to 48 hours after the treatment. Heat can further irritate the treated skin. Keep the treated area clean: Gently cleanse the treated area with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubs that can irritate the skin. Avoid irritants and exfoliants: For a few days following the treatment, avoid using products that may irritate your skin, such as perfumes, fragrances, exfoliating scrubs, or other harsh chemicals. Let the hair shed naturally: It’s normal for treated hairs to shed in the weeks following the session. Avoid picking, scratching, or plucking the treated area to allow the hair to fall out naturally. Always follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your laser hair removal therapist to ensure the best results and minimize the risk of side effects.

Does laser therapy suit all skin types?

Laser therapy is a versatile treatment option for various skin concerns, but it may not be suitable for all skin types. The effectiveness and safety of laser therapy can vary depending on the specific laser technology used and the individual’s skin type. Laser devices are designed to target specific chromophores (such as melanin in hair follicles or pigmented lesions) or specific components of the skin (such as water, collagen, or blood vessels). The interaction between the laser light and these targets can cause heating or destruction of the targeted tissue. Different skin types have varying amounts of melanin, which determines their skin colour and makes them more or less susceptible to side effects from laser therapy. Generally, individuals with lighter skin tones and darker hair tend to be better candidates for laser treatments. However, advancements in laser technology have allowed for safer and more effective treatments for individuals with darker skin tones as well. It’s important to note that certain types of lasers, such as those targeting melanin, may carry a higher risk of complications for individuals with darker skin. These risks include hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) in the treated areas. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified laser therapist or licensed professional experienced in laser treatments to determine the most suitable approach for your specific skin type and concerns. They will assess your skin type, hair colour, medical history, and other relevant factors to determine if laser therapy is appropriate for you or if an alternative treatment option would be more suitable. They may also adjust the laser settings or choose a specific laser technology that is better suited for your skin type to minimize the risk of complications and maximize the effectiveness of the treatment.

How has social media supported scaling the business?

Social media has allowed us to establish a strong presence in the region and simultaneously reach a broader audience and increased brand visibility. By sharing informative and engaging content, we get to showcaseour expertise, services, and patient results, attracting potential clients and driving traffic to our clinic. Social media also provides an opportunity to build a community, something which is key for every business today.

Have you had any mentors and if so, what advice did they impart?

My mentor has been my desire to learn. I have invested time in learning, growing and establishing a deep knowledge of both the beauty and business side of the industry.

What advice would you give your younger self?

If I could choose to go back to my younger age I would have studied more towards the medical field, not only aesthetics as I believe that everything works together from inside out. External beauty is connected to the internal as well as factors such as hormones, stress and lifestyle.

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Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @jlobeauty @rhode