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The second I got engaged, I put a beauty plan into immediate effect. I call it: “Bridal Beauty Prep for the Big Day.” As someone who has dreamt of this day her whole life… And as someone who has had a long, long journey with their skin (which I go over in detail in this blog post here) I knew exactly the steps I wanted to take to prep for the big day: have a bullet-proof skincare routine, and get laser hair removal, and micro-blading.
My skincare routine hasn’t changed much since I shared this post here – I’ve stuck to my tried-and-true regimen and products! And while laser hair removal or micro-blading certainly aren’t requirements for a bride, I am so glad I did it! Now let me tell you why…
Let's talk laser hair removal!
Ok, now let me just preface by giving you a part of the “why” behind choosing to do laser hair removal before the big day… I am not extremely “hairy” by any means (which can be a little difficult for the laser to detect!) but I am all about efficiency, and boy, has this been such a time-saver!
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is essentially a laser that aims intense pulses of heated light to “destroy” the root of hair follicle it’s targeting. The laser is able to selectively target your hair (instead of your skin) because its drawn to pigment in hair. An ideal treatment candidate has dark hair and fair skin for maximum effectiveness. However, even if you have lighter hair, you can still do the treatment but at an adjusted laser setting.
Laser hair removal doesn’t get rid of hair forever, but it does drastically reduce hair growth—to the point that you can stop shaving altogether. And you can get it done pretty much anywhere on the body, like legs, back, underarms, bikini line, stomach, face… I chose my underarms, legs and bikini area.
Does it hurt?
When it comes to the pain level, I’d say it feels similar to small rubber band snaps. Everyone’s pain-tolerance is different, but for me, it was definitely tolerable and got a little easier with each treatment session. Plus, there’s really no down-time!
If done by an untrained technician, yes – the laser could burn you or scar you. This is why research and going to a reputable place is so important. The team at Shea Aesthetics Clinic was so knowledgable and informative. They gave me a small tour of their medi-spa, showed me the equipment, how it worked, walked me through what it would feel like, talked about important pre and post treatment care information and tips, and even called to check on me after my treatment! I knew I was in good hands and their team was so friendly and welcoming.
How many sessions do you need?
Depending on the area treated, the total number of treatments will vary. Typically, 4-5 treatments spaced 6-8 weeks apart is recommended. But the treatment itself is super quick! For example, a complete treatment on a set of legs can be done in less than 25 minutes. Smaller areas will take less time.
How much does it cost?
Pricing can vary depending on where you go and the size of the treatment area, but on average can cost about $300-$500. For me, this was an investment I was absolutely willing to make. If I add up how much time, money, and water I spend on shaving, then it was just a no-brainer.
Plus, at Shea Aesthetic Clinic, they offer a Laser Hair Removal Membership. This is where you can buy a treatment for one area, get 35% off your second area, 40% off your third area, and plus, get an extra 15% off the rest of their services!
Let's talk microblading!
I recently got my eyebrows microbladed as one of my steps for some pre-wedding beauty prep! The hair on my eyebrows is thick…but super light and fine. So often, I fill them in and it is very time consuming. Honestly, I felt self-conscious when they weren’t filled in or when I didn’t have makeup on. I absolutely love how they turned out and I am so glad I did it!
What is microblading?
Microblading is a tattooing technique by which a certified technician uses a very small blade to place semi-permanent pigment over your existing eyebrows to imitate tiny, hair-like strokes.
How long does it last?
Unlike traditional cosmetic tattooing, it is less invasive and is considered semi-permanent. Microblading typically lasts 1-3 years, depending on skin type and skincare routine. And the procedure itself can take 2-3 hours initially and require a quick touch-up session about 4-6 weeks later.
Does it hurt?
My technician at Shea Aesthetics Clinic used medical-grade numbing ointment so I truly didn’t feel a thing! But when I did my research, some people compared it as being no worse than plucking your eyebrows but much less than getting an actual tattoo. The team at Shea Aesthetics Clinic made me feel super comfortable and relaxed the entire time – I had absolutely no concerns or questions left unanswered!
How much does it cost?
Pricing varies depending on where you go, but can average anywhere from $350-$500. If you ask me how much time and money I spend on filling in my brows… then I would tell you that microblading is worth every penny! I save so much time in the morning not having to fill my brows in as much (just lightly if I get foundation over my brows!) and feel so much more confident without makeup!
So that’s it for my Bridal Beauty Prep, y’all! I am a huge advocate for investing in yourself and doing things that save you time and money in the long run. I’ve loved my experience at Shea Aesthetics Clinic and highly recommend them if you are in the Knoxville/Oak Ridge area!
If you have any questions – don’t hesitate to message me, but I tried to answer what I could!
Thanks for reading, guys! Xo, M
About Madison
I'm Madison - a northern gal planting roots down south. Musings by Madison is your guide to classic style, beauty, home decor & more. Rooted in passion for encouraging others to curate a closet, home, and life they’re proud of and inspired by each day.
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